Concern has sparked across the country due to the already high and rising numbers of fatal car accidents involving teenagers. Many are left questioning the safety of the roads and whether teens should have the privilege of driving.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in 2022, approximately six drivers between the ages of 15-20 were killed in car crashes every day (autoinsurance). Between texting while driving, new high-tech sound systems installed in cars and disruptive passengers, there have been many factors that have impacted the number of teenage crashes.
“I think teenagers get distracted easier [when driving], and they also are more likely to be tired or not ready to drive [rather] than adults,” stated Elsie Bisgard, 9.
As a 15-year-old with her school permit, Bisgard is exposed to many teenage drivers in the Liberty parking lot every day. She agrees that her peers contribute to possible dangers when driving while also seeing the convenience that comes with transportation.
“[Driving] is pretty great. Even my parents have said that they’re able to go do things and not have to drive me to practice all the time. . . so it’s really nice for me to be able to take myself,” said Bisgard.
While the statistics for severe teenage car crashes are continuing to rise, Iowa’s statistics seem to be curving in a downward arc recently. In 2024, the death toll of teenage drivers by July had decreased approximately 70% from what it had been during that time period the previous year (KCCI).
“I think that having a harder teacher like my dad was super hard on me [and] made me a better, safer driver. because I’m more aware of people being bad drivers,” said Zoe Edkin, 10.
Edkin recently got her license in the fall of 2024, and she agrees that teenagers are notoriously known for being inexperienced and reckless drivers. She is extremely grateful for having had a driving teacher such as her dad, who heightened her awareness of possible dangers on the road. However, Edkin does admit to reaping the benefits of driving.
“I think [being able to drive] gives me more freedom… It makes it way easier to get myself to and from [extracurricular activities],” Edkin said.
There is a disconnect between prioritizing safe driving and craving more efficient means of transportation. Although the current generation of young drivers seems to contribute to the risk of car accidents, only time will tell if the Iowa government continues to uphold driving privileges given to teenagers.
