16 yesterday , learners permit today !

[fuzze]

morning all , awesome to read about all your experience's with new drivers . I believe my boy will make a good driver in the way that I learned from my Dad who drove Semi-trailers all of his working life and he drove to age 62 and retired with a spotless driving record . Myself I turn 45 next couple of months and have never received fines or had any accidents on my driving record and I drive everything from our family vehicles to Dump trucks with snowplows , heavy equipment , loaders ,ect . My dad taught me from probably age ten on how to drive defensively and what to look for in traffic and what the privilege of having a license meant , and I am forever thankful for the lessons. I believe I have instilled the same values in our son and we hope for the best for him .

As far a driving the Z , that is just on special occasion's such as Grad or something along those lines . His Ranger will be his go -to and as far as safety goes a full size truck would afford more protection but the price of fuel would kill his bank account , 1.34 $ per liter this morning in Van .

Thanzx again for all the feedback !

Chris

[Unkle]

I really like the graduated system here in B.C. Unfortunately some parents ''give'' their kids brand new exotic cars as their first ride ! How 'bout an SL600 Mercedes , or a little 18 year old sh!t in our neighborhood with a 500 horse Mustang , waking everybody up at 2 am . Please don't fall into the parent trap '' Dad , can I have a race ready whatever , and make payments ''.

Those red ''L'' and green ''N'' tags are there for a reason , and I swear there's got to be 15 Mustangs around here that have the green ''N'' tags , all over 300 horse , and no way should those kids be driving them . :stupid:

[Mike]

Wow, I seem to remember getting my license like it was only a few years ago. Not many of my friends died from being young and stupid... but, some of them did end up in the ditch a few times !

Anyway, it must be a great feeling to raise a child to the point of their own independence. In a way, I'm sure it's also disappointing as well because they are no longer that little child you were able to hold in one hand.

I remember everything my dad taught me about driving to this day. Chris, use this time to bond with your son and have a great time!!

Mike

[geezer]

Well Chris, I think kids today are for the most part, more responsible and aware of the consequences of their actions than some of us were. The harsh realities of driving today make it so. The escalating cost of insurance in the event of an accident is a real threat hanging over a young driver today. All you can do is relay your knowledge and concerns to him and hope for the best. Wish him a Happy Birthday from us at the Classic Z Car Club.

[Sailor Bob]

The price of gas is a lead foot deterent for most. He'll figure it out the first time he puts gas in it.

[Oiluj]

Too many older drivers are Way to confident in their ability

FWIW, I find it's usually younger drivers whose confidence exceeds their skills. This is supported by insurance rates. Insurers set rates based on statistics. Younger drivers have more accidents, which is why thier insurance rates are higher.

I can tell you that when I was young, I often drove at, (and occasionally beyond), the limit of my skills. I was just "lucky" and never crashed a car.

For *most* of us, as we age we become somewhat safer drivers. This is because over the years, people develop a better understanding of "actions vs. consequences". If driving behaviors end up costing too much money, smart people change their behavior...

My 2 cents...

[sblake01]

Too many older drivers are Way to confident in their ability

Sorry Bill but I'd have to agree that your statement is about as useful (or useless) as the one you responded to.

[AndysPlit]

My Z was my third car. I was 20. I learned some harsh lesson from my first two vehicles. Thankfully the Z benefited from my previous experiences before owning her.

Although, when I was 17 my friend's dad was selling a white 73 240Z, triple carbs, 5 speed, and whale tail for $1500. As much as I wanted that car I am glad I never owned it as my first. It would've been disasterous. Still wonder where that 240 ended up.

83 Nissan Sentra Station Wagon

82 Honda Prelude

RIP.

[Darbji280z]

Getting to drive legally wasn't that long ago for me but I can remember it so well. It was the best day of my life!!! I waited for it ever since I could talk! And now my little brother just got his and I get to relive it all over again.

Congrats and best of luck to you and you son!!!