New Jersey drivers under the age of 21 with probationary licenses and certain restrictions will be required to have a red reflective decal on their license plates to identify their status. The first law of its kind in the country, Kyleigh’s Law, is named after 16-year-old Kyleigh D’Alessio who was a passenger killed in a 2006 NJ car accident. The law goes into effect May 1st.
Sponsors of the legislation maintain that the law will encourage young drivers to obey the laws and will allow the police to identify drivers with probationary licenses. These licenses have strict rules. Drivers under the age of 21 can be pulled over for driving between the hours of 11 PM and 5 AM or for carrying too many passengers, both of which are violations of the Graduated Driver’s License (GDL) provisions. There is a fine of $100 if a red decal is not on their license plates.
Decals cost $4 for a pair and must be purchased at motor vehicle agencies. The decals need to be affixed to the upper left corner of both license plates and can be removed if older drivers are operating the vehicle. Decals can also be transferred to another car.
Coming under intense challenge on its way to being passed, Kyleigh’s Law has been criticized as unfairly profiling young drivers. Opponents are also concerned that the decals will be a clear sign to those who might prey on young female drivers in particular.
Those who are against the law also consider it age discrimination and lobbied for its defeat. However, Morristown Superior Court Judge Robert Brennan dismissed an early lawsuit in March, saying, "Operating a motor vehicle is not a right, it’s a privilege subject to state regulations. Kyleigh’s Law does not violate the constitutions of the United States or New Jersey." Until public pressure or other factors influence lawmakers to repeal it, it is the law and young drivers will have to comply.
Driving is a privilege and ultimately driving responsibly rests on the shoulders of the person behind the wheel, whatever their age. Drivers need to understand and obey the laws and realize that they also have a responsibility to their passengers and other drivers on the roads shared by all.
The intent of Kyleigh’s Law is to lower teen driving accidents and save lives. Safe drivers need to have common sense, good driving skills and respect for others on the road. Ultimately, individual actions behind the wheel are the key factors in accidents that impact our lives and influence auto insurance rates. Some laws may help deter unsafe driving, but the real challenge is for young drivers to accept personal responsibility and respect the privileges that come with having a driver’s license. It’s too soon to tell right now how public sentiment will evolve on the red decal law.
Other Informational Links:
http://www.nj.com/news/index.ssf/2010/03/nj_officials_reveal_kyleighs_l.html
http://www.nj.com/news/index.ssf/2010/03/motor_vehicles_unveils_red_dec.html
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