Steering Novice Drivers in Safe Directions: Driver Education

Steering Novice Drivers in Safe Directions: Driver Education

Driver education programs are critical to the success of novice drivers and the safety of all on the road. Learning from trained professionals provides thorough practice and addresses the common mistakes that often lead to accidents. My driver education course is essential to my driving and keeps me constantly vigilant on the road.

In my state, driver education is detailed and exhaustive on the many things student drivers need to know. Driving home (accompanied by a parent) after class everyday was great practice, as it allowed me to slowly integrate everything I was learning into consistent driving habits. To this day, I check that the wheels of the car in front of me are visible when I stop, and I use the “look, plan, execute” strategy during lane changes. Once ‘behind-the-wheel’ lessons started, I had a good understanding of the basics, and with a trained teacher in the car I was able to refine and polish my skills.

I have been in two car accidents in my life, and while neither resulted in serious injury, both taught me valuable lessons. During one, my dad was driving our gargantuan diesel truck and looked away from the highway for a few moments. Ahead, another car had stopped, waiting to turn, and my dad yanked the wheel just in time to sacrifice the driver’s door instead of us. Now that I drive that truck, I am incredibly watchful of the road, highway or not. The other accident happened when my mom was driving. We were talking enthusiastically about a new song that had just come out, and before we knew it, a car had pulled onto the highway right in front of us. The other vehicle was at fault, but our car was totaled. It was a trusty Sentra that had originally belonged to an older woman who had few uses for it. We got two thousand dollars for it: a car that should’ve lasted us five more years, and haven’t found a reliable replacement since. No matter where the blame is placed in an accident, consequence is often felt on both sides, and I now remain alert no matter how predictable other drivers may seem.

Being a good driver requires practice, and the pandemic has helped me appreciate that. Our driveway is extremely close to the highway, and now that I am not driving everyday, I take a few minutes to drive around my neighborhood before setting off in order to warm up. The pandemic has also prolonged my wait for a license, and I still need some reminders before getting on the road. Before starting the vehicle, I go over the steps to parallel park, and which ways to turn my wheels when parking on hills. By the time I have my license, these things will be muscle memory, but for now, I want to make sure I’m totally prepared before setting out.

Driver education was important in my journey as a novice driver, and I encourage everyone to take it, even if not required to. It has helped me make the best and safest choices on the road.