Every Mile Matters

In South Dakota, where I’m from, the legal driving age begins at 14. For many teenagers, this milestone is one of the most exciting moments of their adolescent life, offering a sense of independence and freedom. However, this excitement also comes with a stark reality: driving can be dangerous, especially when done without the proper knowledge and experience. Teenagers, who are just beginning to drive, are at a significantly higher risk of accidents because they often lack the education and skill necessary to handle the complexities of the road.Driver education is essential, however, only about 53% of young drivers take it. I am one of those who did not, and I deeply regret it. Looking back, I regret not taking that extra step to educate myself before getting behind the wheel. Driver education isn’t just about passing the DMV test or learning the mechanics of operating a vehicle—it’s about gaining the skills to make life-saving decisions. Without proper education, driving is like trying to write a book without first learning the alphabet. I didn’t understand the importance of things like defensive driving, proper lane discipline, or how to react in emergency situations when I first started driving. For a while, I felt like I was merely reacting to what was happening around me, rather than actually controlling the car. That lack of preparation was dangerous. It’s similar to when I first learned how to ride a bike—I fell several times and broke my arm in the process. If I had been given more guidance, maybe that injury wouldn’t have happened. Driving is like learning to ride a bike—it takes practice and guidance, and without it, accidents are inevitable.

One of the most crucial steps in reducing road fatalities is giving yourself enough time. Rushing to get somewhere often leads to speeding, which significantly increases the likelihood of a crash. We all know the feeling of speeding and the heart-pounding moment when you pass a police officer, but the stress that comes with that choice isn’t worth it. The speed limits are there for a reason—they’re designed to keep us safe. Slowing down and planning ahead can prevent tragic accidents and save lives. Equally important is increasing awareness of everything happening around us. Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of accidents, yet it’s something most of us do without thinking. Whether it’s reaching for our phone or fiddling with the radio, distractions reduce our ability to react quickly when something unexpected happens. I’ve had my moments of distraction, but after reflecting on the consequences of losing focus, I made a conscious decision to stay alert while driving. Being aware of your surroundings and anticipating what other drivers might do is key to avoiding accidents.

Car accidents have struck close to home for me, making the topic of road safety all the more personal. Over the years, I’ve watched friends and classmates get involved in accidents that either nearly cost them their lives or, tragically, did. One of the most painful experiences was losing a student from our school who was known for his infectious laugh and positive energy. He wasn’t even driving when the accident occurred, yet it affected everyone who knew him. It was a stark reminder that every person on the road has loved ones who care about them, and reckless driving affects more than just the driver—it impacts entire communities. Another close-to-home experience was when one of my best friends was in a car accident that left him in a coma for six months. His survival wasn’t guaranteed, and the accident caused irreversible damage to his life. He can no longer pursue his dreams of playing baseball, and he will need assistance for the rest of his life. His story is a painful example of how one driver’s careless decision can permanently alter the lives of others. As it’s sad these two will not be able to walk the stage with me during spring for graduation. This serves as a reminder that driving is not just about getting to your destination; it’s about being responsible for the lives of those around you.

Improving my own driving habits is something I take seriously. One simple step I’ve taken is to slow down. We all get caught up in the rush to get somewhere, but speeding is a major factor in accidents. Taking an extra few minutes to reach my destination safely is a small price to pay for avoiding a potential catastrophe. Another commitment I’ve made is to put my phone down while driving. Even if I’m tempted to check a message or change the song, I’ve realized that it’s simply not worth the risk. Driving demands our full attention, and it’s not a time to multitask. Lastly, I’ve come to understand the importance of staying calm and composed on the road. It’s easy to let frustration build, especially when I’m stuck in traffic or running late, but maintaining patience is essential. Emotional reactions can cloud our judgment and lead to unsafe driving decisions. By staying calm and focused, I can make safer choices and be a more responsible driver. Driver education is a vital tool in reducing road fatalities, but it’s just the beginning. To truly make a difference, we must all take responsibility for our actions on the road. Slowing down, avoiding distractions, and remaining calm can prevent countless accidents and save lives. The lessons I’ve learned from my personal experiences and from witnessing the consequences of reckless driving have shaped my commitment to being a safer, more responsible driver. It’s my hope that by sharing these lessons, others will be inspired to make the same commitment. Together, we can reduce the number of accidents and fatalities and create safer roads for everyone.