Name: Marshall Robertson
From: Blacksburg, Virginia
Votes: 0
Hidden
Dangers
Being
licensed to operate a motor vehicle is probably the greatest
privilege a teenager is ever given. It certainly was for me. As a
young, fragile sophomore, having access to a car also granted me
access to endless roads of freedom. Unfortunately, I at the time, and
most teens don’t realize the hidden dangers of driving a car until
it is too late. In fact, teens and young adults aged 15-24,
constitute the highest number of unintentional motor vehicle
accidents at roughly 10,000 per year (Driving
Statistics: The Cold Hard Facts About The Dangers Of Driving |
Drive-Safely.Net).
This statistic is both heartbreaking and shocking, but it doesn’t
have to be. If more people are taught proper drivers ed
starting at an earlier age, together we can reveal the dangers of the
road and reduce the number of motor vehicle deaths.
This
past summer as I was driving to work, I was side-swiped by a
car-carrying trailer. It shattered my passenger side window and
scared me to death. Although my car was damaged, I felt very lucky
that I didn’t suffer any bodily harm. Since that day, I have
promised myself to always practice hands free, sober, undistracted
driving. Drivers of all ages and experience should turn down the
radio, keep their phone in their pocket, and wait to eat until after
they have reached their destination. I also believe that passengers
should be respectful, positive examples to their driver. If you see
something that makes you feel unsafe as a passenger, speak up!
Nothing you will say will offend the driver more than being in a
severe accident. Also, if you are not yet old enough to drive but you
have questions about why certain things are done, ask your parents or
those who drive you, because it is never too early (or too late) to
learn. Drivers ed is an on-going process that continues well
into adulthood. Nobody is immune to mistakes, but proper education
will reduce the number of driving related deaths.
When
I was first learning to drive, and as I continue to, I ask for help.
My parents and teachers are always willing to answer questions
related to driving. To become a safer driver, I can surround myself
with others who I know will make wise decisions on the road. When I
am the passenger, I can help the driver to have a calm, focused
experience. When I am the one driving, I will only drive when I feel
healthy, awake, and perceptive. Before I drive, I will study the
directions, so I won’t be anxious on the road. I can help those who
are just learning to drive by sharing my knowledge and by explaining
the importance of safe driving. Although a lot of drivers ed
happens in the classroom, practicing safe driving behind the wheel is
the best way to improve. Don’t fear the hidden dangers of driving,
but instead allow them to motivate you to reduce them. I encourage
everyone to preserve the freedom and privilege of driving by being
educated and undistracted while on the road.
Works
Cited
Driving
Statistics: The Cold Hard Facts About The Dangers Of Driving |
Drive-Safely.Net.
https://www.drive-safely.net/driving-statistics/. Accessed 9 Nov.
2019.
