A NEW ‘safer’ driving law could see motorists forced to fork out $400 to obtain their driver’s license.
The new rule, which is set to take effect at the beginning of September, could have a negative effect on the economy, according to experts.
The new rule, is set to take effect at the beginning of September[/caption]
Currently, 16- 17 year old in the sate of Ohio must complete 24 hours of classroom training, eight hours with a driving teacher and 50 hours of driving with an adult over 21 to obtain a license.
These classes can cost drivers up to $400.
However, under a new state law, 18-20 year olds will no longer be able to bypass these requirements.
Explaining the reason behind the rule change Governor Mike DeWine said: “We know young people who go through driver’s training become safer drivers.
“So many young people turning 18 never taking driver’s training and they go in and ultimately – sometimes after many failures – pass.”
However, the Ohio Chamber of Commerce has warned that the new law could affect the economy, as more 18-20 year olds may be unable to secure transportation, meaning they could be kept out of the job market.
In rural areas with few driving schools, the training could be even harder to access.
Some have raised concerns that the move will force people to drive illegally just to make ends meet.
However supporters argue it’s about safety, flagging that under-25s are far more likely to crash.
Driving instructors say they’re bracing for a surge in demand once the law kicks in and parents are scrambling to find openings in local courses before the deadline hits.
Social media has lit up with frustrated teens calling the rule unfair and out of touch.
But state officials maintain the change will save lives and build better drivers.
More rule changes
This comes as drivers could be hit with hefty fines for lingering in the left lane on the highway, as a new law comes in to force.
Motorists in Louisiana who persistently break the rules, which come into force on August 1, face jail time.
How to drive in the rain
DRIVERS caught in the rain should change their strategy immediately or else they could get caught in a nasty accident.
Here are a few tips for staying safe in wet weather.
- Turn off cruise control, as the feature can cause a loss of traction
- Slow down your speed and leave room between cars in case you hydroplane
- Be prepared to skid carefully – if your car starts to slide on the road, avoid slamming on the brakes and calmly continue steering in the direction you want the car to go
- Know that tires can lose contact with the road in as little as 1/12 inch of water
- Never drive into six inches or more of standing water
Currently, vehicle owners who drive 10 miles an hour or more under the speed limit face fines of up to $100.
However, under the new law, the threshold will be lowered to just one mile an hour under the speed limit.
Drivers who are caught for the first time committing this offence will be fined $150.
However, if they are caught breaking the law a second or third time within a year, they face $250 and $350 fines, and up to 30 days in prison.
