Driving has been an essential part of American culture since cars were invented. But young Americans may be falling out of love with cars. "Polls, studies and surveys show younger generations are less likely to drive, less likely to have a driver's license, have less access to vehicles, and when they do get behind the wheel, are driving fewer miles," said Business Insider. The percentage of U.S. teen drivers has consistently dropped since the 1990s. In our car-dependent country, with just a handful of cities boasting reliable public transportation, this driving rejection may come as a surprise. But should it?
Driving is dangerous. Fatal crashes are increasing and have become the leading cause of death in the United States for people ages 1 to 54. The risk is particularly pronounced for anyone who is not an average-sized male. Cars are also very expensive when you add up the necessary costs to buy, maintain and fuel them. Auto insurance rates have gone up and gas prices are often high. "For a generation already burdened with debt, the bus or ride-sharing might seem like a better option," said Kafui Attoh, a professor at the City University of New York School of Labor and Urban Studies to The Nation.Â
Gen Z is more environmentally conscious than generations past, and many don't want to exacerbate the climate crisis by driving. "Highway vehicles release about 1.5 billion tons of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere each year," said the U.S. Department of Energy. "Cars and trucks contribute to nearly 20 percent of all greenhouse gas emissions in the United States," added The Nation. "For many young people, the desire for a healthy planet and future can outweigh the appeal of an automobile." | 
