Tough Rules Reduce Accidents

According to insurance company figures, British Columbia's enhanced graduated licensing regulations prevented over 17,000 accidents and saved 31 lives between 2003 and 2006.

British Columbia has introduced upgraded regulations to extend the novice and learner stages, raise the age for drivers needing supervisors, and limit passengers for new drivers.

The new rules will be introduced in January 2010.  Young drivers will be banned from using both hand-held and hands-free cellphones or electronic devices while driving.  Younger drivers aged 16-24 are more likely to be distracted by phones or MP3 players because of their inexperience at the wheel, according to the insurance company for B.C. drivers.

I wonder why more experienced drivers are immune from the distraction of hands-free devices?

There will be more restrictions coming in future years, but this is a good start in preventing needless automobile injury and death - and in restraining insurance premium increases necessary to pay damages to those injured by negligent driving.  Government in Newfoundland and Labrador should take note.