Our Youth is the Future

Chrystal
Valentin

Simmons
University

2020
Drivers ed Essay Contest

Seating
in the driver’s seat, turning on the vehicle, revving the engine.
It all seems like such a thrill. Getting your driver’s license is a
rite of passage for many people. Yet, there are so many
responsibilities associated with driving: your own life, passengers,
surrounding vehicles, and bystanders. Drivers ed gives
drivers the knowledge to make educated decisions regarding driving
which ultimately will save lives by reducing the number of incidents
of car collisions, car- bystander collisions, driving under the
influence, or speeding accidents.   

In
order to reduce the number of driving- related deaths, we can start
by encouraging youth about the importance of drivers ed and
how serious the task of driving should be taken. For example, local
drivers ed schools can host high school assemblies to
educate youth that are of age to get permits and licenses about how
to apply for a permit and licensing exams. Additionally, this
presentation can show eager learners the seriousness of properly
handling a vehicle. 

Part
of that presentation can include personal events in which vehicle
collisions occurred and how that incident has affected that person.
Personally, I have been in a few minor incidents as a passenger in
the car, but I have been in one major accident as a child. As a
mother of triplets and one older child, my mother was working two-
three jobs and going to the gym to be healthier and in shape. On top
of working, exercising, and being a single mother, she was running on
no sleep for three days. On the third day, she fell asleep while
driving. Our car collided with the back of another. The front of our
car was totaled, but thankfully the biggest injury from any of my
family members and the people of the other vehicle was a concussion.
This entire incident could’ve been a lot worse, but ultimately it
could’ve been avoided if my mother had prioritized her health. This
is a very important aspect of drivers ed. 

Safety
on the road is the most important takeaway from drivers ed.
Safety includes understanding your vehicle and its capabilities,
understanding your limits, and your health and potential health
restrictions. It is important to know your vehicle and how it works
in case any emergency occurs. Be sure that you understand your
limits, meaning driving in areas you are comfortable with. For
example, I am not yet comfortable with the highway, so it’s not a
smart decision to go on the highway with passengers yet. Lastly,
become aware of your health restrictions. If you wear glasses every
day, like me, then it’s important to never get behind the wheel
without your glasses. And like my mom, if you are not feeling well or
are exhausted, it’s important to make the executive decision to not
drive. These factors all impact the safety of drivers everywhere. 

Driving
can be very fun and freeing, but also scary and dangerous. Seeking
drivers ed can save lives (including your own)!