Keeping The Driving Age 16 Essay

Keeping the Driving age 16

Over the past 10 years, the driving age has become a heated debate amongst different age demographics. Driving is a rite of passage for many teenagers in the United States. However, there is ongoing debate about whether the minimum driving age should remain at 16 or be raised. While some argue that 16-year-olds are too young and immature to be behind the wheel of a car, others believe that getting a driver's license at a young age can help teenagers become more responsible and independent adults. The driving age should not be raised because it forces teens to be responsible and gives them a sense of accountability.

Firstly, getting a driver's license forces a teen to be responsible in various ways. Before they are

While this might sound frightening, this can actually be an excellent learning experience for teen drivers. When a teen passes their driving test it comes with so much more than a license. They are also now in charge of their own vehicle that comes with rules and regulations. Many parents pay for their teen drivers insurance but have their child pay for the monthly car payments. This is a great way to introduce teens to being an adult. By having their own job and paying for their car it eases them into the world of living on their own as an adult. Another financial possibility when you own a car is tickets, when owning your own vehicle you are held accountable for paying for tickets as well as any needed repairs, it shows that in the real world actions have consequences that you cannot avoid. In “Opinion: Independence, freedom, accountability — what teens can gain from driving at 16” by Sam Goodman, he says, “..when there is an emergency and a parent or legal guardian isn’t present, having a license as early as possible can allow you to step in” (2). Here he furthers my point showing that teen drivers are able to be in charge of the lives of their passengers in more way than one. It again teaches real world situations while allowing teens to be in their hometown, somewhere comfortable and

Though these statements are just untrue generalizations of all teens. While some teenagers may be immature or irresponsible, it's not fair to generalize about an entire age group. In fact, many 16-year-olds can make responsible decisions and handle important tasks. For instance, at this age, many teens start working part-time jobs and are good at managing their schedules and finances. Besides, many teens take on leadership roles in extracurricular activities or volunteer organizations, showing a high level of maturity and responsibility. In “Opinion: Independence, freedom, accountability — what teens can gain from driving at 16” by Sam Goodman, he says, “There is an increased chance for job opportunities that come with a license and a car” (2). Having a license gives you more opportunities as a teen to mature and gain responsibility to help them adjust to live as an adult. Rather than writing off 16-year-olds as naturally immature, it's crucial to acknowledge and encourage their individual strengths and