Driving is a privilege that most teens look forward to; some because of the freedom, others because they feel more responsible, and the few that want to drive to feel cool. Sophomore Iris Johnson shared that, “I think sophomores who are 15-16 feel they have to drive because we want to prove we are growing up and we are trying to prove that we are responsible and ready to take on life’s challenges.”

In Florida, the learners permit can legally be obtained at the age of 15, which allows driving with a licensed driver of 21 years of age or more. After a permit, the real freedom begins at the license, which enables teens ages 16 and up to drive alone.

Driving is a responsibility that must be taken seriously because it can lead to a tragedy for the inhabitants of the car, as well as others outside of the car. Out of all people, 16 year olds have the highest crash rates, even higher than elderly people. There are various situations for teen crashes such as driving while intoxicated, texting while driving, simply hitting a mailbox, etc.

Sabrina Phillips, a sophomore at SHS, said “I think that teens are irresponsible with their driving and some people shouldn’t be given their permit because they can’t handle that responsibility.” Teenagers need to make smart decisions that will not endanger anyone in the making. Not only is it a teenager’s decision to get their permit and license, but parents have a say in this too, especially if they are paying for it.

“I have my permit [and] my mom is more easy going but my dad is extremely cautious,” is how Meagan Harwick, a junior, described how her parents react to her driving.  Situations vary, as Johnson described how her parents want her to handle driving. “My parents feel I should be safe on the road because it’s important for me to protect myself and be cautious of the other people I would be driving with,” described Johnson.

Regardless of how it makes people feel personally about driving, always think about other’s first because when there is  a tragic car crash, more than likely, there is more than one person that has to feel the pain. Being responsible is always a priority, but who said it still can not be a fun experience?