CHICAGO (AP) -- Since the institution of more restrictive driving guidelines in January, teen driving deaths in Illinois have fallen.
According to figures released by the state, from January 1st through April 15, 22 teens between the ages of 16 and 19 died on Illinois roadways. That is less than half the 57 deaths recorded during the same period last year.
When it took effect January 1st, Illinois' rules of the road for teens tripled the learner's permit period. They also targeted risk factors blamed for crashes that nationally kill between 5,000 and 6,000 teens a year.
Experts say it is too early to know for sure if tougher driving laws and a stricter licensing system will prove successful in the long run.
