You are Responsible

You are Responsible

Driving is a huge responsibility. You are in charge of your life and others when in the driver’s seat. Most people take it for granted, that’s when crashes happen. You get too comfortable and decide to answer a phone call, reach for your bag in the back, look away for just one second, and everything changes. Driving shouldn’t be taken lightly. It’s scary, yet it makes you feel independent. It’s a big step towards adulthood, and that’s why it is such a big responsibility.

Steps to prevent deaths by drivers include taking drivers ed, a refresher course, getting good sleep the night before, eliminating distractions, being predictable, and paying attention to your surroundings. Knowing where your blind spots are, if there is a car there, pedestrians on the sidewalk, animals waiting to cross, and also knowing what time of day you are driving. The number of deaths from car accidents is constantly going up, it shouldn’t be. Don’t let more experience fool you into thinking that he or she is safer to drive with. In some aspects that is true, but it could also mean he or she is too comfortable. Knowing who is driving and what kind of vehicle you are getting into can help save your life.

As a highschooler I have seen reckless driving. Luckly, I have not been involved in any type of accidents, nor have my immediate family members. My cousin was involved in an accident, he was under the influence. He was okay, but it just reminded me how quickly life can change. Both my mom and dad grab their phones when driving and I immediately tell them to put it down, you can answer that later. It’s tempting to try and do other things while driving. Being on the road can be boring, that makes it even more important to pay attention and be a good driver for not only your sake, but those around you.

I can be a safer driver by being awake while driving. Getting a good night’s rest is underrated when it comes to energy levels. Driving can put you into a sleepy state, listening to music, driving alone and driving long distances can be dangerous. Sleep can help keep you awake and attentive. Playing certain genres of music can keep you awake, but most people play it loud to “look cool” and end up getting distracted. This is a common mistake. Another way to be safe is being predictable. People tend to think they are the only ones on the road and that other people should make way for them. This is obviously not the case, but you can’t tell them that while in different cars. So turning on your blinker early, braking early, being courteous and following the road rules can ward off unnecessary consequences. Doing all this also keeps the drivers on the other side of the road safe while driving. Background knowledge and surroundings are important too. For example, knowing where your blind spots are, if there is a car there, pedestrians on the sidewalk, animals waiting to cross. Being aware what time of day you are driving plays a crucial role in determining if you should go out or not. Never forget you are responsible, for the people in your car and on the other side of the road.