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Agree or disagree TransportGovernmentCrime Essay #199
Writing Task 2

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task. Write about the following topic:

Some people think that the best way to increase road safety is to increase the minimum legal age for driving cars and riding motorbikes.

To what extent Do you agree or disagree?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

Use the plan, then compare with Band 9.
345 words · 4 paragraphs
Introduction

Paraphrase topic on increasing driving age for safety. State opinion: it can help but isn't the best solution.

There exists a belief among a certain segment of society that the most effective method to enhance road safety is by raising the minimum legal age for driving cars and motorbikes. While I concur that increasing the minimum legal age could potentially improve road safety, I contest the notion that it is the paramount solution.

Body 1 · View 1

Explain how raising the age can increase safety. Point: Young drivers' inexperience/recklessness leads to accidents (mention study showing higher fatal crash rates for young drivers). Point: More time for thorough driver education.

Undeniably, raising the minimum legal age for driving could reduce the number of accidents on the road. Younger drivers, due to their lack of experience, are often more prone to reckless behavior and poor decision-making, which can lead to accidents. For instance, according to a study by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, drivers aged 16-19 are three times more likely to be involved in fatal crashes than drivers aged 20 and above. Furthermore, an increase in the minimum legal age for driving would allow for more comprehensive driver education. This would ensure that by the time individuals are legally permitted to drive, they are well-versed in traffic rules and regulations, thereby reducing the likelihood of accidents.

Body 2 · View 2

Explain why it's not the *best* solution. Point: Accidents caused by other age groups (e.g., older drivers, mention study showing higher accident rate for older drivers). Point: Other effective solutions exist (e.g., stricter traffic law enforcement for drunk driving, speeding, signals).

However, the assertion that this is the sole or the most effective solution is flawed. Firstly, it overlooks the fact that accidents are not exclusive to young drivers. Older drivers, for example, may have diminished reflexes and deteriorating eyesight, which can also lead to accidents. A study by the American Medical Association found that drivers over 65 have a higher accident rate per mile driven than all but the youngest drivers. Secondly, it fails to consider other viable solutions such as stricter enforcement of traffic rules and regulations. Regular checks for drink-driving, over-speeding, and adherence to traffic signals can significantly reduce the number of accidents, irrespective of the driver's age.

Conclusion

Summarize potential benefits (reducing young driver accidents, education) and limitations (other accident causes, other solutions). Restate opinion: helpful but not the best/only way.

In conclusion, while raising the minimum legal age for driving could potentially decrease the number of accidents by reducing reckless behavior among young drivers and ensuring comprehensive driver education, it is not the ultimate solution. The fact that accidents are not confined to young drivers and the potential of stricter enforcement of traffic rules and regulations as an effective solution cannot be overlooked.

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Next question: every country in the world has its own road rules, but many drivers don't obey them. What do you think are the reasons for this? What can be done to solve this problem?