For many youths, earning a licence to drive is a rite of passage. For parents, supporting a child’s foray into greater independence is an exciting time, but it can also be fraught with anxiety. Fortunately, British Columbia uses a graduated licensing system designed to minimize risks and provide new drivers with the training they need to succeed. Continue reading to learn more about the B.C. driving system from a knowledgeable ICBC personal injury lawyer.
What Documents Are Needed to Get a Learner’s Licence?
When applying for a learner’s licence, new drivers will need to provide ONE PRIMARY form of identification:
They will also need ONE SECONDARY form of ID:
This is just a partial list– other forms are also acceptable, however, only the original form of these documents will be accepted– not emails or photocopies. All but the passport may be expired.
How the B.C. Licensing System Works
Here’s how the system works:
The “L” stage lasts for 12 to 24 months. Drivers must have another licensed adult at least 25 years of age present while behind the wheel and adhere to the restrictions printed on the licence. For instance, drivers must display a red “L” sign in the back window of the vehicle, drive with no more than one additional passenger besides the supervisor, and refrain from driving between midnight and 5 a.m
Why Are There So Many New Driver Restrictions?
The system can be frustrating for youngsters who want the freedom of driving right away. However, the top causes of automobile accidents remain distracted driving, speeding, and impairment. For these reasons, there is a zero-tolerance policy on using handheld devices (even with hands-free technology) or driving under the influence of drugs and alcohol. Limiting the hours at which a teenager may drive and the number of peers in the vehicle further reduces the likelihood of carloads of partying kids on the roadways.
Once Your Child is on the Road, Familiarize Yourself with ICBC Lawyers
The last thing any parent wants to imagine is one’s teen involved in a motor vehicle accident. However, according to ICBC, one in six young drivers will be in a crash, and 25 percent of those individuals will suffer an injury. In 2015, there were 8,200 injuries and 28 fatalities involving drivers from 16-21.
It’s always good to have Vancouver ICBC lawyers listed on your phone in the event of a fender-bender. We assist in preparing ICBC files, advocating for the injured, providing legal advice, and filing lawsuits for negligence or recklessness when necessary. It costs nothing upfront to work with an ICBC law firm. We get paid through the ICBC negotiating process. Preszler Law Firm serves all of Vancouver through offices in Abbotsford, Burnaby, Kelowna, Richmond, Surrey, Vancouver, and Victoria.