From today, it is illegal for drivers under the age of 20 to drink any alcohol at all. Previously the limit was 30mg of alcohol per 100ml of blood. Now the law says teenagers may not drink at all if they are driving. If they break this law, they will be fined $200 and receive 50 demerit points. If a driver gets 100 demerit points over a two year period, he or she will lose their licence for 3 months.
From August 1st, the age when young people can get a restricted licence, was increased from 15 to 16 years old. From next February, young drivers will need more practice with an adult before they can get a full licence.
The reason for these law changes is the high number of car crashes caused by young people. Only 6.1% of drivers were between the ages of 15 and 19 last year but they caused 17% of serious car crashes. Alcohol was involved in many of those crashes.
The police hope that after the age of 20, young drivers will continue the practice of no alcohol.
For more about this law change, listen to May 5th 2011.
Vocabulary
• Demerit points are given to any driver who breaks the law e.g. for speeding.
• A restricted licence is for a learner who can drive with an adult and no other passengers. With a restricted licence, a learner can only drive during day time.
Grammar
There are some “If” sentences here: If they are driving, they may not drink. If they drink, they will …
Practise making your own “If” sentences. Note that in speech it is usual to say “I’ll” not “I will” e.g. If it’s raining, I’ll catch a bus.