The PLP Government is taking action to reduce the number of accidents and fatalities on Bermuda's roads. Today, we introduced the Bermuda Youth Licence as passed in the Auxiliary Bicycles (No. 2) Act 2009.

The new law requires that 16-year-olds complete the Project Ride course prior to the issuance of a Bermuda Youth Licence. It also restricts those 18 and under from both driving from 1 am - 5 am and from carrying a pillion passenger at any time. Premier Ewart Brown explains:

I am pleased to announce that effective April 1st, 2010 the Auxiliary Bicycles (No. 2) Act 2009 will come into force.

On that day, a Bermuda Youth License will be issued to applicants aged 16 years only after they have completed Project Ride.

Additionally, several restrictions will apply to both the Bermuda Youth Licence and also those holding a Bermuda Driver’s license who are under the age of 18 years. Individuals who fall in this category will not be permitted to ride between the hours of 1:00 am and 5:00 am on any given day; and they may not carry a pillion passenger at any time.

It’s this Government’s view that the introduction of the Bermuda Youth Licence will have a positive impact on road safety by not only developing, but encouraging healthier behaviours in our young people on our roads.

The long-term benefit is the reduction of carnage on Bermuda’s roads in the future.

The public called for action to make our roads safer, and, we responded. But, ultimately, our parents and our young people share the responsibility for safe roads. We must teach our young people that they are not invincible and that too many have died and suffered devastating injuries as a result of reckless and irresponsible driving. We call upon Bermuda's parents to join with our Project Ride instructors in teaching responsible driving. And, we call upon our young people to heed the warnings and safely operate their bikes.