Requires a holder of a class DJ or MJ learners permit, while operating a vehicle, to display a sign indicating that such vehicle is being driven by a new driver

BILL NUMBER:S1169

Title of bill

An act to amend the vehicle and traffic law, in relation to signage for persons driving under a learner's permit

Purpose or general idea of bill

An act to amend the vehicle and traffic law requiring Learner License signage to be displayed on all vehicles being operated by a driver holding a learners permit.

Summary of specific provisions

Section 1-501(b) of the vehicle and traffic law, as added by chapter 644 of the laws of 2002, is amended to include the additional restriction that anyone holding a class DJ or class MJ learner's permit cannot operate a motor vehicle without a sign, visible to both oncoming and flowing traffic, indicating that such vehicle is being driven by a new driver. The Commissioner of Motor Vehicles shall determine the form and distribution of such signage.

Justification

While New York has placed additional restrictions on new drivers in an effort to protect new and young drivers, accidents still occur in alarming frequency. Oftentimes, accidents occur as the result of other driver mistakes and/or actions rather the newly learning driver.

The display of a learner's license tag or plate on the rear view window of an automobile will alert other drivers that a learning driver is operating the vehicle. Drivers around the learning driver could then exercise more caution in their driving behavior. The learning driver would also benefit knowing that other drivers on the road axe aware that he or she is learning how to drive.

This practice is widespread throughout the world. New drivers in the United Kingdom, Ireland, India, Hong Kong, Singapore, Malaysia, Australia, New Zealand, Switzerland, and Great British Columbia, are require to place learner tags on their vehicles.

The Commissioner of Motor. Vehicle shall determine the form and nature of the learner signage with the requirement that the signage is removable and transferable from vehicle to vehicle, and that is clearly displayed to motorists who are near the vehicle.

Prior legislative history

2013-2014: S.1612 - Referred to Transportation; 2011-12: S.1057/A4252 -- Referred to Transportation 2010: S.5379/A.4180 Referred to Transportation 2008: A.9496 Referred to Transportation

Fiscal implications

Minimal to New York State Department of Motor Vehicle for printing of signs.

Effective date

1st of September next succeeding the date on which it shall have become law.