Young drivers face stiffer penalties starting today

March 31, 2007

Tough, new junior operator penalties go into effect today, including increased suspensions and expensive fines and reinstatement costs, even for first-time offenders.

The new law is meant to create a zero-tolerance environment for speeding or other unsafe driving by teenagers, state officials said.

The new penalties apply to violations involving passenger and nighttime-driving restrictions, speeding, and negligent or reckless operation while the driver holds a learner's permit or junior operating license.

New driver training requirements start on Sept. 1.

The new Junior Operator's law was enacted in January. The law was last changed in 1998.

Speeding tickets

(up from $50 fine)

Suspend license 90 days.

$50 fine.

Completion of State Courts Against Road Rage program.

Completion of an attitudinal retraining course.

$500 reinstatement fee.

Escalating fines for violations of more than 10 miles per hour:
— $10 for each mile per hour over the limit.
— 50 surcharge.

Training requirements

Beginning Sept. 1, drivers with a learner’s permit must:

Spend at least 40 hours driving with a parent or adult (up from 12 hours).

Spend 12 hours behind the wheel in driver education classes (up from 6 hours).

MAC DANIEL