Young motorists would face new restrictions on when and with whom they can drive, under legislation being considered in the Ohio House of Representatives.
Proponents say the tougher rules would help protect 16- and 17-year-olds, who are statistically more likely to die in a car crash.
Under House Bill 204, drivers with a probationary license would generally not be allowed to drive without a parent present between the hours of 10 p.m. and 5 a.m. The bill allows exceptions for work or school activities.
Currently, state law prohibits 16-year-olds from driving without a parent between midnight and 6 a.m.; a similar curfew for 17-year-olds lasts from 1 a.m. until 5 a.m.
The legislation also specifies that drivers younger than 18 can only have one non-family passenger in the vehicle, and that person must be at least 21 and have a valid driver’s license. Exceptions would be made is if a parent or guardian is in the car or if the passengers are family members.
A third change would require all passengers to wear seat belts when a driver younger than 18 is behind the wheel. The final part of the bill states that any minor found guilty of a moving violation can only drive with a parent or guardian present until they turn 18.
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