Is 16 too young to drive?

http://www.rmiia.org/auto/teens/Teen_Driving_Statistics.asp
http://dor.mo.gov/drivers/teens/gradlaw.php
http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/286684/parenting_tips_easing_your_teen_into_pg5.html?cat=25

My daughter just turned 16 on Aug 16th.  On her birthday she passed her driver's test and received her license!  I had many well-intending friends and relatives who expressed concern that 16 is way too young to drive.  I agree that 16 is young and many 16 year olds are not mature enough to handle the responsibility.  However, I do not agree that all 16 year olds are too young to drive.  I believe that should be judged on an individual basis. 
There are many dangers in which teenage drivers are more susceptible too.  Cell phone use is highest among 16-24 year olds and  most teens use the cell to text rather than talk.  We all know how dangerous that can be.  Most of us have been nearly ran off the road at some point or another by someone trying to text and drive.  Teen drivers can also be easily distracted by other teens in the car, ipods, eating and many other things.  Adding inexperience to these distractions can be fatal. 
Many states have enacted graduated driver's licenses to protect our youth.  Missouri is one of those states.  The first step is a permit.  A young driver must hold a permit for at least 6 months before they can get a license.  That license is an under 18 license.  This license is restricted with a curfew and limits on how many children may ride in the car.  The driver also must maintain no alcohol or drug offense.  Before the driver gets a full license they must get an under 21 license which also carries restrictions.  These graduated driver's license programs have greatly reduced teenage motor vehicle deaths. 
This is not to say parents should rush out and get there child a permit as soon as they turn 15.  Parents need to use discretion when deciding if their child is ready to drive.  Consider the child's grades, ability to complete chores, and willingness to accept instruction.  If your child argues with you anytime you try to tell them anything they probably will not listen to driving instructions either.  If your child is known to associate with teens who drink, smoke or use drugs then they are probably not ready to drive.  Those would be the kids in the car with them while they're driving. 
As for me, I'm glad my  daughter is driving!  She drives back and forth to school and church, and she can run to get milk.  I do not allow her to go anywhere she wants whenever she wants.  I believe limits should be strict when they start out until they become more experienced.  Teens are still children who need boundaries but the benefits of driving can be great for the child and parent if the child is ready.