(March 23, 2007) — The hustle and bustle of New York City, no room for pedestrians and hardly any room for cars; a perfect contrast to the open, palm-tree lined highways of Los Angeles. Unlike the Big Apple, public transportation and walking are not always the most convenient method of getting from point A to B. And in this sense it is easy to see why being able to drive in Los Angeles County could be one of the single most important skills available in a teens’ repertoire. Yet many adults would dismiss driving for their teens—citing the risk of accidents and even death. According to the Auto Club, traffic crashes ran as the number one killer of American teenagers in 2006. Obvious risks aside however, many students would swear to driving—citing it as perhaps one of the most important abilities in life. “Being able to drive helps me manage my own time and schedule without having to adjust it to my parents’ agendas, and build character,” senior Shant Torosean says. Torosean finds it easier to have a job now that he does not have to worry about arranging rides. And many should be aware that driving instills a great amount of responsibility and ultimately builds character. While driving students will be constantly tested to respect complete strangers, their cars, their lives, and safety. Teacher, Chris Axelgard said, “Driving teaches students to appreciate responsibility.” By stepping up and owning to the obligations of driving, the student is endowed with integrity and is pushed into maturity. And sooner is better, as driving at a young age will help students become safer drivers. According to Chris Murray, a driving instructor at A-Plus Driving School, the earlier students get their permits, the more practice they can get before the real-life driving. “Through classes and practices, students learn defense driving by growing awareness of their surroundings,” Murray said. Some believe there is more to driving than just mastering the basics. “Driving does not depend on a test, but on the person’s character,” Torosean said. “It is not only based on skills, but how you treat other drivers.”