Bismarck Tribune - North Dakota News - Tribune editorial:Raising driving age not the best move

Tribune editorial:Raising driving age not the best move

Jan 07, 2009 - 04:05:23 CST

North Dakota has a larger population of older citizens than most states and, therefore, a larger percentage of the population of senior citizens that drive. Likewise, the state allows drivers to have licenses at a younger age than most states, as young as 14 years of age, because of the rural nature of North Dakota.

Although mass transit has improved in North Dakota in the past decade, it does not come close to taking care of the needs of the state's younger and older citizens. And until it does, the state should hold off on raising the age required for licensed drivers.

However, the Legislature appears to be on the verge of increasing restrictions on teen-aged drivers in the state. The motivation for raising the driving age from 14 to 16 is to counter very real statistics - 16-year-olds have a higher crash rate than drivers of any other age and are three times more likely to die in any crash than the average of all drivers.

There are proposals to raise the age for driving in the state from the North Dakota Insurance Department and from Rep. Ed Gruchalla of Fargo.

The concerns behind proposed laws restricting young drivers are laudable, but there are better solutions than pushing up the age for licensed driving. As we have stated before on this page, a better solution is to have a continuation, even enhancement, of graduated driver's license programs - a three-stage process including supervised learning, intermediate license and full-privilege license.

Presently in North Dakota, at age 14, a person can obtain an instructional permit and can drive when accompanied by an adult who has at least three years' driving experience. After six months and completing a driver's education course, a young person can drive a parent or guardian's vehicle without supervision. And at age 16, they may have an unrestricted license.

Further, 14- and 15-year-olds may drive unaccompanied while doing farm work. The proposal to raise the age from 14-16 years of age for licensing would include an exemption for farm work.

Putting more effort into providing driver's education for young drivers, and requiring additional experience in the permit process, benefits everyone. Gruchalla makes the case for young drivers having experience in all seasons and weather conditions, and we support that.

There's also talk about banning cell phones, texting and late-night driving by young drivers. Being distracted by cell phones and other electronic devices while driving is just as much a problem with adult drivers as it is for the state's youngest drivers, and restricting it by age misses the point. If lawmakers are going to ban people using cell phones in their cars, it needs to be for all drivers and not just one age group.

Government can't protect everyone, all the time, from everything.

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Comments

TK wrote on Jan 14, 2009 10:23 PM:

" This is hilarious - online editor hasn't posted 3 posts - give me statistics on young drivers in the state and how many are involved in accidents/caused them - minn mom, your in MN, don't worry about it, not your problem!! 14 yr. old drove his 89 4 wheel drive pickup Mon and Tues and never had a problem - besides not getting out of our development because of people in cars that don't know how to drive - all I seen was adults in trouble - maybe everyone needs a refresher course. "

in college wrote on Jan 14, 2009 4:07 PM:

" We need not legislate for what parents should do. I was able to get my permit when I was 14, but not able to get my license until I was 16 AND after I took Driver's Ed, which is not required if license is obtained after the age of 16 (this was true about 7 years ago, not sure what it is like now). This was a family rule. My parents basically said, "No you can't have your license until you're 16, this two years in between is for driving practice."

All drivers need practice and my parents allowed me to practice for 2 years. Parents are mainly responsible for their child's practice and should take as much time as the child needs (6 months, 2 years, or until the child's 18th birthday).

If these bad drivers are out on the road, one should ask, "Well, how did they get their licenses in the first place? How did they pass the test?" Maybe the test should be tougher.

For those who have written that people can just use mass transit: what about the people who don't have access to mass transit, i.e. people living in New Salem, Washburn, Center, Stanton, Hazen, and Beulah? How are they supposed to get from home to school, work, church, grocery store if they are in a rural setting?

Also, has anyone asked what the 14, 15, 16 17 year olds think? "

Allen S. wrote on Jan 14, 2009 2:24 PM:

" I guess that as a person who received a drivers license in ND at the age of 14, all I can remember is that the 14-15 year olds weren't the problem. It was more the 17-20 year olds.

One must wonder where it will stop, for surely once we get the dangerous 14 year olds off the road, the same argument can and will be applied to remove the next age group.

Before you know it, we will be not letting people drive until they are 40, then taking it away again when they are 50. "

Parent to 2 wrote on Jan 14, 2009 10:55 AM:

" Yes, Mother of teens, it would be a really happy world if all parents would do that. But not all of them do. There are some parents out there who aren't responsible enough to teach their kids right from wrong. Let the law put an across the board age to help those parents who are irresponsible and give the responible parents' kids a couple of more years to mature even more and to be a kid.
Life isn't always fair. Just my thoughts on the subject. "

ABE wrote on Jan 14, 2009 10:43 AM:

" Frankly, I think we should be more concerned with the senior citizens who are permitted to drive. Young drivers just starting out are bound to be more careful. "

mom-of-teens wrote on Jan 13, 2009 4:34 PM:

" The only thing I really agree with about this is banning cell phone use and texting while driving; I think that handless devices should be acceptable, but it isn't just kids who text, I'm amazed at the number of adults that talk on the phone and text while driving........ it's dangerous. Also young unexperienced drivers are not the only dangers on the road. Older drivers with undiagnosed Dementia, for example, are just as dangerous. It isn't fair to put all young people in the same category just because of inexperience. The key is to have a responsible parent willing to teach their kid the RIGHT way to drive and follow it up with reinforcement or consequences for not following rules. That's with any issue and that's a parent's job. If you feel that your kid at 14 shouldn't have a license, then by all means, set a different age based on your beliefs and parenting style. But don't criticize someone else for doing things differently or criticize an adult child who attempts to stop their elderly parent from driving, for example. Just something to think about. "

