Getting your license is exciting; it gives you more freedom and responsibility. But driving comes with risks, and in Massachusetts, teens under 18 must follow the Junior Operator Law (JOL). This includes stricter rules than for adult drivers, and breaking them can lead to more than just a ticket. You could face steep fines, license suspension, mandatory driver retraining or higher insurance costs.
Here are 10 smart driving tips to help you stay safe, follow the law and avoid expensive consequences.
1. Always buckle up
Massachusetts law requires everyone in a car to wear a seatbelt, no matter where they sit. Police can fine a teen driver if the driver or their younger passengers do not buckle up. More importantly, seatbelts save lives and reduce injuries in crashes.
2. Follow passenger restrictions
For the first six months after getting your license, you cannot drive with anyone under 18 unless they are a family member or you are with a licensed adult who is at least 21. Breaking this rule can lead to a fine, license suspension and driver retraining after repeat violations. These rules help reduce distractions while you are still gaining experience.
3. Respect the nighttime driving curfew
Teen drivers cannot drive between 12:30 a.m. and 5 a.m., unless a parent or guardian is with them. These hours are statistically significantly dangerous for new drivers. Breaking the curfew can lead to harsh penalties, including license suspension and reinstatement fees.
4. Stay off the phone while driving
Teen drivers must not use a phone at all while driving, unless it is a true emergency. Even hands-free use is prohibited, as distracted driving is one of the leading causes of teen accidents. A first offense brings a $100 fine, a 60-day license suspension and required driver retraining.
5. Do not go over the speed limit
Even going slightly over the speed limit can get you in trouble. For Junior Operators, just one speeding ticket can lead to a license suspension, mandatory classes and high fines. Speeding increases your crash risk, especially if you are still learning how to handle different road conditions.
6. Slow down near school zones and at crosswalks
Fines double in school zones, and failing to yield to a pedestrian in a crosswalk is a moving violation. These types of violations can affect your driving record and raise your insurance premiums.
7. Keep your car street legal
Make sure your car is registered, inspected and safe to drive before you head out. If you drive with a loud exhaust, a cracked windshield or missing inspection stickers, police can ticket you. These may seem like minor issues, but they can quickly add up to more serious legal trouble.
8. Never drive under the influence
If you are under 21, even a small amount of alcohol or marijuana can get you charged with a crime, lose your license and leave a mark on your record. Driving under the influence puts you, your passengers and others in danger.
9. Stop means stop
If you roll through stop signs or rush through yellow lights, you break traffic laws. Police take these violations seriously, especially with new drivers. You could face fines, license points and higher insurance rates.
10. Know what is in your car
You are responsible for everyone and everything in your vehicle. If a passenger does not wear a seatbelt or carries something illegal, police can still hold you accountable. Be vigilant and take control of your space to avoid legal trouble you did not directly cause.
Driving smart starts with knowing more
Safe driving is not just about following the rules; it is about protecting your future and everyone riding with you. Whether you are a teen learning the ropes or a parent guiding your child through this new phase, understanding Massachusetts driving laws can prevent fines, fees and more serious consequences down the road.
If a traffic ticket or license issue catches you off guard, you do not have to face it alone. A local attorney can help you understand what is at stake and how to move forward, clearly, calmly and with your rights in mind.
