Effective May 1st, New Jersey drivers younger than age 21 with probationary licenses with certain restrictions attached must affix a red reflective decal to their license plates to identify their status. Called Kyleigh’s Law, it’s named after 16-year-old Kyleigh D’Alessio who was a passenger killed in a NJ car accident in 2006.
Decals can be purchased for $4 a pair at motor vehicle agencies and must be affixed to the upper left corner of both license plates. Decals can be removed if older drivers are driving the vehicle and can be transferred to a different car if necessary.
The law indicates that the primary purpose is to allow law enforcement to identify motor vehicles being driven by operators on probationary licenses, which are subject to stricter rules under the law. New Jersey drivers under age 21 can be pulled over for driving between the hours of 11 p.m. and 5 a.m. or for carrying too many passengers. These are violations of the Graduated Driver’s License (GDL) provisions. Drivers in this group will face a $100 fine if a red decal is not displayed.
While the law has been met with criticism throughout the state from those who feel the decals unfairly profile this age group, and are a clear indicator to those who might prey on young female drivers in particular, the reality is that until public pressure or other factors influence NJ lawmakers to repeal it, the law is what it is.
Kyleigh’s Law is the first of its kind in the country, and came under a legal challenge for age discrimination. Morristown Superior Court Judge Robert Brennan dismissed a 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."
And as a privilege, driving responsibly ultimately is on the shoulders of the one who is behind the wheel. Drivers of any age need to be in control, understand and obey the motor vehicle laws and demonstrate they take seriously their responsibility to themselves, their passengers and other drivers. The roadways are shared. Here in New Jersey, safe driving is a challenge everyone faces, whatever the driver’s age.
How this law ultimately may lower teen driving accidents and save lives will remain to be seen. Common sense, good driving skills and respect for others on the road are the qualities safe drivers need to have. Ultimately, individual actions are the key factor in accidents that impact our lives and influence auto insurance rates. Laws may help deter unsafe driving, but there’s no substitute for young drivers developing a real appreciation for the responsibilities that come with getting, and keeping, their driving privileges. It may take more than red decals to accomplish that.
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