“It is like holding a gun”

My mom has constantly reminded me about the grave responsibility that accompanies driving. Her words have always stuck with – ‘being behind the wheel is like holding a gun, you hold other people’s lives in your hands’. It has profoundly influenced my perspective. Her words have instilled a deep-awareness about the risks associated with driving which has allowed me to think about better ways to become a better driver on the road.

I have come to understand that not only must I remain vigilant to avoid any accidents, but I am also vulnerable to the mistakes of others. Another’s mistake could also be detrimental for me. The unpredictability of the road is terrifying as one single mistake could lead to devastating consequences. In the blink of an eye, an error could occur that would irrevocably alter lives. Thinking about this has always made me feel uneasy about driving which is why I was terrified the first time I got behind the wheel. I did not know if I was ready to have this huge responsibility placed upon me, my moms words echoed in my head.However, this way of thinking has cultivated my cautious approach to driving. By acknowledging my responsibility on the road, I strive to minimize any and all risks and to ensure the safety of everyone on the road by doing what I can. As a driver, I have gained comprehensive knowledge on traffic laws and regulations as following them is important to ensure the safety of yourself and others. Anytime I am on the road I also eliminate any distractions, particularly my cell phone because a simple glance at it could lead to an austrophic result. I also make sure to remain alert and focused. Through ensuring these principles, I have taken steps to minimize any risk and help ensure the safety of myself and others on the road.

I have personally never been in a car accident and I thank God for that every day. However, my older brother has been in a car accident as a result of his poor decision making. When I remember the incident, I feel anger and disappointment towards my brother’s lack of judgment. However, I also feel relieved that everyone involved is alive and okay. However, this incident now serves as a harsh reminder of the dangers of driving recklessly and irresponsibility. My moms constant words, once a caution, now resonate deeply within me -”Being behind the wheel is like holding a gun”. The responsibility in someone’s hands while driving cannot be overstated. This accident has changed me because that night the doctors said my brother was lucky to be alive because of the severity of the crash. I now view driving as a privilege that demands one unwavering attention. One needs to understand that one poor decision, one moment of recklessness, can break families forever. One’s life can be altered with the blink of an eye, it only takes one second. This incident could have left our family broken, the thought of losing my brother terries me. However, it has brought our family closer through the difficult conversations and tears we have shed. My brother feels immense remorse but all he can do is learn from his actions and take steps to raise his awareness on the dangers of reckless driving. Driving is a responsibility that is not approached with a focused mindset, and would place others at risk. I urge people not to understand the power of driving recklessly as the consequences are devastating.

Driver education plays a crucial role in reducing the number of deaths as a result of driving. Through driver education, one has increased awareness of road safety and hazards, tHis allows them to ensure that they keep others and themselves safe. By knowing where hazards are, they can steer clear from them. By following road protocol they can also help avoid accidents. By promoting safe driving habits and attitudes, drivers can also help other people be safer on the road; thus, allowing themselves to be safer as well. Some steps that could be taken to reduce the number of deaths related to driving include improving road safety infrastructure such as lights and bumpy roads. They can also enforce traffic laws such as speed limits and the use of seatbelts. Overall, it is important to be a mindful and safe driver. One should not underestimate the responsibility that driving entails.