Precious Cargo

I can vividly
remember how nervous and excited I was to take drivers ed. At the end
of the week, I had learned so much about driving. I felt more
confident leaving drivers ed as I was taught the skills needed to
drive. What I really took away from drivers ed was the sense of
personal responsibility that comes with driving. Students were shown
the realities of how dangerous driving can be. It’s crucial to show
that driving isn’t all fun and games but actually, a great
responsibility as you are not only in control of your life but others
on the road as well. When I’m driving, it’s not just about me but
others in my car and on the road. My mom always told me to remember
the precious cargo in the car. Drivers ed is crucial for all
drivers to take because it not only teaches you essential skills for
driving but gives you a sense of personal responsibility toward
driving.

In order to reduce
the number of deaths related to driving, there are lots of options
that can be taken to combat this issue. States can require a test or
a short course when drivers renew their license to remind them of
driving rules. There can be campaigns at schools on safe driving and
the dangers of distracted and drunk driving. Also, there could be
more advertising on services that give rides to drivers who need
them. I believe knowledge is power, and the more information that is
given to drivers, the safer the roads will be.

My friends and I
were on the way to a football game. My friend was speeding and not
paying attention to the road. She took a turn too fast, and we ended
up crashing in a ditch. Everyone in the car was okay but it was scary
as it showed me how fast your life can change and the seriousness of
driving. I was shown the dangers of driving dangerously in drivers ed
but when I experienced it firsthand, it showed me how real it all was
and that it can happen to me too. That moment changed me because I
knew that I not only had to make sure I was driving safely but my
friends were too.

In order to be a
better and safer driver, I can make sure to always turn my phone on
drivers mode so I’m not distracted by my phone. If I see a driver
on their phone when I’m riding with them, I can offer to text
whoever they’re talking to so they will stay off their phone. Other
steps would be to check that everyone has their seatbelts on in the
car and to pay attention to the speed limit. Offering rides to
friends who shouldn’t be driving is something that I can do to help
others be safe on the road. Holding not only myself accountable but
others around me accountable can help make the road a safer place.