Seminar to discuss new teen driving laws

State Rep. Timothy Schmitz will hold a seminar today designed to educate new drivers and their parents on some of the teen driving laws that were enacted over the summer.

"In Kane County alone, we have witnessed a number of incidents in the past few years involving inexperienced drivers," Schmitz said.

"As a parent and as a fire fighter, I am convinced that educating parents and inexperienced drivers about potential dangers is a key component in keeping our children and others safe."

The seminar will be held from 7 to 8 p.m. today at the Elgin Community College Fox Valley University and Business Center, 1700 Spartan Drive, Elgin.

Representatives from the Secretary of State's office and the state police will be on hand to update participants on the new laws. The state police also will be on hand with a roll-over machine to simulate what happens in the event of a roll-over accident. According to the Illinois Department of Transportation, teen drivers account for about 13 percent of traffic fatalities annually, although they represent only 8.4 percent of the driving population.

Space is limited; reserve your spot by calling the district office at (630) 845-9590. Schmitz's district includes the following service areas relevant to ECC: Algonquin, Burlington, Carpentersville, Elgin, South Elgin, Gilberts, Hampshire, Huntley, Pingree Grove, Sleepy Hollow, St. Charles and West Dundee.