Hoping to save more young lives, Colorado lawmakers passed a law two years ago that limits the number of passengers who can ride with a new teen driver.
It was a smart move to protect inexperienced drivers. But as we have witnessed once again, laws alone cannot save lives.
A 16-year-old Green Mountain High School student violated that law last week when her sports-utility vehicle, loaded with three other passengers, collided head-first with another car.
But violating the passenger law is the least of her worries. The driver could face a much more serious charge: vehicular homicide.
Samara Stricklen, 17, a passenger in the other car, was killed. The driver, Seth Mutschler, 20, was critically injured. They were on their way to the movies.
In an instant, lives were shattered and families forever changed. Samara’s parents now grieve for their daughter, who was just beginning life as a young adult. And the family of the 16-year-old driver also grieves, their loss just as deep.
Police say alcohol also may have been a factor in the crash. The Denver Post is withholding the name of the 16-year-old driver because she’s a juvenile who hasn’t been charged with a crime. She’ll likely be told Tuesday what charges she’ll face.
Many states, including Colorado, have been placing new restrictions on teen drivers, seeking to curb such distractions as cellphones and gabbing passengers. The changes are meant to diminish the frequency of speeding and driving errors.
Only 6 percent of licensed drivers in Colorado are teenagers, but they account for 11 percent of all traffic deaths in the state. Sixty-two 16- to 20-year-olds died on Colorado roadways in 2006.
Samara Stricklen’s death should serve as a harrowing reminder to teens of how fragile their lives are, and how important their actions are behind the wheel. Parents also can use it as a “teachable moment” to remind their young drivers about safety, safety, safety.
For helpful tips for teens and parents, go to www.coloradodrivetime.com.
