Driver Education Initiative Award

Almost a year ago, I passed my road test and was very happy to be a junior driver in New York State. However, before I was able to take my road test, I had to take a mandatory six hour driver’s assessment class. I learned a few things that would make me a better but young driver.

The importance of driver education in reducing deaths due to driving is a very important one. Teaching young drivers proper driving techniques such as how to hold the steering wheel, knowing the three second rule as a start can definitely help. I also believe that a person needs to be discipline, such as wearing a seatbelt once the vehicle is in drive.

I believe more speed cameras can help reduce people from speeding. Having the fear of losing money or having their driving privileges removed can make a person think twice. Also possibly a state mandated driving refresher course every two years could help as well. As a young driver where cellphones are a must, placing cellphones in an off mode while driving or in a carrying device, can help reduce deaths amongst drivers because it lessens distraction for all drivers. Many young drivers tend to text while driving and in a quick second taking their eyes off the road can lead to property damage, serious injuries or death. Weather plays an important role for inexperienced drivers. Whether it be a snowstorm, heavy rain, sleet or hail, if the driver cannot handle these weather conditions they shouldn’t attempt to drive. The glare from the sun rise or sunset can be distracting to drivers and can lead to accidents as well. Loud music can cause distraction to drivers as well. The inability to hear emergency vehicles while driving with loud music can cause serious accidents. If driving on a highway, proper lane positioning can help to prevent accidents in that it will make it easier for the driver to exit when necessary rather than waiting until the last minute to position the vehicle for exiting the highway.

Yes unfortunately I have been in the car with a friend who was actually texting and driving at the same time and almost rear ended another car. I was too scared and so was my friend that was driving and I told him to put the phone down until we stopped driving. That could have easily ended in a bad situation. Another time, I had to be home before curfew and was getting a ride from a classmate but had to decline because he smelt like Marijuana and I was afraid to be in the vehicle with him not knowing what mind frame he was in.

The steps I can take to be a better driver is by following the rules of the road such as following the posted speed limits. Not drinking alcohol and driving. Having a lot patience and getting good rest before driving. Signaling before changing lanes, using my mirrors and horns to announce parking and watching my surroundings. By giving myself enough time to travel, rather than rushing will make me a better driver. The time of day can help one become a better driver. If you arent accustomed to drive at nights, you shouldn’t do so. The glare from vehicles headlights can be damaging to one’s eyes preventing them from seeing properly. I also believe that proper car maintenance can help me become a better driver, if I don’t know a vehicle or how it has been maintained over a time I shouldn’t get behind the wheel. Knowing your vehicle is very important, also if you’re not accustomed to a large vehicle then you shouldn’t drive one until you’re comfortable with that vehicle. Also if a driver gets involved in a serious motor vehicle accident they should be mandated to do their road test over again and have preventative accident classes in their community to help others from making the same mistakes as they driver.

The above answers I believe are important factors one can learn from to help prevent the number of motor vehicle deaths. I believe that as a young driver one good practice is always try to be with an experienced driver when going on the road. As a young driver, I have come to realize that paying attention to signs, knowing the rules of the road and remembering that I’m driving for myself as others had made me a better driver so far. I know that experience drivers can also be at fault at accidents and or fatalities.