Becoming a Safe and Confident Driver

Being a knowledgeable and competent driver is imperative for avoiding accidents. I recall a day when I was almost caught in an accident. My mom allowed me to practice my driving over the Summer. One day, I was driving my mom instructed me to turn onto an intersection. I almost missed my turn onto the intersection, and I was on the sidewalk. My mom panicked, and she turned the steering wheel for me, so I could get off the sidewalk. I overreacted, and I turned the steering wheel again and I was on the wrong side of the road. I felt anxious when I saw another car coming and I expected the car to collide into me. Thankfully, the car drove around us. I turned the steering wheel, and I was on the right side of the road. Then, I drove home. I learned a serious lesson, and I recognized the mistakes I performed while driving.

While driving, I should have payed more attention to my surroundings and remained calm. I can take multiple steps to correct my driving capabilities. While driving, I should have tried to be more alert and aware of my surroundings. I should have remained calm, so if I carry out a mistake such as turning onto the wrong street, I will not panic. Before driving, I can do a safety check on my car by checking my mirrors, adjusting my seat, and checking to see if my turn signals work properly. I can seek to understand more about the car I drive and its safety features. Plus, I should avoid multi-tasking which includes using my phone, eating, or using the navigation system. I will continue to practice driving to develop my skills. As a driver, I will always keep my hands on the steering wheel. Reaching these steps will help me develop into a competent driver.

We can take various steps to reduce car accidents. Drivers should seek to remain levelheaded while driving and they should wait for pedestrians. Drivers must obey all road laws, including stopping at a stop sign. They should avoid unsafe lane changes, incorrect turns, and tailgating. They must eliminate blind spots and interruptions as driving distracted is also hazardous and it can contribute to car accidents. The NHTSA recorded that 3,154 individuals perished because of distracted driving. Besides that, driving under the influence of alcohol is even more dangerous and causes car accidents. It is reported that drunk driving has killed over 10,000 people in 2012. Not to mention, exceeding the speed limit is just as risky. The NHTSA also noted that 9,478 people died because of speeding in 2019. A driver’s vehicle should always be maintained in an acceptable condition, and they must do repairs when necessary. A vehicle should be reliable and have exceptional performance. Further, I recommend they have advanced safety systems. Advanced safety systems include the front–collision mitigation, lane departure warning, blind spot monitoring, and the rear–cross traffic alert aid. These technologies can help to alert drivers of danger and prevent car crashes. Drivers can prevent car wrecks by adhering to the road rules and regulations. Ultimately, it is up to the driver to drive safely and responsibly.

It is advised that new drivers should take a driver’s education course, by taking the course it can help increase driving experience and prevent car wrecks. Students will be informed of what to do in certain situations, as they will become more familiar with road laws and regulations. Likewise, they will learn more about their vehicle, such as changing a tire, changing air filters, checking oil levels, and replacing the windshield washer fluid. They will learn to locate basic vehicle components, including the oil pan and radiator. The driver’s education course will test them to see if they are ready for the road. After taking the driver’s education course, drivers will feel more confident and experienced. The AAA (American Automobile Association) discovered that teens who took a driver’s education class reduced their risk of being in a car accident by 4.3% and receiving a traffic ticket by 40%. A Driver’s education course can provide the training needed for driving in various weather conditions. People who take a driver’s education class will learn defensive driving techniques. Further, the driving instructor can identify and correct a student’s bad habits. Sometimes insurance companies will even offer discounts for teens who complete a driver’s education course.

My driving experiences have helped me to realize my driving mistakes and improve my skills. I have learned there are several ways to become an experienced and safe driver. It is vital that drivers follow the road laws and regulations. A Driver’s education course will provide the training needed for a driver to become more skillful. I believe it is necessary for people to take driving seriously to prevent car crashes.