This report investigates the interaction between the minimum driver licensing age and the casualty accident involvement rates of young drivers, using data from all Australian states. Accident involvement rates were corrected to control for differences between States in levels of safety and accident reporting rates. Cumulative involvement rates were examined. It was found that in other States the additional accidents resulting from allowing persons to drive below age 18 were not offset by their lower accident rates at ages 18-20. The study concludes that Victoria's higher licensing age results in a nett road safety benefit even though the accident involvement rate of 18 and 19 year old drivers in Victoria is generally higher than that of first and second year drivers in other States.
Samenvatting