Rex wrote on Jan 12, 2009 4:05 PM:

" Leave the driving age alone. Raise the legal age for cell phones and CD players in the car. "

Mom wrote on Jan 12, 2009 2:52 PM:

" I find it very interesting that North Dakota, one of the few states that allows 14 year old drivers, is also one of the states with the highest percentage of people working 2 jobs and our wages are among the lowest in the nation. Wish I didn't have to work full time, as does my husband, to make ends meet. To Krispy: my kids are my PRIORITY, but I do work. College student: you sound like a great person, certainly not a "kid". "

Nick wrote on Jan 12, 2009 12:34 PM:

" I am in no way saying that just farm kids are better drivers or any age group is better or worse than the others. I do think they should leave it alone and let it be up to the parents to decide. NO ATTACKING ANYONE HERE. As others have commented, some do better than others. I still believe that is up to the parents to decide. I got my license right away whereas a buddy of mine did not get his till 18. By his parent's choice. He did do some driving while he was not licensed. So now he was doing it illegally. What would be better? A law that says no one till they are 18 or having the parent say no till 18? If he gets caught he would have had to accept the consequences. "

ban wrote on Jan 12, 2009 10:15 AM:

" My 15 year old is no way mature enough to have a license, and that is ny responsiblity as his parent to recognize that. Suer, it would be so much easier to get him one and have him help drive his younger siblings around AND be legal to drive on our farm, but I am not going to put him on the road with those responsibilites to make my life easier. 14 year old getting cars and licenses are given them for their parents convience, some for farming purpses and some for other reasons. We have to be in charge of our kids and know their limits. Some might be surprised to see what thier kids are really mature enough to ahndel when driving, follow a couple cars of kids from Century or BHS during lunch hour and you may understand. Some kids can handle it, alot can't. What ever the State decides, it is still my decision when my kids can get their license. "

watching from afar wrote on Jan 12, 2009 7:58 AM:

" I find it incredibly insulting the way people talk to one another on the comment boards...
It is a comment board not an insult board! You wonder why there is so much hatred, look at how you all treat one another "

Chain Reaction wrote on Jan 12, 2009 7:36 AM:

" Why should farm kids be excluded? I have a brother who has 3 children (who are all grown up now) and not one of them helped on the farm very much. Once in a while they would do something to help. They just had no interest in any farm work - which is just fine, he managed pretty well without the help. Just because they live on a farm doesn't mean they can drive better.

I don't feel the law needs to be changed. If it does change, then there should be no exceptions. Why should a person be excluded because of the type of residence they live in? How would the DOT regulate this law? How would the DOT determine you can get a license by your address? Would you need some type of proof you live on a farm?

The last line of this article hits the nail on the head. "

nd rancher wrote on Jan 11, 2009 11:38 PM:

" To Personal discretion; first of all, notice your quote said 16 year olds were the highest fatality accident rate, not 14 or 15 year olds.
I have a 17 year old her got a drivers license at age 15.5 and I have a 16 year old who got a drivers license at age 14. I am not 'one of those parents' who thinks my kids are awesome drivers, my 16 year old is the better driver by far and always has been. Bet you can guess which one has helped on the place longer. "

Krispy wrote on Jan 11, 2009 11:34 PM:

" to Colledge Student too:

The whole point is plenty of us do not want these young drivers on the road just because their parents feel it was the right call for them, that is why we need this law!!! "

Krispy wrote on Jan 11, 2009 11:28 PM:

" To Parent to 2
Exactly!!!! I also want to know how these busy parents got their kids to school b/4 they turned 14? Carpools? Neighbors? Relatives? Why is 14 YOUR magic number to get out of hauling your kids around? Kids driving to Middle School? That is plain crazy to me!!! Keep these young drivers off of the road until 16!! Young teens do not have the experience that it takes to realize hey, bad things can happen to me, I am not invinceable! I love my 8 and 10 year old children way too much to have them driving at 14 for my own convienience. Don't tell me about your job schedule, MAKE YOUR CHILDREN A PRIORITY and figure it out!!!!
Oh yeah, some of you feel this decision should be left to the parents, this is scary as I have witnessed some really awful no responsibity, no discipline, no common sense teens out there raised by some of the same parents who are too busy to drive their kids around!!! Drivers licences at 16!!!!!!!!!!! Also, why rush those kids to work b/4 16, they have the rest of their lives to do that, and our great state has that law for a reason!!!! "

minnmom wrote on Jan 11, 2009 11:23 PM:

" Funny how only 2 states allow kids to get their license at 14. ND and SD. No wonder everyone outside of North Dakota thinks we North Dakotans are hicks. Many states are considering passing legislation to up the driving age to 18, but hey, North Dakota kids are WAY more mature than anywhere else. God forbid we change anything in ND...

