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Driver Education Initiative – In the Driver’s Seat

Name: Tyler James LoPresti
From: Johnsburg, Illinois
Votes: 0

     I
would first like to introduce myself. My name is Tyler LoPresti and
I’m a senior at Johnsburg High School. Johnsburg is a small town of
about 6,300 residents. I plan on continuing my education at my local
community college and plan to transfer to a University to further my
education in the medical field. I have been a Type I Diabetic since I
was 14 months old and my brother was diagnosed with the same disease
at the age of 11. The medical field holds a special place in my
heart. I feel I can make a difference in someone’s life.

     Teen
Driving. Two words that makes any parent nervous. I have had my
license for about a year and a half now and I can definitely confirm
that it makes my parents nervous. I was nervous the first time behind
the wheel. Most importantly was taking the time to get all your
driving hours in.  Experience is key. The only way to get this
experience is by taking the time behind the wheel. I personally know
some that did not log all the hours and still went ahead and got
their license. Not a smart choice. I took my responsibility of being
behind the wheel serious. Not only for my sake but for the safety of
others as well. It is a privilege to drive. Not a right. 

     There
are so many distractions while driving these days. I can’t imagine
the world my parents lived in when the distractions were eating and
driving or messing with the radio and driving. Now the danger is
texting and driving. The danger is pounded into us daily, not only by
our loved ones.  The distraction is real. It is very tempting to
reach for your phone. I find it helpful to keep my phone in the back
seat or to silence my phone. It is not only a danger but it is
illegal in many states to not only text and drive but to talk on the
phone as well. My own personal distraction is managing my blood
sugars. I always make sure my numbers are in good order before going
behind the wheel. Medical issues are a concern to take seriously.
Always have whatever you need in case of emergency.

     Thankfully
I have not been in an accident. However, my dad has hit several deer
working his night shift job. He has taught me how to deal with this
type of situation. Tragically my aunt lost her boyfriend 2 years ago
in a drunk driving accident. It was his fault. He flipped his car
into a ditch and ended up on life support for 10 days until he
finally passed.  This made a huge impact on me becoming a new
driver.

     Be
present. Always pay attention. Limit all distractions. In doing this,
you can be confident in knowing you’ve done everything in your
power to be a safe and responsible driver.