Do you think that teenagers should be able to drive at the age of 16?
Though the paternalists of society are worried about the rising rates of accidents involving teenage drivers, many successful steps have been taken by legislators to reduce the occurrence of such tremendous calamities. The addition of “the year rule,” in which teenagers are not allowed to transport other minors without the presence of an adult and may not drive between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m., has proved to be extremely effective in reducing teenage accidents by at least 40 percent according to statistics in JSTOR, despite the fact that the law is not widely followed by teenagers. There is no need for parents to worry about allowing adolescents to drive at the age of 16, as long as they properly educate them about the prevalent dangers of driving and how to avoid them. This is all the more reason for teenagers to be able to obtain their drivers license at 16.
Get a tailor-made essay on 'Argumentative Points: Why Should The Driving Age Be Raised to 21' Recently, there has been a demand to raise the driver’s license requirement up to the age of 18. In a study analyzed by NHTSA, teen drivers were two-and-a-half times more likely to engage in one or more potentially risky behaviors when driving with one teenage peer, compared to when driving alone. According to the same study analyzed by NHTSA, the likelihood of teen drivers engaging in one or more when traveling with multiple passengers increased to three times compared to when driving alone. In fact, research shows that the risk of a fatal crash goes up in direct relation to the number of teenagers in the car. Each year high school sophomores all across the United States celebrate an important milestone in their lives: getting their drivers license. Though several people believe that the mandated age should be increased to 18 for safety reasons, the current minimum driving age of 16 is, without exaggeration, perfect. One of the most compelling arguments against raising the driving age is the importance of experience in reducing accident rates. If the legal driving age were increased to 18, these new drivers would still lack practical experience when they first hit the road. In contrast, a 16-year-old with two years of driving experience is likely to be more adept and less prone to accidents than an 18-year-old just starting out. Studies indicate that the primary reason for accidents among young drivers is not age but rather a lack of experience. An 18-year-old with only one year of driving experience is as likely to crash as a 17-year-old with the same level of experience. By allowing teenagers to begin driving at 16, we give them the opportunity to accumulate this crucial experience over time, reducing the likelihood of accidents as they transition into adulthood. Remind your teen that underage drinking is illegal, and driving under the influence of any impairing substance – including illicit, over-the-counter, and prescription drugs – could have deadly consequences. Drinking alcohol under the age of 21 is illegal in every state—inside or outside of a vehicle. laws are always strictly enforced, and many states have , meaning that there can be no trace of alcohol or illegal drugs in your system at any time. Let your teen know: Law enforcement officers will be able to test for these substances. The argument that teenagers lack the maturity to drive safely is a misconception that overlooks the role of experience in cultivating responsible drivers. When teens first take the wheel, they often experience a heightened sense of nervousness, which can actually lead to more cautious and conscientious driving. This initial apprehension encourages them to adhere strictly to traffic rules and prioritize safety. Drawing a parallel to academics, when students are anxious about an exam, they tend to study more diligently, resulting in better performance. Similarly, nervousness in novice drivers can translate into heightened alertness and responsibility. Research supports this notion, indicating that young drivers, aware of their inexperience, are often more vigilant than seasoned drivers who may become complacent over time. Therefore, starting to drive at 16 allows teens to gradually build their confidence and driving skills, ultimately leading to safer roads.
The Legal Driving Age Should Be 16
Behind steering wheels sit young lives as society wrestles with questions of maturity and responsibility on the road. While concerns about teenage driving safety are valid, it is imperative to understand that experience is a critical factor in developing responsible drivers. Experience is not solely a function of age but rather the result of practical engagement. Thus, I strongly contend that the legal driving age should remain at 16, as it provides teenagers with the opportunity to gain invaluable experience, promotes responsibility, and offers significant benefits to families.
The Legal Driving Age Should Be 16
Allowing teenagers to drive at 16 is beneficial not only for the adolescents themselves but also for their families. At this age, teens can begin to alleviate some of the logistical challenges faced by their parents. For instance, they can run errands, drive themselves to school activities, and transport their siblings. This newfound responsibility can significantly ease the burden on working parents who may struggle to juggle professional and familial obligations. When teenagers gain the ability to drive, they become an essential support system within the family unit. Evidence suggests that parents experience a sense of relief when their children acquire this skill, as it lifts some weight off their shoulders. By maintaining the driving age at 16, we empower teenagers to contribute positively to their households, fostering a sense of responsibility and independence.
To them the legal driving age should be changed to eighteen.
This is because it teaches teenagers more responsibility and it better prepares them for the future in a way that nothing else can.
In conclusion, 16 years old is old enough to get your license and the reason for this is that teenagers won’t have to rely on their parents as much anymore, and most 16 year olds are mature and responsible enough to drive.
So why isn’t the driving age being changed too?
In today's society, the issue of whether the driving age should be lowered to 16 is a topic of much debate and controversy. Proponents of lowering the driving age argue that it would provide teenagers with more independence and freedom, while opponents express concerns about safety and maturity levels among younger drivers. This essay explores both sides of the argument to provide a comprehensive understanding of the issue.