I have heard...not sure if its true or not... that since Drivers Ed is no longer offered in school in Bismarck, that kids are not even required to take any classroom instruction, that they just take the written test and 6 hours of behind the wheel, SCARY!! "

collegestudent wrote on Jan 11, 2009 10:25 PM:

" to snap: first of all I am a college student meaning I am at least 18 and I am out mostly on my own. So kid does not describe me especially the way you said it in a condescending tone. Second I do respect my elders, as long as they respect me and there is no way to know you are an elder by your name and as far as i know i haven't met you. I also did not cite 3 people i cited 3 groups meaning more than 3 people. And last of all I agreed with you that the 14 year old brain is not fully developed. That does not mean it is not developed enough to drive and drive well.

Once again restrictions on possible distractions are the way to go, not just taking it away completely. "

JT wrote on Jan 11, 2009 7:35 PM:

" If they are going to change the driving age to 16, then anyone over 60 needs to re-take their road test every other year! A lot of those older drivers are a lot worse than the younger ones. I got my license @ 14, been driving for 20 years, have never been in an accident, or had a speeding ticket, have had 1 parking ticket. If you teach your children the rules of the road, they will learn. Those 60 year old and older are the ones that need to get off the street - hence the 80 year old driver that hit someone and "didn't know it". "

Sunny D wrote on Jan 11, 2009 4:49 PM:

" I just do not see the need for most 'kids' to need to drive at age 14 or 15. The kids from the farms are a different story because, I do know that most of them have been driving in their fields, have driven tractors and pickups back and forth since they turned 12 or so because they had to.
We have enough 'idiots' behind the wheel with some of the adults driving right now. How many will speed up to pass you on I-94 and then pull in front of you only to turn off in the next three seconds to make that turn they had planned on taking before they passed you? Look in the mirror, some of you just did it to me yesterday!

I know they will never up the age for the kids but, maybe by writing this a few of the parents will begin to understand they could be letting their child be killed by letting them drive too soon! Every child should have a chance to grow up! And please parents, tell your child that they are not to talk on the cell phone at all while driving! I have seen far to many accidents caused by young people on their cells. Not just teenagers but, mostly those under the age of thirty. "

Snap wrote on Jan 11, 2009 4:50 AM:

" How is calling a kid a kid disrespectful? Holy cow, you young folks sure are big in your britches! I remember when young folk respected their elders as betters! And I'l tell you somethin else, you'll miss it someday! I wish somebody could call me kid again, but I'm older than everybody else!
Now look here, three personal acqaintences don't mean nothin! Why don't you do that college thing and go look up some facts about the 14 year old brain. And, why the heck would anybody trust the decisions of their neighbors? Heck, do you read the papers? You cant trust nobody! Now, get them 14 year olds a new schwin or a huffy but not a car! "

Nick wrote on Jan 10, 2009 9:51 PM:

" Lets just re-invent the wheel too while we are redoing every other thing that already works. We don't have enough to do so we can find a way to re-invent things that have already proven to work. Get a sense here people. Way more things to worry about than the little things. "

collegestudent wrote on Jan 10, 2009 9:51 PM:

" to snap: First please do not disrespect me by calling me a kid. Second while the brain might not be fully developed that does not mean they are not able to drive and drive well. I know 14 year olds that are more mature and responsible than some 16 year olds, 18 year olds, even some of my fellow college students. It has a lot to do with how they were raised by their parents. Their parents should be the ones who decide this issue and if you cant trust your neighbors to make this decision then i suggest you go live in a bubble somewhere. There are risks with everything driving included. Deal with it.

And for the record yes i do still think 14 year old should be able to drive "

Snap wrote on Jan 10, 2009 6:31 PM:

" collegestudent:

hey kid It's not just an opinion! Read up on brain development and age and you won't want 14 year olds on the road either! "

collegestudent wrote on Jan 10, 2009 4:50 PM:

" to snap: You make the argument that you dont want to drive with 14 year olds on the road. Well I dont want to drive with you on the road so therefor you should not be able to drive by your argument. You dont know these kids but you say they should not be able to drive. Well I dont know you but I dont want you to drive either. So you shouldn't drive.

To Personal Discretion: You are correct crash rates of young drivers are higher than other age groups. However this law wont fix that many of the crashes are caused by inexperience. Before even thinking about raising the age the legislature should consider increasing the amount of time behind the wheel with a teacher first I agree that 6 hours of behind the wheel is not enough to learn how to drive. Some kids get their license just driving this amount of time and that does scare me. They should raise this number along with the passenger and cell phone restrictions but NOT raise the driving age at this time. "

18 wrote on Jan 10, 2009 3:38 PM:

" They should change it to 18 the less drivers on the road.....the safer the road. "

Snap wrote on Jan 10, 2009 5:10 AM:

" " I can only say, when someone is born, God has it planned when they will go"

Okay, now I know we;ve taken the fast train to crazy town! And by the way, LOL!!! "

Snap wrote on Jan 10, 2009 5:08 AM:

" "Don't like it don't read it, as you say to others!!!!"

I have never written that!

