In The Driver’s Seat

I am currently applying for scholarships and grants to continue my education in healthcare with the intention of obtaining a bachelor’s in nursing. I would ultimately become a Registered Nurse and work in the Operating Room. I am grateful for the opportunity to contact you and apply for your support on this educational journey.

It seems ironic that I am writing an essay on driving safety, seeing how I was involved in a car accident just yesterday. I was on my way to work, and I was rear-ended while waiting at a red light. I could hear the screeching of the car behind me, and before I could comprehend what was taking place, I was hit. I am so incredibly lucky to be unharmed. Having experienced an accident firsthand, I have a much more personal perspective on driving safety.

Driving education plays a critical role in reducing the number of deaths resulting from driving, ensuring all drivers understand traffic laws, road signs, and other miscellaneous safe driving practices. It is imperative to teach people, future drivers of all ages, defensive driving techniques such as maintaining a safe following distance, anticipating potential hazards, and reacting appropriately to all situations, not just dangerous ones.

Offering in-person and online classes allows students of all ages the flexibility to learn at their own pace. I support the ever-changing world of technology, and I believe an online drivers ed course would cater to more individuals; however, guidelines must be established. The required test and driving skills test should still be a pivotal part of the license process.

When I was in high school, I was able to participate in a drunk driving simulation experience provided by the City of Houston police department. We were on a safe, monitored course in this experiment, but we (the drivers) were in a modified vehicle. Along with “drunk driving simulation goggles,” a speed-regulated car, and a second driver-the police officer-we were instructed to navigate a driving course. Several obstacles were placed in our way at random intervals, and we had to act quickly and accordingly. This simulation opportunity should be offered to as many new drivers as possible. Teenagers are statistically more likely to be involved in fatal car crashes due to their inexperience and susceptibility to risk-taking. This experiment was eye-opening, and I still think it positively influences how I behave behind the wheel. It was fascinating to comprehend better the type of situation we avoid when we drive under the influence. Driving education is not only for teaching how to prevent drinking and driving. Many people, like me, are more likely to remember situations like this as a hands-on opportunity to understand why we need safety education. Often people may see driving education as a simple necessity.

I believe citizens of driving age (around age 16) must participate in a mandatory exam to become a licensed driver. This has been a practice for decades and should continue to be so. However, I believe all licensed drivers should take an additional exam to maintain that license later in life. Consider it a license renewal and maintaining protocol. Some laws and practices are consistent; however, not all older drivers are aware of any recent changes that may be made to the driving conventions. This knowledge of those changes helps drivers of all ages avoid common violations, such as speeding or running red lights, which are major causes of accidents. Knowing the rules also promotes safer driving behavior in general. For experienced drivers, building upon prior knowledge would also build confidence in drivers who may feel more intimidated by driving in later years.

I share these stories with my friends and family to remind them that their actions on the road impact more than just themselves. I do my best to help those I ride with stay distraction-free. We are a society constantly going and distracted, ready to move to the next task. Texting and driving are a major concern that was not always an issue. Phones should have an option for text muting while driving. This should be mandatory. No one should be able to enable their phone when the vehicle is in motion. Little changes such as this will make a significant difference in the long-term, to the safety of one’s driving.

I also offer to drive if I am concerned the individual cannot do so for whatever reason. Sadly, all other accidents I have been involved in occurred when I was not the driver.

When drivers are better prepared, they are less likely to engage in risky behaviors that lead to fatal accidents, ultimately reducing the number of deaths caused by driving.