All teens want freedom and their first car gives them the independence they need. Of course in order for teens to get a car they either need to pay for it themselves or have their parents pay for it. Either way, a car comes with big responsibilities.

It is possible for a teen to pay for their car if they really want one. Senior Erin Moloney said, “I worked full time all summer so I could pay for my own car. I’m definitely safer knowing I paid for it myself.”

On the other hand, senior Conor Cassara’s parents paid for his bright green jeep. He said, “I didn’t choose the color. I always wanted a jeep but my dad decided on the color. It’s a 2012 Jeep Wrangler Sahara Unlimited.”

New drivers need to make sure they can afford all expenses that come with a car, such as gas. Gas adds at least $225 per month. Luckily the students I spoke to pay for their own gas without a problem. Senior Carly Bossung said, “I pay for gas with money I make at work.”

Carly  drives a 1999 Ford Taurus and said the biggest responsibility is “paying for repairs and gas, and driving safely.” Erin Moloney similarly said, “The biggest responsibility would be keeping my car clean.”

Driving friends around comes with having a car. Senior Beecher Halsey, who drives a black Porsche, said, “I drive my friends all the time, especially since I had my license so early but when it’s a big group (really more than one) I need to use the family Suburban.”

For all the new drivers, enjoy your independence but just remember to always be safe!