"it isn't yours or parent of 2 to tell me how to raise my own kid"
And it's not for you to tell me that I have to drive around with your child driving on the same street! Now, if you "feel" your 14 year old is mature enough to drive, fine! But I don't! I would love the state to legislate that children stay where they
belong . . .on bikes! "

minnmom wrote on Jan 9, 2009 11:06 PM:

" TK, you can not truly believe that. You say no more legislation...so why should we have any laws? Why is murder illegal if it is all part of the plan? Why not let 2 year olds drive? Your argument is silly. "

TK wrote on Jan 9, 2009 10:03 PM:

" I can only say, when someone is born, God has it planned when they will go, riding a motorcycle w/ no helmet, being 14-16 yrs of age and driving or being 34 and dying of a heart attack - we are all put on this earth w/ a plan and no matter what intervention you want, there is a superior that overrides everyones plan! NO MORE LEGISLATION!!! "

Personal discretion wrote on Jan 9, 2009 4:22 PM:

" To all of you out there who claim "little Susie drove at 12 and was fine", "my 14 yo child is very mature and a wonderful driver" etc...reread this statement: "The motivation for raising the driving age from 14 to 16 is to counter very real statistics. 16 year old have a higher crash rate than drivers OF ANY OTHER AGE and are 3 TIMES AS LIKELY TO DIE in any crash than the average of ALL DRIVERS." I'm sure the parent of every child in this age group who died in automobile accident (and was driving) thought their child was a wonderful driver, too. Think about it and appreciate the fact your child isn't a statistic. "

TK to Snap wrote on Jan 9, 2009 4:20 PM:

" You can always be sarcastic - different tune when its someone else!!! Don't like it don't read it, as you say to others!!!! Personally you just like to pick to start an argument - I don't need another law telling me how to raise my kids - he isn't sitting on his duff, walking the mall, or on the computer or playing video games - he is learning responsibility and if some don't like it tough, it isn't yours or parent of 2 to tell me how to raise my own kid. Get over it!!! Oh and LOL!!! "

Snap wrote on Jan 9, 2009 3:47 PM:

" TK, just cause you and your parents got lucky doesnt make it right! Yes, putting kids in a vehicle with no brakes is plumb irresponsible! We got kids dying every year on these farms while riding 3 wheelers and 4 wheelers and the like! I bet if one of your siblings or a friend had died in a vehicle with no brakes you'd be singing a different tune! I'm glad you've been working since 9 years old! Good for you! But you ain't everybody, so enough with the sarcasm! "

TK to Parent to 2 wrote on Jan 9, 2009 2:25 PM:

" And BTW, you think farm kids aren't working but out running around with their friends having fun - guess again - came from there actually I have been driving a vehicle since I was 9 years old and knock on wood have yet to have an accident. How dare my parents shirk their responsiblity by putting us in a grain truck to drive home that had no brakes - they should've been reported for child abuse! And dad should have quit in the field 2 hours ahead of time so we didn't have to take the pickup to get the milk cows home!!! Oh the horror... I was so deprived!!! LOL!!! "

Parent to 2 wrote on Jan 9, 2009 11:16 AM:

" TK--I never stated anyone is a bad parent. Don't be so defensive. I do not have all the time in the world; I simply believe it is the parents' job to haul their kids around (or find other legal and safe methods) until they are legally able to drive on their own, and safely. And I bet you are enjoying your freedom from not having to do it anymore, aren't you?
What's the rush to have your 14 year old working? If you aren't able to drive them to their job, then don't let them have a job. Let them be a kid for a couple of extra years and have fun with their friends and concentrate on school.
Why would you put the huge responsibilty of driving--- and God forbid-- an accident, on a 14 year old? "

minnmom wrote on Jan 9, 2009 9:51 AM:

" I grew up in Bismarck, and like most other kids my age got my liscence at 14. But times have changed, there is much more traffic on the roads as well as more distractions such as ipod and cell phones. Many states are now looking at further restricting driving privelages of 16 year old drivers. Minnesota recemtly passed a law stating that for the first 6 months of driving, only one passenger is allowed in the car. By the way, Minnesota has huge areas of rural populations,and even in the cities public transportation is not a reliable method of transportation for most kids. What do we do? We deal with it, we carpool, we actually use our school busing system, and we manage to get our 14 and 15 years olds where they need to be. It is time for North Dakota to come out of the dark ages...and not be so resistant to change. Your 14 year old may be responsible enough to drive, but most are not. "

TK to Parent of 2 wrote on Jan 9, 2009 8:10 AM:

" You evidently have all the time in the world to be at point A and go to point B, I however do not. You have your opinion and I have mine. My 14 yr. old hold a parttime job and does an excellent job at driving. Funny how even the test instructor told my husband what an excellent driver he was!!! It is every parents decision - it doesn't mean I love my kid less or don't worry about them. Stop trying to say you are a bad parent if your kid has a license - just cause you don't want your kid to, fine, we made a different choice!!! "

Nick wrote on Jan 9, 2009 7:58 AM:

" I was probably 10 or 12 when I started driving a 2 1/2 ton truck filled with valuable cargo. It was not on public roads but I really think that that helped because you had to be very careful not to go too fast and hit a low spot or you risk spilling the vehicle. In the rural areas some of the ranchers really depend on their children to be able to help out. (I suppose younger kids shouldn't be allowed to work) But to another side of that schools for some that are 35 miles out or so for some of the kids they really need to be able to drive. Yes, accidents do and have happened but that is part of life. We simply cannot regulate every aspect of life by making laws. "

Compromise wrote on Jan 8, 2009 8:11 PM:

" To Collegestudenttoo:

Correct me if I am wrong, but you make it sound like that if you had your way, parents would be the only ones who determine when their child gets his/her license. My question to you is do you trust every other parent out there to make the correct decision? What if they just don't care or really want the kid out of their hair? Is that a good enough reason to let a 14, 15, or 16 year old have a license? "

collegestudent wrote on Jan 8, 2009 5:59 PM:

" to "to collegestudent" the 5 state number came from another post that I was refuting. that said the other 45 states that have a higher driving age are most likely much more urban than we are here. That was not my point however, my point is North Dakota does not have the public transportation system in place in it's cities much less the rural areas to do this.

