Older but not always wiser

Older but not always wiser

Toledo Blade: More than 4,000 teenagers die each year in automobile accidents. Many of these deaths are preventable. That is the intent of a bill before Congress that would create a national standard to prepare young people to become safe drivers.

The Federal Highway Administration says more teens are putting off getting a driver’s license until they turn 18, or even 19. Fewer budget-constrained schools offer driver’s education classes, and private classes are expensive.

Cell phones, text messaging, and social networks such as Twitter and Facebook have reduced the importance of the automobile as a symbol of youthful independence. The result: more 18-year-old first-time drivers with unrestricted licenses but no professional instruction.

Parents must be the first line of defense. They are in the best position to know when their son or daughter is mature and experienced enough to accept the responsibility of driving.

The bill before Congress may be too lenient. It sets the age for a learner’s permit at 16 and restricts nighttime driving until the age of 18. Neither provision will reduce the fatality rate among older first-time drivers.

A better alternative would encourage driver’s education for all new drivers, regardless of age.