DMV: The Place to Be

Drivers Ed has always been the most vital part about driving. It is important drivers learn the basics before actually getting behind the wheel. Cars are, after all, very dangerous when not driven responsibly. Drivers ed will provide a person with the basic skills needed to ensure the safety of the driver and everyone around them. New drivers tend to have the highest crash rates, especially those who do not attend drivers ed or do not pay attention during it. Drivers Ed focuses on specific key points in driving that a novice driver needs to know before they can get experience. Experience driving can only come when the driver can safely practice. Like many things, it is best to learn to drive from a professional who has the right tools to safely and successfully teach people. For example, a driving instructor should have a second brake on the passenger side of the car. They will also have specific skills mapped out with specific instructions. It is important to remember the basics learned at Drivers Ed to keep both drivers and pedestrians safe. A driver should be able to read the traffic lights as well as know when he has the right-of-way. A good driver will be able to perform different maneuvers like U-turns, K-turns, parking, parallel parking, and hill-side parking. They should know not to distract yourself or multitask while driving. Many smart drivers will also be mindful of the weather, their speed, and their surroundings in general. When I was nine years old, I was in a very bad car accident with my mother and little brother; one I will never forget. Our first mistake had been driving despite the rainy, foggy weather. We had watched the weather channel but overlooked the forecast as we were supposed to check out of our hotel at a certain time. We had also been on the phone with my father when we had crashed into the metal railing on the side of the road. We should not have been distracted on the phone while driving through the fog. My mother had received an airbag burn on her arm but my brother had not been injured. I, on the other hand, had been wearing the chest strap of my seatbelt behind me simply because it bothered me. This is why I broke my nose and my jaw, lost four adult teeth, received seat belt burns on my waist, and received a severe concussion. I suffered for years for this one mistake. After several surgeries over a span of ten years, there was no physical evidence of the accident. My mental health still struggled even then, though, as I developed PTSD. This is why I vowed to wear my seatbelt, never go on my phone while driving, and check the weather before I go driving. I have learned from my family and I’s mistakes. It is my hope for others to not have to go through what I have been through to drive responsibly.