The legal working age is 14, so at 14 you can get a job but you cant get to or from that job barring some miracle that the business is near a bus route and your hours match the bus schedule.

To "Parent to 2" as i said at 14 a kid is able to get a job further adding to the activities of that kid. My parents would do anything for me but in many cases it was impractical if not impossible to come get me from school during their work day and take me to an event be it soccer, basketball, or golf practice or games, or my job. Why cant I have a license to loosen the load on my parents who still come support me when they can. Also are you saying that any parent who can't do everything for there child is a bad parent? because that is what it sounds like.

Once again I say Restrictions are fine I even support that, but raising the driving age is impractical for the state we live in. "

Snap wrote on Jan 8, 2009 4:33 PM:

" collegestudenttoo, I would like you to scroll down and read my first post! "

Chad wrote on Jan 8, 2009 4:29 PM:

" I would not raise the age limit. Some (not all) 14-15 year olds are mature enough to drive and have very legitimate reasons for needing a license.

Most states don't allow 14 and 15 year olds to drive. However, most states also aren't as rural and sparsely populated. Most states also have more alternative modes of transportation. It's a risk, but I'm willing to allow a lower age limit in our state to overcome some of these obstacles.

With that said, I'd support lots of restrictions on teen drivers (cell phones, # of passengers, hours of the day, ect.), and I admire parents who already impose these restrictions on their kids. "

collegestudenttoo wrote on Jan 8, 2009 4:13 PM:

" Some 14 year olds are more mature than the 24 year olds I know. It's an issue of whether or not parents deem their son or daughter ready for that responsibility. If you don't think your kid is ready, then don't let them get their license, it's as simple as that. It's not something that the government should regulate. It's a case by case basis. Kid A lives on a farm and needs to have a license. Kid B is wise beyond his or her years, has been forced to grow up quickly and needs a license because he or she needs to have a job due to family issues or parents working late to try to make ends meet or whatever the case may be. Kid C has ideal parents with all the time in the world to give he or she rides anywhere their heart desires, Kid D is an irresponsible juvenile delinquent. Ok, kid A and B should be able to get their license and kids D and C shouldnt. Every situation is different and a law should not be applied to everyone. No one is forcing parents to let their son or daughter drive at 14, its completely their call. "

Parent to 2 wrote on Jan 8, 2009 4:13 PM:

" Collegestudent:
These 14 year olds do have parents or legal guardians. How do 13 year olds get around? Parents. It is the parents' responsibility to take their kids to and from places, just like they did when their kids were 13.
But ohmygosh, to legally force a parent to be responsible and have to trek their kids around until they're 15 or 16 should be banned!
Again, it's the parents who want their freedom just as much as the 14 year olds. That is too young of an age to handle driving. "

to collegestudent wrote on Jan 8, 2009 3:51 PM:

" please get some facts on your comments. what are the 5 states? lets look at their transportation systems. are you trying to tell me that the 45 states have no rural populations? i guess there is only large metro areas with public transportation systems in those states. the entire state is a city? which argument is ND going to use? "

collegestudent wrote on Jan 8, 2009 12:09 PM:

" One more thing I was able to get a job and save money for college because I had my license. Some 14 year olds would still be able to do this but many would not. I will now graduate with at least 4 thousand dollars less debt than i would have if i did not get my license at 14 and had to wait until 16.

Restrictions are fine: no cell phones, No passengers even more driving time before being allowed to get your license all of these could be done and would lower distractions and risks for everyone, but you should still be able to get your license. "

collegestudent wrote on Jan 8, 2009 12:04 PM:

" Until there is a public transportation system that will be of reasonable use to most people there is no way this law will should pass. How do you expect a kid to learn about life when they don't have any responsibilities. You cannot reasonable have a job at 14 or 15 if you have no way to get to and from it, and don't say anything about public transportation because most of the state doesn't have it and the CAT is almost worthless for most people. We may be 1 of only 5 states that people to drive at 14, but that is because in many cases they need to. These other 45 states most likely have viable public transportation that make this possible.

The state cannot raise the driving age until there is a viable public transportation system for the majority of the state. "

M To ND Rancher wrote on Jan 8, 2009 10:42 AM:

" It is a simple, undeniable fact that rural areas of North Dakota are becoming less and less populated, as well as aging. It is also a fact that the large cities such as Bismarck and Fargo are growing. The state population generally stays the same, with an increase according to an article a few weeks ago. I guess i really didn't mean move the ranch here. lol "

Mom wrote on Jan 8, 2009 9:38 AM:

" In a study released July 2008 by the Upper Great Plains Transportation Institute at NDSU, the majority of motor vehicle accidents in North Dakota involved male drivers. Perhaps the legislature should restrict this group from driving. "

Mom wrote on Jan 8, 2009 9:16 AM:

