Teens are most likely eager to get their license in the span of the high school year. Reasons may be freedom, independence, or a possible new car. When it comes to reality, the expectation of a teen’s own personal car is the perception of safety and responsibility.
Initially, the help of a car is to get you to-and-from. Especially for a first car, teens should ideally be moral to save money and be cautious as a new driver. Teens often come across receiving a second-hand vehicle, as it is sometimes more practical financially. In other situations, some other teens get to experience a brand new car that is advanced in safety features and reliability.
A brand new car might not always be the first option. In fact, Jeryl Umali, Pearl City Midas auto mechanic, said that “A used car that’s not too old will be the best first car for a teen.” Umali suggests that if a brand new car were to come to mind, a good model is a Toyota Corolla. The number one factor that Umali looks at as a mechanic is safety, stating, “If the used vehicle has decent mileage around 30 to 40 thousand miles, then it should be low maintenance and should get the teen to their desired places.”
According to Kelly Bluebook, “Teen wrecks and crash deaths are unreasonably high. In fact, motor vehicle crashes are the third leading cause of teenage deaths.” Newly licensed teens are especially at crash risk, particularly during the first months of attaining licensure. This concern could be the reason why parents invest in a brand-new, reliable vehicle.
Campbell Senior, Kaira Sakai, stated that she is fortunate to have a passed-down car that is actually her own to use, because she understands that not everyone will have the privilege; some might have to share a vehicle with their sibling or parent. Sakai doesn’t mind using a passed-down car, just as long as it’s reliable.
In the end, whether it’s a hand-me-down or something straight from the dealership, a teen’s first car should reflect more than just excitement; it should represent safety, responsibility, and practicality. As new drivers take on the road, making smart choices with the help of parents and experts can pave the way for a safer, smoother start to their independence.
