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Significant drop off in licensed drivers was ongoing before covid. From 88ish percent of 16+ year olds in 1990s to 70ish percent by 2015.

Theories all mention urban population growth putting people closer to stuff and friends who are available to run errands since it’s not a one hour one way trip from ruralandia. Taxi/ride share, delivery services, increased investment in walkable neighborhoods… it’s all really happening?

Old numbers I read a while ago. I imagine wfh has made more people realize the same only occasional need for a car.

Similarly drop off in youth participation in contact sports like football was gaining steam before covid. A contraction in college and pro participation is probable in 10+ years.

Especially as AI generated content gets to be able to simulate unique sports with photorealistic visuals; most viewers are at home already.

Propping up the status quo culture of the last 50 years is not really an obligation of future generations.



Much that can be tied to increased insurance for under 18s and additional licensing requirements. In the 90s a kid could get a permit at 15 in CA and a license at 16 without anything exceptionally special.

IIRC now they end up with some sort of restricted license that can't do much beyond go to school and insurance is through the roof.




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