To Ride or Die

To Ride or Die: Drivers ed Initiative Scholarship Essay

To even pose the question asking about the importance of drivers ed implies that there are people that take driving for granted and do not realize the benefit in knowing not only one’s way around their car, but also the ways of the road. The U.S. has fifty different states and each state has different rules and regulations in regards to being a driver. Simply being knowledgeable about the rules of the road in your own area is important, not only to protect yourself, but to protect your own loved ones, a neighbor, or even the person that babysits your kids.

I believe that being able to go and utilize drivers ed is the first step of many in the process of reducing the number of driving deaths. Having something be readily available does not mean people have the courage to or are willing to use it. From personal experience in having an anxiety disorder, there have been times where I would not be able to get food for myself when I would be with my friends because of my fear of having to burden them in some way. To be able to face yourself and have the courage to admit that you might need help in driving and learning more about driving in general is what matters and as long as people are able to do that, then I believe that reducing the number of deaths while driving should be able to come with ease.

In my life, I have had one experience with an accident that not only affected me, but also affected all of my friends and family. My best friend since I was young had died as a result of him driving home drunk. At the time, I did not even have my license to drive, but I was heartbroken and terrified all the same. It was because of this incident that I had put off driving for almost 6 years. He was 23 when he passed away and to this day, I still visit his grave site to pay my respects. It was not until I was encouraged by my parents, my brother and sister, and my other best friends that as long as I learned from my best friend’s accident and educated myself about cars and the road that I got the courage to obtain my license.

Ultimately, the first step is always the most important. For anyone to become a better and safer driver, following the rules of the road and knowing when you should and should not drive is the key. In order to protect those you love and those around you, the only step is being educated before you go driving.