Drive Safe

It was the beginning of my sophomore year, and I was so excited to begin my driver’s education course. I studied all the rules, read the book from front to back, and practiced driving with my instructor and parents. I was even able to pass my permit test the first try! Without all this practice and time dedicated to driver education, I wouldn’t be as confident and a cautious driver as I am now. Driver’s education is so important in reducing the number of deaths due to driving because it helps new drivers become familiar with the rules of the roads. Never having drove a car, with so many signs, and cars and people on the streets it can be overwhelming. However, being knowledgeable helps young adults to be safe and confident on the road. There’s so much to learn from the signs to parking and driving on the highway. Having a highly skilled drivers education instructor builds confidence and comfortability needed for the road. Better drivers with safe techniques, who are aware of the rules reduce the number of deaths caused by driving. According to Nebraska Today, “…teens who do not enroll in a driving school are 75% more likely to violate rules and get a ticket, 24% more likely to be involved in fatal accidents or death, and 16% more likely to get into accidents.”

There are many steps that can be taken to reduce the number of deaths related to driving. The first and most important step is to always wear a seat belt. This is so important and has saved so many lives. The world is also so consumed with technology, so this can be a distraction as well and lead to an accident. So, by practicing putting your phone on do not disturb while driving or just simply waiting until you have stopped to respond will make the roads safer for everyone. I’m also careful with speeding and keeping my distance from cars in front of me. This allows time to react to ant road obstructions and other drivers. I live in Minnesota, where the snow and ice can be very dangerous, so this is very important as well. Lastly, paying attention to not only my driving, but also others on the road. I can’t drive for them, but I can be cautious and allow enough time to react myself.

I haven’t experienced being in a car accident, however I do have an auntie who was in a car accident and hit by a drunk driver. I hear the stories of about how one person making a bad decision behind the wheel of the car affects so many lives. My aunt suffered the most, with a traumatic brain injury, but she was able to come out with her life. The paramedics told my grandmother the seat belt saved my aunt’s life that night. I have also witnessed my friends driving irresponsibly. In fact, one friend let someone who was unlicensed drive his car and the car ended up in a ditch. They both learned a lesson that day. This could have put not only them, but others on the road at a huge risk. Driving a car requires responsibility, whether it’s not driving under the influence or making safe decisions.

There are many steps to take to be a better driver and help others become safer on the road as well. The equipment in the car such as – tires, blinkers, headlights – is just as important as the person driving it. So, making sure everything is function correctly is crucial. Before putting the car in drive, I make sure the mirrors and seats are adjusted and seat belts are fastened. It is also important to be mindful of others around you, I was always told I’m not just driving for myself, but others too. Staying a good distance between cars, remembering the 3 second rule will help everyone stay safe on the road.

In conclusion, drivers’ education can help save lives by decreasing the number of deaths in accident by educating new drivers. Not only will the class educate new drivers, but it also provides a sense of confidence and comfort behind the wheel. Everyone should be required to take the course, not only young adults and this will make the roads safer. Also, remembering to take the steps to be safe and prevent accidents. Most accidents are caused by things that could have been prevented such as distractions from phones. Together, incorporating small changes, we can make a difference and lessen the number of deaths through education.