Getting your driver’s license is one of the most exciting milestones in life, but it also comes with a lot of responsibility.
West Virginia has a Graduated Driver’s License (GDL) program. Instead of jumping right into full driving privileges, the GDL program gives teens a chance to learn the ropes step by step while minimizing risks.
Let’s look at what you need to know about West Virginia’s GDL program and how it works.
Why Does West Virginia Have a GDL Program?
When they hit the road, most new drivers are very nervous about the process. That is on a good day. When you add in heavy traffic or bad weather, that can increase the anxiety behind the wheel. The GDL program can help reduce the chances of accidents by gradually introducing new drivers to more challenging driving situations.
This process makes sure young drivers have the skills and confidence to handle whatever comes their way on the road.
There are a few steps to the program.
Step 1: The Instructional Permit (Level 1 GDL)
All young drivers will need to have an instructional permit, often called a learner’s permit. At this point, they will learn the driving basics under the guidance of a licensed adult.
To qualify, these individuals must:
- Be at least 15 years old.
- Pass a written knowledge test covering traffic laws and road signs.
- Pass a vision test
- Bring documentation, such as a birth certificate and Social Security card.
- Have a parent or guardian sign off on the application if under 18 years of age.
Once granted, these drivers can only drive with a licensed adult (21 or older) in the front passenger seat. There are also time restrictions. They cannot be on the road between 10 pm and 5 am. unless it is for work, school, or church. Also, using a phone while driving is strictly prohibited, even if it’s hands-free.
Drivers will need to have this permit for at least six months. During this time, they must complete 50 hours of supervised driving, including 10 hours at night. This is a chance to practice and get comfortable behind the wheel without the pressure of driving solo.
Step 2: The Intermediate Driver’s License (Level 2 GDL)
Once these drivers have mastered the basics, they can take the next step: driving without supervision. Some of these qualifications include:
- Must be at least 16 years old.
- Hold the instructional permit for at least six months.
- Log 50 hours of driving practice and pass the road skills test.
During this phase, these individuals can drive without an adult, but there are still some restrictions:
- There can only be one non-family passenger under 20 in the car unless a licensed adult (over 21) is present.
- No driving between 10 pm and 5 am unless there is a need for school, work, or religious activities.
- Seat belts are mandatory for everyone in the car.
- Phones and other distractions are still not allowed.
The intermediate stage lasts at least 12 months. Drivers will need to keep a clean driving record during this time. That means no accidents, moving violations, or seat belt tickets.
Step 3: The Full License
The final step is earning a full, unrestricted driver’s license. By this point, these drivers have proven they are ready to take on the road with confidence.
At this point, prospective drivers must:
- Be at least 17 years old.
- Hold an intermediate license for 12 months.
- Maintain a clean driving record during the intermediate stage.
Once a full license is granted, these drivers are no longer restricted by passenger limits or nighttime driving curfews. However, the responsibility to drive safely remains the same.
What Happens If You Get into an Accident with These Drivers?
If you get into a car accident with a Graduated Driver’s License (GDL) driver in West Virginia, there are several factors that could come into play depending on the circumstances of the crash.
Let’s look at liability. Just like any other driver, a GDL driver in West Virginia can be held liable if they are found at fault for the accident. Insurance companies will investigate to determine who is responsible for damages. If the GDL driver is at fault, their insurance rates are likely to increase, and the policyholder (often a parent or guardian) could also face higher premiums.
West Virginia has specific restrictions for GDL drivers, such as limits on nighttime driving and passenger rules. If the GDL driver broke these restrictions at the time of the accident, they may face additional penalties, including fines, suspension of their license, or delays in obtaining full driving privileges.
If this happens to you, make sure to report the accident to your insurance company and consult with a legal professional.
While the GDL program is meant to help new drivers learn the rules of the road in a safe manner, accidents can still happen. If you have been injured by a driver in this program, DiPiero Simmons McGinley & Bastress, PLLC can discuss your legal options.