Parents who have lost children to auto accidents joined congressional lawmakers to help launch a a campaign for federal licensing standards for teenage drivers. The Safe Teen and Novice Driver Uniform Protection act, STANDUP, would raise state licensing requirements to a consistent level nationwide.

State governments would be in charge of implementing the requirements as they saw fit, including making possible exceptions for farm kids in rural areas. For states that failed to put the standards into their driving laws, the bill would allow the government to withhold a certain amount of federal highway money.

The licensing stages would not be too different from what many states have now. The learner's permit would be available to those 16 and older, and would include restrictions such as no nighttime driving and limit passengers. An intermediate license would be issued based on a safe record and possibly a mandatory period of time learning how to drive. A full driver's license would be available at the age of 18 assuming the teen has met prior requirements.

Many lawmakers and parents are against this proposed act as it would make things more difficult for their children to have a driver’s license, however parents who have suffered the deadly consequences of teenage highway fatalities say it's not worth the risk to put young people in driving situations they don't yet know how to handle.

Regardless of whether the act is passed its important to make sure teenage drivers are being safe on the road. Make sure your teenager knows how dangerous it is to text and drive. Distractions such as cell phones, radios and passengers can create a difficult environment to focus so make sure your teenager knows to leave the cell phone alone, turn the radio down and to focus on the road. If you are involved in a car wreck though, be sure to call Richard Schwartz and Associates. They’ll be able to help you determine what steps need to be taken and how you can get your claim handled as quickly and easily as possible.