" To Never Too Much - I certainly wish I could "take time off from work to take the kids where they need to be." Unfortunately, I work at one of our hospitals, 7:30 AM to 4:30 PM Monday through Friday. I will be here to care for you and your family if you are ill. I want my kids to be able to participate in before and after school activities such as SADD, Student Council, sports activities, dance and to hold their parttime jobs.. My 17 year old daughter has been driving since she was 14. She has never had an accident or even a ticket. I will expect the same from my son when he turns 14. They are A students - how can you say they shouldn't drive? You don't know my kids. "

Snap wrote on Jan 8, 2009 1:32 AM:

" And I'll tell you what else! I'm glad somebody else raise d7 "perfect" children! But that don't mean the other couple of thousand are ready to drive at 14! And Bismarck ain't no small town of gravel roads with one traffic light either! Gimmee a break! Gimmee a break! Keep the gol-durn children off the road! "

dr. ed. wrote on Jan 7, 2009 11:26 PM:

" As a former Driver's Ed. teacher; I would fully support raising the age limit to 15 and maybe even 16. My experience teaching Dr. Ed. to hundred's of kids over the years got worse every year. Most of them never realized the danger's with getting their license and being on the road. All they saw & thought was the joy rides & hauling friends around; not realizing what a weapon they were in. I believe we are 1 of 5 states that allow 14 yr. olds to get their license. Looking out for the safety of our children and making kids be more responsible & show more maturity before they get their license is a good thing. "

Parent to 2 wrote on Jan 7, 2009 9:35 PM:

" How did your 13 year olds get around? Suddenly now that they turn 14 it's okay to turn them loose on the road because you see that magic age as the key to your freedom and not having to haul them around anymore, right?
I think that's truly where a lot of the support for keeping it 14 comes from---parents who are looking forward to THEIR freedom (from responsibility). "

retest wrote on Jan 7, 2009 8:11 PM:

" I think the idea of retesting periodically is a great idea. In fact I think it might be a good idea to continue to test every 4 or 8 year during the driving career. Christmas day I was driving to my in-laws with my 3 kids and my niece. We watched as the gal passing us was texting and then we counted the times she crossed the center line and then the white line on the outside. I don't care if she was 16 or 36, she was a danger on the road. Many of the eldery drivers are actually far worse than the kids, they could use some testing to see if they still have the skills needed to handle a vehicle. "

hhhhhhhhmmmmmmmmmmm wrote on Jan 7, 2009 6:36 PM:

" raised 7 kids..all had license at age 14..non had accidents...they had a 30 mile drive to school and another 30 mile drive home..no buses came to our small town...will they then provide transportation for all these kids...to this day my children are responsible..up to the parent to be responsible for when they put the kid behind the wheel...they can be good drivers..we have adults who shouldnt be behind a wheel either...gov..back off "

Never Too Much wrote on Jan 7, 2009 5:48 PM:

" The majority of teenagers here in Bismarck drive like they have had little,
if any instruction on how to drive a vehicle. That along with the cellphones
and texting while driving . . . lawmakers can not put enough restrictions on
the teenage drivers to make our roads safer. If the parents can afford
cars for th ekids to drive, then the parents can afford to take off from work
to take the kids where they need to be. "

Snap wrote on Jan 7, 2009 5:07 PM:

" I don't want parents to make the decision because they are also making decisions for me! Just because a parent thinks it's okay for his/her 14 year old to drive dosn't mean I want to deal with a child behind the wheel of a half ton vehicle! 14 year olds belong on bikes! "

ND rancher wrote on Jan 7, 2009 4:36 PM:

" To "m" when did your 'fact' take place that rural is moving into the bigger cities of nd? If so, my entire ranch moved!?!
The age a minor takes drivers ed, tests for a permit, or for a license is strictly up to the parents. We have gotten away from the accountability of raising our kids! And more and more we are looking to government or schools, etc. to take on that responsibility.
As far as a 16 year old being a better driver than a 14 year old, that is completely relative. As the parent of 3 teens, I know that age has little to do with their capabilities.
Come on people, let's be more involved parents and be willing to decide for our children! "

lower it wrote on Jan 7, 2009 3:27 PM:

" lower it to 65. i dont want anyone driving who is older than that. Also let's push for those who are retired to not be able to drive between the hours of noon and 1. "

Former kid wrote on Jan 7, 2009 3:21 PM:

" Leave the issue of what age the kids start driving up to the parents. We don't need another law or a change in the law. I got my license shortly after turning 14. Nearly 30 years later, I still have yet to be the cause of an accident. I'm a good driver, and was when I was 14. I grew up with a farm background, so the license at age 14 was a mere formality. I actually started driving the old 3/4 ton Chevy truck with the manual tranny at 8 years old when I was tall enough to reach the pedals and see over the dash at the same time. My dad taught me well. He hammered it home that when I'm driving a car or truck, THAT is my job, not jabbering or fiddling with the radio or messing with the mirrors or eating. (Cell phones would have been strictly off limits had they existed at the time.) I realize that very few of us these days have nearly the amount of common sense and practicality of the previous generation, but can't we TRY to do it right? My oldest got her license at 14. My 9 year old will learn to drive this summer at my farm. I guess if the law changes, she'll just drive without a license 2 years longer than her old man did... "

Raise The Age wrote on Jan 7, 2009 3:19 PM:

