Keeping The Roads Safe

Every time I get behind the wheel, I am reminded of how much responsibility comes with driving. It’s not just about getting from one place to another—it’s about making choices that can impact my life and the lives of everyone around me. I have spent countless hours preparing to be a safe driver, from taking formal driver’s education courses to logging over 100 hours of supervised driving with my parents before I was allowed to drive on my own. I’ve learned that driving is a skill that goes beyond just following the rules; it’s about awareness, patience, and making smart decisions in unpredictable situations.

Living in the DC Metro area, I experience firsthand how challenging it can be to drive safely, especially on the Beltway. The fast pace, aggressive drivers, and unpredictable road conditions make every trip an opportunity to learn something new. I’ve had my fair share of close calls—not because of anything I did wrong, but because of the reckless choices of others. I’ve been cut off by impatient drivers, watched people text while merging, and even seen cars speed past me like they were in a race. These moments have made me realize just how important it is to stay focused, anticipate what others might do, and always be ready to react.

One of the biggest dangers on the road today is distracted driving. I see it all the time—drivers looking at their phones instead of the road, trying to type out a message when they should be paying attention. It’s frustrating because a single second of distraction can change everything. I’ve made a promise to myself that I will never be that kind of driver. My parents have always emphasized the importance of staying focused, and I know that whatever text or notification pops up on my phone can wait. No message is worth a life.

I’ve also noticed that many young drivers feel overly confident after just a few months of experience. Some of my peers talk about driving with one hand on the wheel, blasting music too loud to hear emergency sirens, or even trying to eat while navigating traffic. While it may seem harmless at the moment, these little distractions can lead to major accidents. I remind my friends that even though we are young and capable, we are still learning. Every time we drive, we are gaining experience, and part of that experience is recognizing that safety should always come first.

Another major issue is driving under the influence. Even though I have never personally seen a friend or family member drive drunk, I know how common it is, and I understand the devastating consequences. Alcohol and drugs slow reaction time, impair judgment, and turn a car into a deadly weapon. So many accidents and fatalities could be avoided if people made the simple choice to never drive under the influence. I believe that eliminating DUI and DWI through stronger laws, better education, and easier access to safe alternatives like rideshare services could save countless lives.

One solution I would love to see implemented more widely is mandatory DUI education starting in high school. Many students don’t fully understand just how much alcohol and drugs can affect their ability to drive. They hear the warnings, but until they see real-life examples or participate in simulations, it may not sink in. Schools should offer programs that allow students to experience how even a small amount of alcohol can impair their judgment through controlled simulations.

Despite all the risks on the road, I don’t see driving as something to fear. I see it as a skill that, when done responsibly, gives me independence and confidence. I love the feeling of getting better each time I drive, learning how to handle different vehicles, and adapting to whatever the road throws my way. I also enjoy talking to my friends about their driving experiences, sharing advice, and learning from each other’s mistakes. We all want to be good drivers, and open conversations help us improve.

Even though I’ve completed my driver’s education, I know my learning isn’t over. I want to take advanced driving courses because I believe there is always more to learn. Driving isn’t just about passing the license test—it’s a lifelong skill that requires continuous growth. I want to be prepared for anything, whether it’s bad weather, sudden stops, or unexpected road hazards.

Additionally, I believe new drivers should be required to spend more time practicing defensive driving techniques. When I first started driving, I thought that following the rules was enough. But now, I understand that you have to drive for yourself and others. You have to assume that other drivers might make mistakes and be ready to react accordingly. This kind of thinking has already helped me avoid several dangerous situations on the road.

Driver education is one of the most effective ways to prevent accidents and save lives. It teaches new drivers not just how to operate a car but how to think critically on the road. More than that, it helps shape habits that can mean the difference between life and death. If more people took driving seriously—if they put their phones down, stayed sober behind the wheel, and made smart choices—our roads would be much safer.

For me, safe driving isn’t just a rule to follow; it’s a commitment I make every time I start the engine. I don’t take that responsibility lightly, and I hope that by continuing to learn and leading by example, I can inspire others to do the same. The choices we make on the road don’t just affect us—they affect everyone around us. If we all commit to driving smarter and safer, we can prevent accidents, protect lives, and make the roads a better place for everyone.