A Steer in the Right Direction

A Steer in the Right Direction

By Monika Narain

I have experienced a wide range of road conditions, from the moderate tranquil of suburban Illinois to peak rush hour in downtown NYC; the sloping hills in San Francisco to the charming commotion near the Champs-Élysées; the twisting highways alongside North Carolina peanut farms to the outright anarchy in the streets of Bangalore. While I am fortunate to have never been in an accident, I have witnessed my fair share of fender benders, distracted drivers, and vehicle collisions, issues which have affected more friends and family members than I can count. And the depictions of reckless driving in practically every movie and TV show have only portrayed driving as this life-threatening feat of audaciousness on the unpredictable warzone we call “the road.”

Consequently, when my parents encouraged me to start learning to drive two years ago, I adamantly refused. I passed it off by saying “it can wait” or “it’s not important,” creating a literal “my way or the highway” situation. In reality, I was just terrified – terrified of hurting someone, of failing at such an essential skill, and, most of all, of growing up. But whether I liked it or not, senior year was going to start, and it was about time to step out of my comfort zone – or rather ride outside of it.

So, as the only senior in a class of sophomores, I embarked on my Drivers Ed journey (via Zoom of course). It was embarrassing at first, but as the class progressed, I realized that driving wasn’t as complicated as it seemed, and that almost all vehicle accidents could be completely prevented if drivers simply followed the Rules of the Road. I learned so many new things, like the meanings of different road signs, proper etiquette at intersections, and factors that can cause distracted driving. In fact, I had no idea that activities such as switching radio channels or even using a hands-free device can be just as harmful as driving with closed eyes. Unfortunately, this is something I observe very frequently when my family is driving, and I now make an active effort to try to minimize these distractions. Although I don’t have my license yet, in the car I try to pay as much attention to the road as if I were the driver, applying the skills I’ve learned in class, so that I can be the best I can once I’m officially upgraded from the passenger’s seat.

Looking back, I’m glad I chose the “highway.” As I prepare to get my learner’s permit, I feel equipped with the knowledge to be a responsible driver and am no longer afraid of sitting behind the wheel. In order to protect myself and others, I know now to adhere to the Rules of the Road, check my blindspot and mirrors relentlessly, and leave my phone off, because no text notification is more important than staying alive and safe on the road. And that, in my opinion, is a steer in the right direction.