" The State should stop "texting" for the driver of all vehicles, regardless of age.
Why stop the suggested age for driving at 16? Lawmakers shoud raise the
suggested age to 17 or maybe 18. (Must be a high school graduate) before you
can get a drivers llicense. Most teenager are too imature, careless and irresponsible to be driving before they get out of High School anyway. The more restrictions on teenage driving the better! "

David wrote on Jan 7, 2009 3:13 PM:

" To Compromise: "TOUCHE" "

m wrote on Jan 7, 2009 2:39 PM:

" i hope it passes. it would lift some of the pressure of parents who parent to those who don't. how do you explain to your 14 year old that "yes, i know most of your friends have their license, but you need to wait". same with clothing, curfews and so on. 14 is way to young. rural nature of nd? it is a fact rural is moving into the bigger cities of nd, 14 is outdated. with all the cellphone and texting nowadays, young drivers are only worse from even just a few years ago with distractions and such. my friends from other states can't believe how young the drivers are here. unheard of in many other states. parents need to return to being involved in their teens life, giving them free access to driving all over creation does not help, and would bet there is a coralation between underage drinking...just going off of personal experiences. i wonder if the car dealerships, insurance agents and others have a stake in this? money talks and is usually the root of most decisions. "

Compromise wrote on Jan 7, 2009 1:17 PM:

" As for cell phone use, I know it is a necessary part of life for most people, me included, but a hands free device should be required at the minimum. And this is for all ages. Drivers of all ages seem to have trouble navigating the streets while talking on their cell phones. Remember behind the wheel training? Both hands on the wheel! A hands free device will allow this and still allow you to talk while driving, If you have both hands on the wheel, you will be paying more attention to your driving. To me this is a very doable compromise to all-out cell phone bans while driving. "

Compromise wrote on Jan 7, 2009 1:09 PM:

" Seems like there are valid arguments both for and against raising the minimum driving age. And as much as I don't want more government interference in our daily lives, the government is the entity issuing the drivers licenses. How many 14, 15, and16 year olds do the required behind-the-wheel training, classroom education, and practice with parental supervision, and get their license, only to disregard the basics of safe driving (speeding, weaving in and out of traffic, talking or texting with their cell phone, following to close, etc)? While these issues are not strictly a teenage driving problem, early habits in their driving career (both good and bad) tend to stick. My thought on this is to continue to allow 14,15,16 year olds to receive their license to drive, but mandate a retest on their driving skills or take the safe driving course. As much as we don't want the govt. sticking its nose in our business, lets face it. Not all parents care what their kids do once they drive away nor do they care how they drive doing it. This world isn't the same as it was 20, 30, or more years ago. Life is more complicated and there are more
threats. To those that think I am just picking on the young drivers, I also think we should retest older drivers although maybe at a lesser interval. Maybe every 4 or 5 years. Lets remember driving is a privilege, not a right. "

Del wrote on Jan 7, 2009 12:09 PM:

" Let's see, Would I be able to get up at 6:00, jump on a bus and be to school at 7:00. Nope. Would I have been able to get on a bus after school (3:10), go home, eat change, jump on another bus and be to work at 4:00? I don't think so.

Would I have been able to get of of work at 11:00, get on a bus, get home, do my homework, and get to bed by 12:00 so that I could get up at six in the morning and do it all over again? I don't think so since THE BUS ROUTS END AT 6:30!!!!

Gosh, everything seems so wonderful, until you look at the facts and realize that not everyone lives in a perfect world and that one size does not fit all. "

Single Mom wrote on Jan 7, 2009 11:30 AM:

" I have a 14 yr old daughter who was allowed to get her permit after taking her classroom training. She fully understands that at 15 she can take behind the wheel with a licence to follow SOMETIME after that, when I feel it is best for her. I don't need the government making that decision for me. And honestly, it would be a blessing if she could drive now due to her activities but we're lucky enough to have an amazing set of grandparents who help with all the driving to everything when I am at work. When I feel she is ready to drive alone, she will. Leave things as they are and let the parents decide what is best for their child. "

to Del wrote on Jan 7, 2009 11:08 AM:

" Del, they have city bus routes now if an abused kid needs to go to school or one of his jobs...
I think the driving age should be 16. No younger. One blogger reminded me about how things shouldn't be rushed. Isn't that one of the arguements why some parents think their kids need all those extra days off from school every month? Why rush them into the real world?? Driving is a huge deal and shouldn't be taken lightly. 14 is too young to understand the consequences of the real world type of car accidents. "

Online Editor wrote on Jan 7, 2009 11:02 AM:

" To DD and collegestudenttoo: Please choose a single username and stick to it. Using multiple names makes the conversation difficult to follow. "

collegestudenttoo wrote on Jan 7, 2009 10:57 AM:

" I got my license 2 weeks after I turned 15. Some of my friends had their licenses when they were 14. No one I know died, or even was involved in an accident really. Its more an issue of parenting that determines what age someone can drive. Heck, a 12 year old could probably drive just fine with enough instruction. As long as parents are willing to spend some time driving with their kids it's definitely not a problem.

14 and 15 year olds are mature enough to handle it, they're not "children" at that point. I wouldn't trade that extra year of freedom I had for anything. And really I think it helps people become more independent and think for themselves at an earlier age; a skill that an astonishing number of people seem to lack going into college.

