Teen Drivers Running on Empty

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Story Published: Jun 16, 2008 at 5:21 PM MST

Story Updated: Nov 20, 2008 at 9:45 PM MST

By Anthony Congi

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It really wasn't that long ago, but when I first started driving, i can remember paying a $1.95 for a gallon of gas. Five bucks could get me around town for a week. Today gas prices hover around four dollars, keeping many teens off the roads.
Even for those of us with a full time job the gas and diesel prices are almost too much to bare. But for many teens in Idaho Falls, the gas prices are keeping them off the road altogether. Those with either part time or minimum wage summer jobs are feeling the pain at the pump even more.
Mitch Gibson "You gotta work a ton just to keep up. I've been struggling with paying out rent and gas and stuff. I can't really go hang out unless my friends come pick me up or I'm kicking rocks to their houses."
And Mitch wasn't the only teen driver who said it's affecting their social life.
Jessica Swaner: "I usually go up to Rexburg at least twice a week and I'm not doing that anymore." "And why is that?" "Because I can't afford it anymore."
Others who don't live in town are doing more in less time to save.
Jacey Martinez: "Do whatever I can to save money and gas. And now I gotta start going to school and so, can't really do much with driving. Just work and home. I gotta do a much as I can when I get off work. I gotta do as much as I can while I'm in town."
Teenagers and driving used to go hand in hand. Joy rides used to be a good way to kill time and boredom. But don't expect much of that anymore. All the teens I spoke with today are finding other ways to get around.
Martinez: "And now I gotta look forward to getting a little moped."
Swaner: "I ride my long board a little bit more."
Gibson: "I actually bought a long board too and just try not to drive as much as I can."

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