Study Finds Red Decals On NJ Teen License Plates Linked To Fewer Crashes

TRENTON, N.J. (CBSNewYork) -- Controversial decals on New Jersey license plates are saving the lives of young drivers, according to a new study.

Many residents and lawmakers were skeptical that a little red sticker on a license plate would have any impact on crash rates of drivers under 21.

But Allison Curry, an epidemiologist from the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, says they have.

"A little over 3,000 intermediate drivers crashes were prevented," she told WCBS 880's Monica Miller.

Listen to Study Finds Red Decals On NJ Teen License Plates Linked To Fewer Crashes

Curry led a recent study comparing crash statistics before and after New Jersey introduced some limitations to drivers.

"We know that these GDL (Graduated Driver Licensing) restrictions are life saving -- such as passenger restrictions and night restrictions," she said.

Curry says New Jersey has one of the most progressive graduated licensing systems in the country and also has one of the lowest teen crash rates.

The study was released Monday in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine. To see the full study, click here.

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