Should the minimum driving age be raised?

Question

I am writing a research paper for my English class on controversial issues. I chose the minimum driving age and we have to present both sides of the issue. I am trying to find support for how increasing the minimum driving age will deter teenage motor vehicle crashes and related deaths.

For opposing arguments, I want to write about how all new drivers have the same amount of experience because they are new drivers, but I can not really find that much support for it. Also, I was thinking about using the fact that raising the minimum driving age to 18 would only cause problems because the new drivers would virtually be learning how to drive solo at the same time they are learning how to drink/alcohol is more easily accessible.

If you have any ideas, let me know!

Thanks!

Answer 1

As pros toward raising the age you could talk about how the adolescent brain isn't fully formed at that age and still has a hard time distinguishing right from wrong. Teenagers often think of themselves as indistructible.

You should also mention that it would help to bring about a stronger system of public transit before a real discussion of raising the driving age can be addressed.

Answer 2

Although many argue that people are maturing at earlier ages I feel the driving age should be raised. 15 1/2 in some states is way to young to give someone the right to drive a car. Many studies show that most accidents are from people under the age of 19. This does not mean that anyone under 19 should not be allowed to drive it just shows facts that the accidents are more common in younger drivers. On the other hand, I also feel that adults over the age of 60 should have to retake the test bi-yearly. The second leading accidents are caused by adults from 61-74 years of age. This is just an opinion, take it for what its worth. Good luck in your English class, this is a really good subject to write on because younger people will argue one way and older adults will argue the other.
A good place to find facts on the accidents would be at your local highway patrol or DMV, they can at least point you in the right direction. Good Luck again.

Answer 3

The physical act of driving is not that big a deal. I think the reason they have the age set where it is now is so that parents will be around to help their kids learn how to drive. The laws were created way before government mandated driving courses. Raising the minimum age is a lousy idea because at 18 alot of people lose the support system of both a family and school. They are just "out there on their own".

Answer 4

No not at all.