The objective of this research review was to determine whether graduated driver licensing (GDL) systems and night-time curfews reduce motor vehicle crashes, fatalities, or injuries among young drivers. Seven studies met the inclusion criteria. Two independent studies of the New Zealand graduated licensing program found a sustained 7%-8% reduction in teen driver crash injuries attributable to the program. No other full graduated licensing system has been evaluated to date. Four studies of either a general curfew or a night-time driving restriction for teens, a key element of graduated licensing, found substantial crash reductions during restricted hours, with 23%-25% lower crash injury and fatality rates for curfews beginning prior to midnight. One study found no change in late night crashes before and after a 1 a.m.-6 a.m. night driving restriction took effect. The logic and empirical bases for graduated licensing are sound. Moreover, there is evidence that one central element, a restriction on night-time driving by novices, reduces young driver crashes. However, a definitive conclusion about the effectiveness of GDL systems for reducing motor vehicle crashes or crash-related injuries must await examination of other GDL systems. (A)
Abstract