> > > > What do you think about this:
> > > > In Hawaii, it is illegal for anyone under 18 to drive, even if they have a valid driver's license in another state. Comments?
> > > > Howard
> >
> > I believe that the law is similar in NYC (although I could be wrong). It makes a lot of sense to me there - loads of traffic, crazy drivers. A higher driving age makes for fewer drivers, if nothing else. However, I'm not sure I understand the reasoning for it in Hawaii.
> >
> > >A 16-18 year old licensed driver from another state should be alowed to retest and obtain a Hawaiian license. This test could be more stringent than the standard test, since the driver is younger. It would, therefore, most likely only be worth it for new residents, as who would want to worry about studying and scheduling time to test during their weeklong vacation.
> > >
> > > Tra "just a thought" nio
> >
> > Well, that brings up a couple of interesting points. First of all, how would you feel as a 17 year old who's lived in Hawaii all your life, having a 16 year old move into town and they're allowed to get a licsence, but you aren't?
> >
>
> Well, I'd be sad and cry my eyes out.
>
> > On the other hand, who's to say that a 18 year old with little driving experience is going to be a better driver than a 17 year old who moves in with a year of driving experience? Where's the line between driving experience and life experience.
> >
>
> That's the problem with every law that grants certain priveleges simply based upon someone chronological status. There are always going to be individuals who just shouldn't be driving or drinking when they're legally able to. But any other type of regulation would just be too costly to incorporate. Imagine having to evaluate the entire population as to their psychological readiness toward either of these activities. It's the "easy out". Simply draw a line, and once you cross it, you're in. It has worked adequately so far; so if it's not broke...
>
>
> > So, to answer Howard's question, I have mixed feelings about all of this.
> >
> > Luisa
>
>
> Tra "I can easily understand reasons for and against allowing them to drive; I guess that's why we vote on things like this." nio

What I am hearing is that upping the age of drivers a bit is justified even if does bother us a little.
That sounds good to me. However, if it had happened when I was just turning 16, I would have screamed my head off at the unfairness of it.
I would have been right, too, because in those days there was less traffic. Almost all highways were two lanes, cars were slower and driving was not the big responsibility that it is now. I don't think drugs and alcohol were quite as big a deal then either. Most drunks got drunk withing walking (staggering?) distance of home. Kids had more respect for their parents and if you got in trouble driving you worried more about your parents than the police. Times have changed. For the record, I turned 16 in August 1949.
Howard