The Importance of Practicing Safe Driving Habits

Matthew
Shiber

5/5/2020

Scholarship
Essay

Educating
the future drivers of America is a task not to be taken lightly.
Every year, numerous Americans are subject to injury, pain, and even
die as a result of reckless driving. By learning how to properly
operate a car, drive a required number of hours behind a wheel with
an instructor and parent, and have lessons in the classroom, aspiring
drivers are taught the means necessary to help prevent the loss of
life on the roadways. These requirements are needed not only to teach
young drivers the importance of driver safety but remind every driver
that safety while driving is a must. Various steps can be taken in
order to reduce the number of deaths related to driving. The first
step is to buckle up and require everyone who drives with you to do
so as well. The second step is to turn your phone off and remove it
from your sight. The third step is to limit the amount of noise and
other distractions in the car. Make sure the radio or music is not
too loud, friends are not making any loud noises or bickering in the
background, and that everyone is sitting, not standing or moving
around. Lastly, drive defensively and observe all speed limits. While
never being in a car accident, I have witnessed others driving
irresponsibly. Some of my friends neglect the use of turn signals,
seatbelts, and other safety measures. There are a variety of steps
you can take to be a better driver. It is important to always be
observing yourself. Take mental note of what you do well and what you
are not doing. For example, if you realize you are not using your
turn signals as much as you should, use them more often. However, on
the positive side, if you see you are observing all posted speed
limits, have maintained a positive driving record, don’t text and
drive, and don’t eat and drive, acknowledge that as well and strive
to keep your status like so. Most importantly, be the role model of a
safe driver. Don’t wait for someone else to tell you or remind you
what you should and shouldn’t be doing on the road. Take the
necessary precautions and be the leader for yourself, friends, and
family.