The Power of Drivers ed

Driving can be one of the most freeing feelings in the world. However, it can also be one of the most dangerous things. Just by making one wrong turn, your life and the lives of others could change in an instant. It even turns out that a majority of accidents could have been avoided had the driver not been distracted, enraged, or intoxicated.

Since getting my driver’s license, I have always been as careful as possible because I know how life changing car accidents can be. My grandfather was in a terrible accident around the time I got my license, thus it made me a more cautious driver. He was standing next to his car in a parking lot when he was struck by a car, leaving one of his legs amputated. The driver, who only had her learner’s permit at the time, was very nervous and wanted to put her foot on the brake, but instead hit the gas pedal. My grandfather’s life completely changed as a result of an accident that could have never happened had the driver been more experienced.

From my grandfather’s accident, I realized how important drivers ed is to reduce the number of accidents that lead to impairment or death. Drivers ed is significantly more effective through hands-on practice than by reading a handbook. I believe all states should require more hours of behind the wheel driving than classroom instruction. Where I live, you must complete thirty hours of classroom instruction and three in-car driving lessons of two hours each. The in-car driving lessons were extremely helpful, so requiring more sessions could help people feel more comfortable with driving. There are also people who do not have an adult to practice their driving with, so having in cars with an instructor can ensure all new drivers are becoming qualified. Giving new drivers more experience before obtaining their license can help reduce the number of fatal accidents because they will be more confident and aware of others on the road.

Thankfully, I have never been in a car accident, but I have seen some of my friends and family drive irresponsibly. In the past, I have never spoken up about my friends and family driving irresponsibly because I do not want to sound annoying. However, I have come to learn how much of a disservice it is. By not letting them know how dangerous it is to drive irresponsibly, I am accepting that kind of behavior. I realize now that I should not stay silent because I am essentially putting my life in their hands. In the future, when I am driving with someone who may be going way over the speed limit or texting, I will be vocal about how uncomfortable it makes me feel. I think many of those who drive irresponsibly do not realize how dangerous car accidents can be until they experience it firsthand. However, it should not take a fatal accident to learn to drive responsibly.