Prom-goers say teen driving curfew won't ruin special night

ATANTA - Georgia police are warning teen-agers that frilly dresses and sharp tuxedos on prom night won&#39;t excuse them from the state&#39;s new midnight driving curfew that applies to anyone under 18. <br> <br> Some teens say the law won&#39;t stop the traditional all-night party, but many schools are starting the prom earlier and canceling after-dance activities so teens will be off the roads by midnight. <br> <br> Violating the curfew is a misdemeanor punishable by up to a one thousand dollars fine and one year in jail, although most violators just get a warning or a smaller fine. <br> <br> The law is part of a trend as more states are restricting late-night driving by teens as a way to curb accidents. Some states just put the restrictions on 16-year-olds or the newest drivers, and the hours vary. <br> <br> Georgia&#39;s law was among several restrictions sparked by a rash of heavily publicized teen auto deaths in the metro Atlanta area. A proposed amendment by rural lawmakers to exempt trips to and from school, work and church activities was defeated.