In the Driver’s Seat

In the Driver’s Seat

The moment you become old enough to qualify for your learner’s permit, you should feel proud and ready to take this opportunity on. If not, you’re not ready for this next step in life. Driving is a privilege that not all people have and, while it can be so rewarding in so many ways, it can also be dangerous in just as many ways.

The importance behind why it’s beneficial to learn all driving basics and rules outweighs the feeling of dread, awkwardness, nervousness or even cockiness with some students. While one may think they know all they need to, there’s more to learn, I guarantee it. Whether it be laws, how to react properly to situations or other things, there’s always something to be taught to us to broaden our knowledge.

Not everyone knows what to do in an emergency situation. Weather conditions can change things instantly, resulting in accidents and possible death if not remaining cautious and alert. The reasons behind laws, like no texting while driving are laws for a reason. We must abide by them or else what’s the point?

In order to be the best we can be as drivers, we need to pay close attention to our surroundings. Keep in mind that even if you, yourself are a great driver, that doesn’t mean that someone else isn’t out there possibly driving impaired or distracted that could cross paths with you and involve you in an accident. By doing your part, you can act quickly and wisely by remaining alert and cautious if you don’t provide yourself with distractions. Whether it be eating, talking on the phone, doing makeup, messing with the radio – you are not paying full attention to the road and are now considered a danger to other drivers and pedestrians.

About 10 years ago, I was involved in an accident as a passenger. The roads were glare ice that snuck up on us. While that sounds reasonable, in all honesty, by sister could’ve prevented us from flipping the car by simply going a slower speed and being more alert. Instead, driving too fast for conditions with the music up, chatting with me and not taking into consideration the unknown of what lied ahead around the upcoming corner all played a part in this accident. An accident that could’ve resulted in death.

Now, I’ve learned from my sister’s mistake. Always drive at a cautious speed, especially when weather conditions aren’t the greatest. Focus on your surroundings and leave on time, if not early so you don’t feel the need to rush or speed. Although my kids are very young, my husband and I have already discussed what ways we are teaching our kids about driving habits and laws. No one in the world wants to hear that their family or friend was in an accident that could’ve been prevented. So let’s start encouraging each other to be more wise and responsible when it comes to driving.