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More limits needed for teen drivers

Nearly one in five traffic accidents in Ohio involves a teenage driver. Thirteen percent of the fatal crashes include teen motorists.

The numbers are far out of proportion to the percentage (5) of Buckeye State drivers who are teens. And the grim statistics – even aside from the common sense knowledge that more experienced, mature drivers are less likely to have accidents – point to a policy imperative for state legislators.

Some limits have been in place since 2007. For example, the hours during which teens can be on the road legally are restricted (the curfew for 17-year-olds is 1 a.m.).

Lawmakers are considering new limits on teen drivers. Those 16-17 years old would not be permitted to carry passengers unless an adult family member also is in the vehicle. Drivers in the same age group would not be permitted to be on public roads after 10 p.m.

Some tinkering with the proposal makes sense. Under some circumstances, allowing teen drivers to be out past 10 p.m. may make sense.

But placing new limits on teen motorists is a good idea. It will save lives.

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