Patience is Key

Drivers Ed: Dos and Don’ts

Diver education is important in reducing the number of deaths as a result of improper driving. It is improper because it creates a nationwide standard as to what are the expectations and obligations of a driver. It creates a peace of mind to the driver to know that the person behind the wheel of all the cars surrounding them have completed an accredited drivers ed course.

There is a main step that comes to mind when considering actions that will reduce the number of deaths related to driving. I believe that free but mandatory drivers ed courses should be required to all eligible drivers under the age of 21. Comprehensive exams that prove the effectiveness of the course will also be required. For all persons over the age of 21, required exams will be mandated and if classes are requested, they should be given at no expense.

I have been in a car accident myself. I had overpassed a man who was suspiciously stopped on the highway. I took all actions to make a proper overtaking and out of nowhere he turned into me and totaled my car by scraping the front passenger side off completely. I assumed he was at a stop in the road because he had a trailer hitched to his truck that lacked functioning signal lights; they were dark and disconnected. Worse than that, he didn’t even bother to use a signal light on his truck. While his break lights were visible at the tail of the truck once I passed the trailer, a signal light was not found.

While I do blame the other driver for the ultimate cause of my accident, it was my impatience that began the series of events that led up to the wreck. I did my best to correct and handle the situation, but the other driver was too slow and failed to act accordingly. I followed the protocol and instructions that I learned in my drivers ed course. I learned how to be a defensive driver and how to correct improper actions made by other drivers.

When it comes to bettering myself and helping others to better their driving, I tell them to be patient. It is the lesson that I learned from my accident. If I was patient, my accident would have not happened. My desire to get home quickly was not urgent and was certainly not necessary. I was impatient and that is what initiated the series of events that led up to a wreck. I am glad that nobody was hurt by my impulsive actions. I always remind myself and others that arriving a few minutes earlier to your destination is not worth the sacrifice of time, money, or life. When possible leave earlier. Learn to breathe and be patient and know that you will arrive at your destination when it is time. Patience is key and it will take you much farther than a car alone.