|
|
Are you a New Driver in Massachusetts or a Parent of a New
Massachusetts Driver?
You should be familiar with the Massachusetts’ Junior Operator Law:
Getting your license is a milestone that brings joy & excitement to the new
operator. It is another indicator that our children are growing into young
adults. It also can bring fear & an emptied bank account to the parents.
Sobering statistics show that three out of every ten 16 year old drivers
will be in a serious crash. Almost one of every five 17 year old drivers
will be in a serious crash. More than one of every ten 18 year old drivers
will be in a serious crash.
As a way to attempt to combat these statistics Massachusetts has strict
Junior Operator rules & regulations. Both Junior Operator & parents should
know what these rules are. Some of these regulations include:
- The Junior Operator may not operate a motor vehicle within the first
six (6) months after receiving a Junior Operator’s License while any
passenger under the age of 18 is in the vehicle (other than the Operator
or an immediate family member/sibling), unless the Junior Operator is
accompanied by a person who is at least 21 years old. This person who is
at least 21 years old must have at least one year of driving experience,
hold a valid driver’s license from Massachusetts or another state, and
must occupy the seat beside the Junior Operator.
- The Junior Operator may not operate a motor vehicle during the hours
of 12:00 am (midnight) to 5:00 am unless accompanied by a parent or
legal guardian.
Parents will want to talk with their new operators about the
privilege, dangers & responsibilities of driving a motor vehicle.
Practice with your new operator, buckle up & remember to drive safely!
Click here for a copy of the Massachusetts’
Junior Operator Law (pdf)
brochure.
|
