Driven to Distraction

     One of the features of Alabama Graduated Driver's License keeps teens from driving with more than one friend along for the ride.

     During the second of the three levels, the driver:

"Must not have more than one passenger in the vehicle other than parents, legal guardians or family members."

     It's the state's attempt to reduce distracted driving as much as possible.The use of electronic devices is also banned.

    Now a study has confirmed that keeping friends out of the car is a good idea, but it should keep ALL fellow teen passengers out. The teen brain is apparently wired to show-off for friends...especially boys and especially for other male teen friends.

    Alabama is one of five Southern States identified as especially dangerous for teen drivers in a 2008 Allstate study...and the Birmingham-Hoover area was further selected as a national hotspot for teen deaths.