Differential deterrence, graduated driver licensing systems and traffic violations
In keeping with the differential deterrence theory, this article assesses the relationship between driver’s licence restrictions, informal and formal social control mechanisms, and the propensity to disobey traffic safety rules in a sample of 392 young drivers who held either a regular or a restricted licence. Graduated driver licensing programs restrict learner or probationary licence holders to, among other things, a limited number of demerit points and zero tolerance for drinking and driving. Results from multiple regression analyses indicate that drivers with restricted licenses are less likely to commit traffic violations when compared to those holding regular licenses. Results also show that peers who commit infractions are less likely to influence restricted license holders than those with a regular license. It appears that, among all licence holders, acceptance of driving standards is the most effective predictor of conformity to traffic rules.