OPINION — Getting a driver’s license means freedom for teenagers, but for parents, it can bring fear and anxiety. In 2024, 2,320 teen drivers ages 15 to 18 died in auto crashes and more than 80,000 were injured.
Passing a driving test is just the beginning. In Arizona, teens generally need 30 hours of supervised driving practice, but operating a vehicle isn’t the same as making safe decisions in unpredictable situations.
Sudden stops or lane changes, unpredictable pedestrians and weather issues can quickly create dangerous situations for new drivers. Quality driver education helps teens learn to recognize hazards and respond safely.
