Final answer:
Young drivers who are 16 or 17 years old typically face restrictions such as not being allowed to drive without an adult, at night, or with non-family member passengers. These restrictions are examples of how the government employs 'legal discrimination' to promote road safety and protect young individuals from the risks of inexperienced driving.
Step-by-step explanation:
If an applicant is 16 or 17 years of age when they receive their driver's license, there are several restrictions that may be placed on their driving privileges. Laws vary by state, but typically, these younger drivers may not be allowed to drive without an adult present, drive late at night, or transport passengers who are not immediate family members for a certain period after obtaining their license. This is aimed at reducing the risks associated with inexperienced drivers and increasing road safety.
It's important to understand that the government engages in what is termed 'legal discrimination' based on age and other factors to promote safety and welfare. For instance, various age-related laws, like those for smoking and alcohol consumption, are in place to protect the health of young individuals. Similarly, driving laws for newly licensed teenage drivers are in place to prevent accidents caused by inexperience and distraction.
These regulations are examples of the state exercising its powers to discriminate legally. This form of discrimination is considered permissible as it is intended to create policies in the interest of greater public safety, health, and education, even if it means treating different segments of the population differently.