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Virginia House Bill 1918 is being pushed by Del. Martha Mugler, a government official that represents Virginia’s 91st District. Mugler is collaborating with Tammy Guido, a mother who has a strong drive to prevent future accidents due to her 16-year-old son passing away in a fatal car crash 2 years ago. In addition to Tammy’s son passing, two other 16-year-olds died at the scene. According to officials, the driver was unlicensed and speed was a contributing factor to the crash.
“Through this tragic loss, I just felt compelled to do something,” said Guido. “Somebody needed to stand up and say ‘Enough is enough.’”
Car accidents are the leading cause of death for teenagers, so accidents like these are unfortunately common. Guido and Mugler are hopeful this student driver safety bill will help prevent these accidents from occurring by focusing on improving driver’s education.
Driver’s Education Courses
The student driver safety bill will increase driver’s education for all sophomores and require all students to have a license before receiving a parking pass at their local schools. The bill analyzes how parking passes are typically distributed and is calling for a new uniformed statewide process. The purpose of improving driver’s education courses is to talk about the dangers of speeding to help prevent accidents from occurring.
“Improving driver’s education is almost always beneficial,” said Attorney Seth Carroll of Commonwealth Law Group. “Whether it’s improving driver education for new drivers or providing programs for more experienced drivers, reminding ourselves of the rules of the road is always a good practice to implement for helping drivers stay safe while on the road.”
3-D Driving Drunk & Distracted Program
There is now a 3-D Driving Drunk & Distracted Program that Guido has commended. This program creates a simulation of a terrible car crash and displays the effect it has on friends, family, and other members of the community. The York-Poquoson Sheriff’s Office helps with this program at many York high schools.
In addition to collaborating with a range of officials, Guido is also working with the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) to help improve safety by adding delineators and lighting to the roads.
“There’s nothing I can do to bring Conner back but I can help other people and I need to make sure his name rings throughout eternity,” Guido said.
Risk Factors for Teenagers
Teenagers between the age of 16 and 19 have a higher risk of getting into a motor vehicle crash, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Other teens who are at a very high risk of getting into a car accident include males, teens driving with teen passengers, and newly licensed teens. There are many preventable factors that can put teens at risk. Speeding, distracted driving, and inexperience are a few contributing factors to fatal car crashes.
Contact Us
If you or a loved one has been in an accident, it is best to contact an auto accident lawyer. The attorneys at Commonwealth Law Group are dedicated to promoting safer teen driving and committed to helping anyone throughout their case. Contact us today for a consultation and an evaluation of your case.
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