Changing Gears: Every Drive Begins with a Safe Turn of the Key

Driving education is incredibly important in our society, where driving is one of the primary forms of transportation. We depend on it for commuting to work, attending school, and running everyday errands. However, the reality is that every day, whether I’m on my way to work or heading to class, I often witness at least one crash. It’s a reminder of the dangers on the road, and the news frequently highlights fatal accidents occurring around the world. We see it daily.

These crashes can be frightening, as even if we do everything right by ensuring that we have our seatbelts and following traffic rules—we cannot control the actions of other drivers. Every time we get behind the wheel, we’re faced with the unpredictability of the road. It’s a risk we all take whenever we choose to drive or use any form of transportation. We trust and hope that we make it safely to any destination where we are heading.

To address this serious issue, I believe implementing stricter regulations could significantly reduce the number of traffic-related deaths. For instance, drivers should be required to retake a driving test every few years to ensure they are still knowledgeable about the rules of the road and aware of any changes in traffic laws. This would not only reinforce safe driving practices but also help refresh their understanding of important regulations.

Furthermore, if a driver accumulates a certain number of tickets, they should be mandated to complete driving or traffic school courses and pass a retest to demonstrate their capability and responsibility behind the wheel. This approach would encourage safer driving habits and hold individuals accountable for their actions on the road.

Moreover, the licensing process should be improved, especially for new drivers. Comprehensive education about safe driving practices, the responsibilities that come with being a driver, and the consequences of reckless behavior should be emphasized. Currently, most people receive their license at age 16 after completing a course, but they are not required to retake a test afterward. I believe implementing a requirement to take refresher courses and pass a driving test periodically is essential. Enhancing driving education and regulation is vital for everyone’s safety on the road. By taking these steps, we can work towards reducing accidents, saving lives, and fostering a better understanding of the responsibilities that come with driving.

I’ve personally experienced several accidents in my lifetime, but the first one was particularly traumatic. I was on my way to the store with my grandparents when we stopped at a four-way stop. As we started to proceed, a car sped through and crashed into us, hitting the side of our van. The impact was so severe that our van flipped over, and I found myself hanging upside down, strapped in by my seatbelt, with glass scattered everywhere.

I remember feeling terrified, with my head pounding and my grandma crying in a panic while my grandpa checked on me. It turned out the driver who hit us was drunk and sadly didn’t survive the crash. My grandpa needed stitches for a cut on his ear, and my grandma was taken to the hospital for the night due to trouble breathing, pain, and whiplash.

The entire experience felt surreal, almost like a scene from a movie. One moment, we were singing and enjoying each other’s company, and the next, we were upside down in chaos, surrounded by shattered glass and the sounds of screams. Bystanders witnessed the whole thing, and it’s a memory that has stayed with me. We were doing everything right, yet the crash occurred because of the other driver’s irresponsibility. That is the risk that everyone takes when on the road.

As I mentioned, while we can follow the rules of the road, it’s essential that everyone else does too. Even one reckless driver can endanger not only themselves but everyone around them. If we all commit to following the rules—like obeying speed limits, using seatbelts, signaling turns, and keeping our lights on—we can create a safer environment. We also need to ensure our vehicles are well-maintained, with proper tires and brakes. Most importantly, the driver needs to stay focused on the road. This means avoiding distractions like cell phones, managing emotions to prevent road rage, and ensuring they’re not sleepy or under the influence. By holding ourselves accountable and following these standards, we can significantly reduce driving risks and potentially save lives. There are plenty of factors that contribute to being safe on the road and it all starts with us individually wanting to be better, to see better, and do better.