The Graduated Licensing System

Nowadays a widespread discussion about the problem of young drivers has taken place among Australian public. Concerning the disproportionately high number of young casualties and the continuous road accidents involving teenagers, police, parents, experts, young people, and other public express their opinions about how to tackle this severe problem. Some of them claim that laws and restrictions should be reinforced as they are the most effective way, while others argue that more resources should be committed into education. Undoubtedly, we should try any possible method that might help reduce the death and injuries of young drivers. But after all, laws and restrictions are the most fundamental solution.

The characteristics of young drivers require corresponding laws and restrictions. According to a senior research fellow of Monash University, some young people are physically immature because the human brain may not be completely mature until 30 (Reid, 2010). Therefore immature young drivers are more likely to make imprudent judgments and ignore the possible consequences when fueled by emotions and impulse. In
Like adults, adolescents seek for social acceptance as well. In some particular circles, dangerous driving is deemed an honorable feat. What’s more, Australian’s drinking culture also contributes to the high rate of fatal accidents among teenagers. Therefore, we urgently need legislations focusing on these external factors. The Graduated Licensing System , which was introduced in 2007, restricts blood – alcohol level to 0 for P – Platers (Ricci, 2010). And Anti – Hoon Legislation implemented in 2006 authorizes police to confiscate cars for dangerous driving, such as “ burn – out” , “doughnut”,etc (Ricci, 2010). Such restrictions and legislations are no more than proper measures to the negative influence of social circles and drinking