“Drive Like Your Life Depends on It”

2020
Drivers Ed Online Essay Contest

Questions
to be answered in your essay/application –
453 words

“Drive Like Your
Life Depends on It”

Driver
education is pivotal in reducing the number deaths as a result of
driving because it provides new drivers with the information they
need to be safe behind the wheel. It has been said that “knowledge
is power” – new drivers need to know what to do and what not to
do behind the wheel. For example, discussing problems that lead to
accidents, like drinking and driving or inattentive driving, will
help new drivers to avoid these problems. Using cell phones while
driving means making a choice to be distracted while driving, so this
is a very poor decision. When statistics are available, new drivers
will know what to avoid and how to stay alive. Statistics are clear
on not using cell phones while driving! Drivers ed also
provides practice for unexpected or emergency situations, so drivers
will be ready when an unforeseen event, like a tailspin on icy roads
or a tire blowing out on the highway, happens. There is no substitute
for practice behind the wheel. Driving under a learner’s permit
gave me the time and experience to practice with an experienced
driver in the car. I learned to drive at night and to drive in
heavier city traffic. Time spent behind the wheel learning to be an
effective driver is so important!

The
most important realization to have when driving is that a vehicle can
be a deadly weapon. If drivers recognize this every time they get
behind the wheel, they will be more likely to drive appropriately.
What this really means is – pay attention and drive as though your
life depends on it every time you get behind the wheel. If you always
drive as if your life depends on being an attentive, proactive
driver, your simple actions will reduce the number of deaths related
to driving.

I
have been fortunate because I have never been involved in a car
accident where my family, friends or I were driving. Our family takes
driving as a serious responsibility, and I think others need to do so
as well. I need to be a role model and remind others to drive as
though their life and the lives of those in their car depend on it. I
need to remind my family and friends to avoid distractions when
driving, like eating or using a cell phone. I need to be a good
citizen when I am in a car, whether I am the driver or not – I need
to not be distracted by others or distract the driver. These steps
will help me to be a better and safer driver, as well as help others
become safer on the road. So, to all drivers – “drive like your
life depends on it”!