In contemporaty times, safe driving is deemed to be a matter of utmost importance among the public populace. While there are those who argue that raising the minimum licit age for driving automobiles or riding motorbikes is the most optimal approach, I am of the opinion that there are better panaceas for the promotion of road safety.
Notably, it is understandable why some individuals advocate for fostering the minimum legitimate driving age. They argue that younger drivers, due to their lack of experience and maturity, are more prone to irresponsible and reckless driving and commit life-threatening violations. Besides, the increased age requirement would allow road users more time to enhance their driving skills before obtaining a license. As they gain more knowledge and experience, they may become more responsible drivers, culminating in more informed decisions on the road.
Conversely, I opine that there are more efficacious methods to ameliorate road safety. Age is not the only determinant given that experienced drivers can also engage in road offenses. Instead of focusing solely on age, a more comprehensive approach would be to educate all traffic participants about road safety and the consequences of careless driving. This would empower road participants to make more responsible decisions while commuting. Another better fix is imposing stricter penalties for those breaking traffic laws ranging from hefty fines to imprisonment. These punitive measures convey a strong message that such behavior will receive zero tolerance, and thus acts as a deterrent for potential lawbreakers.
In conclusion, while the increase in the lawful driving age may confer some merits in minimizing younger, less experienced drivers on the road, it is not the most fruitful solution to bolster road safety. A more holistic approach that involves educating all traffic participants about road safety and imposing more stringent penalties for traffic violations would yield more desired results.