Yellow Light

Yellow Light

The left signal changed to a green circle. I maneuvered a few feet forward into the intersection. My dad, avidly waiting for me to turn, had his hand on the grab handle.

Being 16, it felt terrible to see my friend’s posts, as I knew that not having a license kept me tethered to home. I realize now, that although it is vital for a teenager to know how to drive, it’s best to learn, observe, and drive only when necessary. The wishful lifestyle we want only paint half the picture. We are blind to the dangerous outcomes, and cruise through driver education solely to get a license. All of us, teenagers, instructors, and parents, have to now come together to paint a more realistic picture for everyone. The number one step that needs to happen to reduce the risks of rash driving is to understand that there is a learning curve with becoming a part of the road. Using that learning curve to our advantage while also minimizing overconfidence and the “need” to be able to take oneself anywhere at the age of 16, will definitely put drivers on a safer path to responsible driving.

I was waiting to turn, as a car moved on the other side of the intersection. It partially blocked my view of the oncoming traffic. Just as my dad opened his mouth to say something, I turned left.

Driver education is seen as a drag by many. For weeks, I sat in a dark classroom to learn trivial facts. It transitioned to watching videos on how to drive and how dangerous driving could be if a driver misused their freedom. Everyone put their head down, either to avoid gruesome sights or out of boredom. This contagiously lethargic nature reduced the significance of these classes. We were only there because it was required. Make the first step to becoming an independent, accountable citizen interesting. A boring curriculum filled with ancient videos will undoubtedly result in inattentive students. Make this experience enjoyable, and the injuries from driving will reduce.

My dad yelled, “AY LOOK!” I stepped on the accelerator to avoid an accident with an oncoming car. The driver had the right of way, and I couldn’t see them until it was almost too late. That day, I know if I hadn’t sped up, things would’ve been different. Worst-case scenario, my mother would’ve lost her whole family to one panicked decision. I also would’ve terribly harmed the life of whoever was in the other car. On the drive home, with my dad yelling at me, I felt enlightened. A weird feeling, but at that moment I understood an accident wasn’t just an accident, it was a mother’s pain, a father’s disappointment, a sibling’s fear, and most of all, it could drag a happy family to the road.

It’s crucial to understand some of us aren’t ready yet. Don’t go out too soon and realize too late that you made the wrong choice – lives are at stake.