A teenager’s 15th and 16th birthday are big milestones in their life. At 15, many states allow teens to apply for their learners permit, and at 16, they can take their drivers test for their license.

  Every year, these new drivers join other drivers and become one with the road. As much as this scares experienced drivers, it is a fact that they will have to share the roads with teen drivers. But how do teenagers cope with the stress of driving for the first time in their life?

  Freshman Carson Rardin, a relatively new driver, said, ”I was pretty nervous. I didn’t know what it would be like driving on the real road for the first time and if people would get mad at me.”

  Rardin also elaborated on what is the most troubling part about driving. He said, “The most troubling part is predicting what other cars will do and when to make certain decisions.”

  Another aspect that teenage drivers struggle with while behind the wheel is distractions. Senior driver, Max Naemura said that distractions come in the form of his music and his phone. He said, “To minimize distractions, I try to keep the volume of my music at a reasonable level and turn my phone on silent so that it does not beep while I am in the car.”

  Freshman Caden Robertson, who recently got his permit, stated that driving with his mom is a distraction because she talks to him while he is  driving. He said, “I know she is trying to help me, but I have to focus on the road. I know this will get easier as I become more experienced.”

  Learning to drive is a right of passage that most teens eagerly want to do. With this enthusiasm for learning to drive comes great responsibility and a new freedom. Teens are taught to follow the rules of the road, create good driving habits and limit distractions while behind the wheel.

Evan Naemura, Guest Reporter