Behind The Wheel

Behind the Wheel

Young adults and teenagers who go through and complete a driver’s education program are more likely to be prepared for the danger ahead on the road. Teenagers develop rudimentary vehicle control and traffic maneuvers. The course teaches students how to safely operate a vehicle on busy interstates, at night, and during other dangerous driving circumstances. Being more aware of your surroundings and the actions of other cars around you, drivers are more likely to avoid an accident. Drivers learn a variety of important concepts such as, how to safely change lanes, turn, enter or exit roadways, and basic vehicle safety and maintenance to make the right decisions on the road. 

Taking care of yourself and your vehicle are both ways we can reduce the number of deaths related to driving. Checking your vehicle, adjusting your mirrors, buckling your seatbelt are precautions that should be taken. Take driving seriously, as if it were your driving test, or a police vehicle is near. With that being said I would also advise avoiding your phone, alcohol, drugs, and any other distractions. While driving, or before think about your well being and others out on the road. Always expect the unexpected, do not drive a car if you feel tired, and do not rush for the safety of yourself and others. When driving, pull over and rest if you become tired and never think that being on time is worth more than your life and the life of others. Taking precautions before and while you are driving will reduce the number of deaths that are related to driving.

Knowing and obeying traffic laws and regulations of the road is another way we can all reduce driving-related deaths. Speeding and rushing to your destination is never a smart decision when driving. Before breaking that speed limit, think, is it worth your life or the person’s life around you. Is it really worth that ticket from the highway patrol?  In addition, Always communicate your intentions. Many drivers don’t signal for turns or changing lanes. Don’t be one of them. Also, use your headlights and horn when necessary to let others know you are there or that they are coming too close to your car. Trust no one to know what you are thinking. Knowing the laws and regulations of the road and following them is crucial and can lower the number of deaths while driving.

Driving is a serious task that is part of most of our daily lives. Being a driver in a vehicle is not always easy or simple, in fact, it can be quite appalling at times. However, we can always take different precautions that start with you maintaining your vehicle, taking care of yourself, and obeying traffic laws and regulations. Do not take any of these steps for granted as they are here and taught to drivers for a specific reason. Taking these specific precautions can save a life or multiple lives every day and reduce the number of deaths related to driving.