New Law Gets Tough on Teen Drivers

By Alison Gonzalez

Published on May 05, 2008

Under the new law, which takes effect in August, teenagers who are pulled over for driving recklessly, under the influence, or more than 20 mph over the speed the limit will have their license automatically taken away. They can get their license back after 48 hours if a parent accompanies them and signs for it.

The law also moves teenage curfew one hour earlier to 11 p.m. and doubles the amount of behind-the-wheel instruction. In addition, parents must attend driving classes with their children, a controversial move that aims to promote parental involvement and empowerment, according to Sen. John A. Kissel.

The new law also doubles the length of time for passenger limitations that are under the current law, including not being able to carry passengers under age 20 for the first six months of having the license.

The law is a move to reduce the number of teens lost in car accidents.

Connecticut has lost too many teen drivers, Rell said, and signing this into law is a major turning point in the efforts to protect our young drivers.

Last year, 15 teenagers died in car crashes in Connecticut, seven of which were killed from January to March of this year.