National Safety Council Applauds Rep. Hultgren Action to Protect Illinois Motorists

ITASCA, IL--April 29, 2011: The National Safety Council applauds Rep. Randy Hultgren (R-IL) for being the lead Republican sponsor of H.R. 1515, the Safe Teen and Novice Driver Uniform Protection (STANDUP) Act. The STANDUP Act urges all states to adopt Graduated Driver Licensing laws that meet specific teen driving minimum requirements.

“Every day, 15 people die in motor vehicle crashes involving teen drivers including teens, their passengers, people in other vehicles and pedestrians. The STANDUP Act encourages states to pass stronger GDL laws, which are proven to reduce teen driving crashes by up to 40 percent.”

Motor vehicle crashes are the No. 1 cause of death for teen drivers, killing more teens than the next three leading causes of death combined: homicide, suicide and disease. In 2009, approximately 3,000 teens were killed, and more than 350,000 people 15 to 19 years old were injured in crashes involving teen drivers.

"Teen driving safety has become a national public safety issue," said Janet Froetscher, president and CEO of the National Safety Council. "Every day, 15 people die in motor vehicle crashes involving teen drivers including teens, their passengers, people in other vehicles and pedestrians. The STANDUP Act encourages states to pass stronger GDL laws, which are proven to reduce teen driving crashes by up to 40 percent."

"Rep. Hultgren's support of this legislation is a critical step in the right direction," Froetscher said. "It's time for the public to do their part by contacting their representatives and encouraging immediate passage of the STANDUP Act. This is a piece of legislation that parents and communities support. It will save countless lives."

The National Safety Council (National Safety Council) saves lives by preventing injuries and deaths at work, in homes and communities, and on the roads through leadership, research, education and advocacy.

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