Safe Teen Driving

Now that I have finished my drivers ed classes, I cannot wait to take my behind-the-wheel driving exam. Passing the exam means that I can finally get my license and start driving on my own, but before I start doing so, I need to reflect on the importance of drivers ed and how I can be a safe driver.

There are thousands of deaths as a result of irresponsible driving every year, which can be reduced through proper drivers ed. Drivers ed ensures that a new driver gets plenty of experience practicing their driving skills with someone that is an experienced driver. Taking the advice of a driving instructor or other experienced driver makes a new driver less likely to take irresponsible actions on the road, and thus less likely to injure themselves or others.

To reduce the number of deaths related to driving, drivers ed courses should be required for every new driver, in addition to increasing the fines for those that have been driving irresponsibly. Drivers ed classes should be required for every new driver because it ensures that the driver gets the practice they need to avoid irresponsible actions. It also ensures that every driver understands the rules of the road, and how their actions can impact the lives of others. Increasing fines for irresponsible driving, such as for driving under the influence or disobeying road laws, is likely to pressure people not to drive irresponsibly. If a driver knows that their irresponsible actions will result in a heavy fine, then they are less likely to take those actions.

Thankfully, I have never been in a car accident nor witnessed my family or friends involved in a car accident. However, I have seen some of my family members driving irresponsibly. My grandpa likes to chat a lot when he is driving, which results in a reduced focus on the road. I recall multiple times in which he braked suddenly or made a right turn on a red light when he was not supposed to. I sometimes find myself checking the speedometer when he is driving on the freeway, and am not surprised when I see that he is going ten or fifteen miles over the speed limit. Luckily, these incidents have not resulted in an accident, but they have the potential to.

As a teenage driver, I can spend more time practicing my driving with a parent or other adult family member that is an experienced driver. This will help me realize the mistakes that I am making while driving, and allow me to become a better, safer driver. I can also look back to what I learned in my drivers ed courses to make sure that I am staying safe on the road. I can help others by suggesting ways to drive less irresponsibly and have other drivers see how their actions can impact the safety of others.