2023 Driver Education Importance Essay

Driver education is of great importance in reducing the number of deaths as a result of driving. I am a 16-year-old who has recently completed a driver education course at my high school. This course consisted of both learning the rules of the road (“textbook learning”) as well as driving with instruction (“physical learning”). It was an eight-week course which I’m glad I took the time to take.

I would have to say that driver education is critically important for young drivers, as it teaches you the traffic laws and rules of the road, the fundamentals of driving and the “do’s and don’ts”. As the course progresses, you become more confident in your driving knowledge and abilities. The instructor assesses your abilities and progress and determines whether you are ready for more challenging driving. In addition, I practiced on my own time with my father in the passenger seat. You learn that when you are driving you are responsible not only for the safety of yourself and those in your vehicle, but also for the safety of individuals in vehicles around you at all times. Understanding that your actions impact others is critically important and by being knowledgeable, aware of your surroundings, and a responsible driver reduces the chance of an accident which can harm you and others.

There are several steps that can be taken to reduce the number of deaths related to driving. Drivers need to drive in accordance with the traffic laws in place. This includes, but is not limited to, adhering to speed limits, obeying traffic signs and lights, no aggressive driving, be aware and alert of other vehicles around you, no drinking or using drugs and driving, no distracted driving (ie – cellphone usage), understanding changing driving conditions (ie – rain, snow, wind, sun glare, etc.), and maintaining a safe distance between you and the vehicle in front of you. It is also important to keep your vehicle in good working order. This means regularly scheduled maintenance checks and repairs, if necessary. Also, make sure your tires have the proper pressure, the brakes are working properly, your windshield is clean and free of cracks that may impair your ability to see properly. By maintaining your vehicle, you reduce the chance of breakdowns which can create additional hazard on the road for both you and others on the road. While you are driving, all passengers must wear their seat belt and passengers should not distract the driver while the car is in motion.

I was in a minor car accident when I was younger. My father was driving and we were around the corner from my house. My father passed someone that was pulling over to the curb (on the right-hand side). Unfortunately, this person decided to make a left turn from the curb to a driveway on the opposite side of the road. Apparently, she did not realize that my father was passing by her on the left and the two vehicles collided. This incident scared me. No one was injured but both vehicles had some minor damage. It did teach me a lesson though. The lesson I learned was to be extra careful when passing someone pulling over and make sure they are fully stopped before you pass them. Also, you need to anticipate what the drivers around you may do and give enough room between your vehicle and others in case the other driver does not act appropriately so you have time to brake and move out of the way.

Generally, in order to have a safe experience driving you must always adhere to the traffic laws. You need to be a defensive driver and need to always be alert to what other vehicles are doing around you. Regarding the safety of others on the road, it is important to realize that your actions have an impact on others around you. Being a responsible driver will help others be safer while they are on the road.

In conclusion, driving is a privilege which should not be taken for granted. People get in their vehicles every day and drive to work, school, to friends and family’s homes, they take road trips or sometimes take a drive just to clear their head. Everyone expects to get to their destination and back safely. While you cannot control everyone’s actions on the road, you can control your own actions. Your actions impact others around you. So, your safe driving helps prevent car accidents, injuries, and even fatalities. So to sum it up, be alert and drive safe!!!