Young drivers.

Yesterday the New South Wales government revealed it's plan to curb the death toll of young and inexperienced drivers. To a degree, this is an election stunt. Parliament is not sitting - and will not sit until after the March 24 election - hence this plan depends on the government being re-elected - and even then there is a chance of a change of mind before the anticipated commencement date of July 1 next year.
The plan will impose severe restrictions on those who have just gained their license and who must display a red " P " plate. There will be no margin of error when it comes to speeding. Any P plate driver found to be exceeding the speed limit will automatically face license suspension for a three month period. At the end of that period they will again have to apply for a license, sit the written and practical test - and pay the fees so involved.
They will be banned from using any mobile phone while driving, even when the car is fitted with a " hands free " system.
They will be banned from carrying more than one passenger under the age of 21 between the hours of 11 PM and 5 AM. Family members are excluded and there will be exemptions granted where work or other factors are deemed necessary.
Will it work ? The general consensus is that it may save a few lives, but there will be a down side. It wipes out the designated driver plan - where one person abstains from alcohol and is the " safe driver " for a group having a night out. Obviously it's implementation will result in teens being left stranded late at night - and probably driving themselves home after a drinking session.
The other observation is that it imposes hardship on the many - most of whom are responsible people despite their early years - and will be completely ignored by the hoodlum element. The chances of success rely entirely on policing - and there are no plans to increase police numbers at this stage !