At 18 most people are on their own and go to college and need to drive longer distances more frequently. Would it be better for them to have 2 years of driving under their belt or up to 3 and a half years of driving experience (and practice in winter conditions as well)?

Keep the minimum age 14 and a half. If parents dont think their kid is responsible enough then let it be their decision. Every situation and every individual is unique; lets keep the options open for those who need/want their license earlier.

PS: Rather than a minimum age I think we should be considering a maximum age for driving. Im not sure about statistics but in my experience, Ive never been hit or come close to being hit on foot or in my car by anyone who looked to be between the ages of 14 and 16, however its a different story with those over 70. "

DD wrote on Jan 7, 2009 10:52 AM:

collegestudent wrote on Jan 7, 2009 10:26 AM:

" This article is great and I hope the legislature listens. Restrictions on passengers and even time that you are allowed to drive are fine but taking away the ability of high school students to get to school and work is ridiculous. I got my permit when I was 14 and my license 6 months later and have had no problems. Without my license getting to and from school would have been nearly impossible as both my parents are at work by the time school starts and still there when it gets out. Not to mention the after school sports and clubs I was in, oh the job I got to save money for college. It is impractical and impossible for parents to try and do all of this.

This decision should be left to the parents because some 14 year olds are ready to drive and some arent but the legislature doesnt know if they are or arent ready, but the parents do.

You also cannot except farm kids from the law, while I completely agree they are needed on the farm I feel kids in cities have just as much need for driving as a farm kid.

To Concerned Parent: If you feel that your 14 is old is not ready to drive then dont let him it is really as simple as that. "

middle class wrote on Jan 7, 2009 10:10 AM:

" To me it looks like this law wouldn't be necessary if parents would be more responsible. Our children received their licence's at 15 or 16 years of age. During and before this time they spent many hours driving with their parents in the car.
Occasionally, they needed to drive to school which you might say were their first solo flights. The car was to be driven to school, parked, and then driven home again. At no time were they allowed to have any passengers. These rules were well understood and any violations would have immediately revoked their driving privileges. If our children would have had cell phones during that time, they would have had to turn them off while driving. No exceptions. "

Del wrote on Jan 7, 2009 10:06 AM:

" I was 16 when I moved out on my own because of an abusive parent. I could have gone into a foster home, but that could have been even worse, who knows. I went to school and worked two jobs to pay for my rent, utilities, food, car insurance, gas, ect. I needed to dive to be able to do this. Being able to finish High School allowed me to go to college and become successful.

I hear people say that we should raise the driving age to 18. What do you say to kids that are like I was that need a car to get by? What if someone is 15 and in that situation?

Not everyone lives in a perfect world where a one size solution fits all. These one size fits all approaches sure sound all warm and fuzzy until you look at the consequences. "

David wrote on Jan 7, 2009 10:04 AM:

" I feel the age is too young. My two have both waited until 15 for the permit and 16 for the license. Young people are too pre-occupied with the distractions of cell phones and their music. They have also not yet learned the need for patience and driver courtesy. I've also seen more middle aged and especially older drivers who should be retested or have their license suspended. Running red lights, not signaling and swerving into the next lane are what I see the middle and older generations are doing. You want to fix driver problems then you better focus alot more on the older people who are definately in need of retesting and continued monitoring. "

cs wrote on Jan 7, 2009 9:05 AM:

" As a parent of 3 (one is close to driving age), an emt who works for a county ambulance service, and someone who lives on a rural farm, i question raising the driving age. Living on a farm we have a need for our children, when they become older, to help out by driving certain vehicles. As an emt i have seen too many under age drivers make mistakes driving and die because of them. This double edge sword is a problem.
My personal belief is to make the requirements of young drivers (14-17) more stricter, make the testing process harder, have the rules in place that major and minor mistakes result in suspension, or limitations on their license. Have them retest every six months, take defensive driving courses. Restrict driving hours, and who can ride with them (only family). Have required lectures on results of what happens when drivers make mistakes and people die, show them the bloody scenes of accidents. Give them a proper education on driving and make punishments tougher. "

Concerned Parent wrote on Jan 7, 2009 8:21 AM:

" As a parent of a teenager who will be 14 shortly, I think it is absolutely ridiculous that a child have a permit to drive. At 14 we are not talking about young adults, we are talking about children, and I have to hear how each one of these children already has their permit! Good for them, I will not allow my child to drive, I will however, let my young adult 16 year old drive. They will have their permit for a minimum of 1 year, will take drivers education, will have restricted driving hours and destinations until they reach the age of 18. I think it is completely absurd that parents allow their children to drive when they have 2, 3 or even 4 cars and licensed, experienced drivers at home, get off your butt and run your child to school, activities, friends houses, whatever, at least you know they arrived safe. Are you really that busy not to ensure the safety of your child? Its not that I do not trust my child, its like work, why rush them into something that they will have to do their entire adulthood. I am not saying I am a perfect driver but there are more than enough bad drivers to make up for the good drivers. Keep your child safe and keep them off the roads for as long as you can. Just my opinion and I do agree with the Tribune. "

TK wrote on Jan 7, 2009 8:11 AM:

" Your right on the mark - I don't need another government law telling me how to raise my children. This is a parental decision and should remain as such - almost was hit and killed right before Christmas by a middle aged driver that ran the red light by Expressway and Thayer in his brand new 3/4 ton pickup, it is definately not just the "young" drivers!!! "

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