TEEN drivers in Illinois have longer life expectancies thanks to tougher standards for drivers licenses.

Starting in 2008, teens were required to log more hours of practice behind the steering wheel before getting their licenses. In addition, the state put limits on the number of young passengers allowed in vehicles driven by teens.

During the first nine months of 2007 there were 127 teen fatalities statewide. This year the number of deaths had fallen to 60. Another statistic on fatal crashes in Illinois shows that 32 drivers between the ages of 16 and 19 died during the first nine months of 2009. That is down from 69 drivers in the same age group in 2007.

The figures show that whether they are driving, or riding, those under age 20 are safer on the state's highways.

"As the most inexperienced drivers on our highways, continuing driver education programs for teens are absolutely essential," said Greg Cohen, executive director of the Roadway Safety Foundation.

Michael Stout, director of the Illinois Department of Transportation's Division of Traffic Safety, said the Operation Teen Safe Driving program also deserves some credit for making a difference. Teens develop safe driving programs within their schools in partnership with IDOT, the Allstate Foundation and Ford Motor Company. The Illinois program was recognized this week by the Federal Highway Administration and the Roadway Safety Foundation for reaching young drivers with messages that make them safer.

Traffic crashes claimed 37,261 lives nationwide during 2008. The number of deaths has gradually been declining thanks to safer vehicles, safer highways and improved medical care.

By insisting on greater training of young drivers, and engaging teens in creating safe driving programs for their peers, Illinois is leading the way.