Driving Safe: The New Generation of Drivers

The newfound freedom of driving is a privilege often taken for granted by teens until something goes wrong. Every day millions get into their cars, believing that they are in control of whether they get to their destination safely. However, the reality is when driving you can contribute to the fate of many. Becoming a new driver is an exciting milestone, long awaited for. Every teen longs for the ability to drive whether it’s to hang out with friends, get to extracurriculars, or even just to stop at Chick-fil-A. What many don’t realize is that you are now faced greater freedom and greater responsibility. One wrong move, one distraction, one “mistake” can impact or even claim the life of another. Deaths caused by careless acts like driving under the influence, being distracted by cellphones, not wearing a seatbelt, and simply reckless driving are often a result of one crucial factor: New drivers being uneducated on the impact their actions have on others.

Driver Education is extremely important; however, many do not take it seriously. A lot of teens learn to take the test then forget it once they start driving. Driver education is not just about learning how to operate a vehicle or understanding road signs and signals; it is also about having a cautionary approach when driving. As a new driver it can seem like the road is a maze of signs, signals, and potential threats. It is very easy to become distracted or overwhelmed. Students should focus not only the technical aspects of driving but also the knowledge that can prevent life threatening accidents. When taking drivers education courses, you’re always presented with scenarios based on other people, their experiences, and what THEY should have done, your focus must shift to focus on what YOU can do. There are many courses that allow you to learn this information but are not required. As new drivers we must take the initiative to want to drive safely having all of the knowledge possible to be a better driver. Although the road is unpredictable the rate of being a part of a fatal accident decreases when drivers have the necessary knowledge.

To reduce fatalities when driving four steps can be taken. Step 1: Obtain the right education. As a new driver you must do your due diligence to obtain further training outside of what is required to get your driver’s license. Research other courses or programs that can give more of a non-technical approach. Allowing you to understand real life scenarios and situations. Step 2: Limit distractions. Investing in a phone stand, putting on a driving focus, silencing texts, limiting your number of passengers, are all ways you can limit distractions allowing you to focus and identify potential threats or stop you from becoming one. Step 3: Do not contribute to the recklessness. Why would you want to be one of those who speeds, texts and drives, or drives under the influence? These are all actions that you make the conscious choice to partake in at the cost of the lives of others. Step 4: Be aware of your surroundings! You may not be the cause of an accident, but there are ways to avoid others who may. Pay attention to things like the speed others are going around you or how close you are to someone in front of you. Caution does not equate to paranoia.

I’ve had multiple friends involved in accidents that were caused simply due to the lack of awareness. At my high school there has been multiple accidents this school year alone on campus because of reckless driving and distractions. Luckily none of them suffered injuries that were extremely severe, but all were accidents that can cause a new driver to be afraid to return behind the wheel. Distracted driving is a dangerous habit, and those who continue to drive reckless and carelessly fail to see how they are affecting the lives of others. Many situations could be prevented if a driver cared and learned about how they are affecting others with their actions. But because so many are lacking in this knowledge these issues still occur.

I know that I must practice what a preach. I have taken the initiative to seek out extra defensive driving courses in order to learn how to drive safer. I do so by limiting my distractions to the fullest by consistently being a hands-free driver, silencing my phone to avoid distractions from texts and social media notifications, and limiting the number of passengers I have, more passengers equal more distraction. I also make sure to watch those around me making sure my mirrors are positioned for a clear view of my surroundings. When in the car with friends, I also make sure to encourage them to use some of my strategies. Change cannot occur unless we do our part to make driving safer for all. As the new generation of drivers, we can do so by taking the initiative to do what is right.