New Year, new license laws

While welcoming in the New Year, parents should become acquainted with and remind hopeful young motorists about changes for youths who are acquiring a driver's license in 2010.

On July 1, 2009, the State of Indiana implemented new Graduated Drivers Licensing (GDL) requirements for probationary drivers under the age 18.

Because young drivers are at greater risk for crashes and fatalities, the state created specific restrictions to help teens safely travel Indiana's roadways.

Those under age 18, who get a probationary driver's license on or after July 2009, may not drive with passengers for the first 180 days after obtaining the license unless accompanied by a licensed instructor, an individual with a valid Indiana driver's license who is 25 years or older, or a legal guardian who is 21 years or older.

After July 2009, a driver who obtains a probationary driver's license will not qualify for court diversion programs.

Drivers under age 18, who get an Indiana driver's license after July 2009, will have the following restrictions:

* The use of telecommunication devices of any type while driving, except to make emergency 911 calls, will not be allowed,

* They may not drive between 10 p.m.-5 a.m. for 180 days after receiving their license, and

* After the 180 days, drivers under age 18 may not drive during Sunday-Thursday, 11 p.m.-5 a.m., and Friday-Saturday, 1-5 a.m. However, they may drive at any time if traveling to or from work, school and religious event, or if accompanied by an individual with a valid Indiana driver's license who is 25 years or older.

Drivers under age 18 may drive with their child, sibling, or spouse during the hours allowed by law.

For more information about Graduated Drivers Licensing or young driver safety, visit www.in.gov/cji.

Thank you, and remember to drive safely during the winter weather months.

Michael W. Heaton

Clay County Sheriff

611 E. Jackson St.

Brazil, IN 47834

812-446-2535 Ext: 5