In 2009, approximately 10.4 million young people between the ages of 12 and 20 drank more than “a few sips” of alcohol (Minenni). The drinking age should be lowered to 18 because at this age teenagers are considered adults, fewer people are in prison for harboring underage drinking, and teenagers can be taught to drink responsibly. Although there is a downside to lowering the drinking age because it can cause more car accidents, higher chances of alcohol problems and health risks it can cause. There are also warning signs to look for in a teen drinking under 21. 18 year olds are considered adults – 18 year olds are “adults” they can vote, get married, serve their country, do jury duty, and move out on their own. They really no longer need their parents to tell them what is right and what is wrong in today's society. Under the age of 21, drinking is seen as a "forbidden fruit", a "badge of rebellion against authority" and a symbol of adulthood. Today history repeats itself and the same mistakes are made as in the past. Prohibition didn't work then and prohibition for youth under 21 doesn't work now. (Dr. Ruth) Car accidents are more likely among teenagers. There are already enough accidents due to drunk driving, that's why it's a big problem when someone does it and many announce not to do it, because it is serious and can be fatal, it also endangers other people who are not involved with alcohol. In 2006, 2,121 people between the ages of 16 and 20 died in alcohol-related fatal crashes on U.S. roads, according to data compiled for me by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration; in 1984 the figure was 4.2612. (Cloud) Although there is a decrease in drinking and drinking...... middle of paper ......Center. The risks of underage drinking before age 21 are serious and are not taken into consideration by adolescents who drink. Works CitedCloud, John. “The drinking age should be lowered.” nd: n. page TIME.com. Time, 06 June 2008. Web. 24 November 2013.Dr. Ruth Engs." Why the Drinking Age Should Be Lowered (1998): n. pag. Why the Drinking Age Should Be Lowered: Dr. Ruth Engs. Web. November 24, 2013. Hall, Kelly. "The Underage drinking is even riskier than you might imagine." Richmond Family Magazine. Np, March 2011. Web. November 24, 2013. Ogilvie, Jessica Pauline. "Is Lowering the Drinking Age a Good Idea? " Los Angeles Times. Los Angeles Times, May 30, 2011. Web. November 24, 2013. "Regional Prevention Center." NP, August 26, 2006. Web. November 24, 2013. "Underage Drinking." November. 2013.