A new law allowing 17-year-olds to drive alone between 5 a.m. and 8 p.m. is drawing criticism due to safety concerns. Critics argue that the law is irresponsible and will worsen road safety.

The primary concern revolves around the maturity and risk assessment abilities of 17-year-olds. Experts point out that their brains are not fully developed, leading to inadequate risk evaluation and a tendency to overestimate their capabilities.

Statistics show that 18-24-year-olds have a considerably higher rate of serious accidents compared to other age groups. Allowing inexperienced young drivers to operate vehicles without supervision is viewed as a dangerous proposition.

The law’s justification, based on the notion of a “historically responsible youth,” is disputed by some. Recent data and anecdotal evidence suggest a more nuanced picture, questioning the blanket assumption of responsibility.

The permitted driving hours are also a point of contention. The fixed time frame fails to account for variations in daylight throughout the year, with daylight extending beyond 8 p.m. in summer and ending earlier than 5 a.m. in winter.

Concerns are raised about young people, such as shift workers or shop apprentices, who may need to drive outside the approved hours.

A significant portion of accidents occurs during morning and afternoon rush hours, which fall within the allowed driving period. This means that 17-year-olds are permitted to drive unsupervised during the most hazardous times of the day.

Rural areas, where distances are greater and public transport limited, are expected to see increased driving among 17-year-olds. This is concerning, as country roads account for the highest number of traffic fatalities and serious injuries involving passenger cars.

The increased number of cars on the roads, particularly in urban areas, is another potential consequence of the law.