I’m a 17-year-old who has recently taken on the responsibility of driving. At this transitional stage of life, driving is considered a rite of passage and gives teenagers more freedom and independence. But is getting a driver’s license at a young age really worth it? Is it worth all the risks and consequences?
To the individual, yes, but to society as a whole, no. Parents feel like they are punishing all teenagers by pushing for an increased driving age. That is not the case; they are only trying to protect their children at a vulnerable time in life–the teenage years. It is well-known that parents will not be able to hold on forever, and that they will eventually have to let go. With a raise in the driving age, it will be with more experience behind the wheel, experience that can potentially save lives.
This isn’t saying that teenagers, like myself, are irresponsible drivers. What is being said is that more supervision and hours on the road would provide more experience.
