Driver Education Initiative Annual Scholarship Essay

Driver Education Initiative Annual Scholarship Essay

Sasha Bahash

As a young driver, I acknowledge the importance of safety and awareness when driving. Driving is a privilege, not a right, therefore drivers must claim full responsibility for their actions and how it may affect others. 

The importance of driver education in reducing the number of deaths as a result of driving is significant. Nearly 1.35 million people die every year from fatal car accidents, not including the millions of people who suffer from injuries and long term injuries or disabilities. Driver education will reinforce the importance of awareness and instruct drivers how to safely avoid car accidents. Before obtaining my driver’s license, I took the Driver’s Ed class at Florida Virtual School and passed with an A. Not only did I take several online lessons and tests, but I also had many practice hours with a parent to ensure the safety of myself and others when driving independently on the road. The Driver’s Ed course also required essays and watching videos involving how to safely respond in certain situations while driving.

There are several steps that can be taken to reduce the number of deaths related to driving including the sobriety of the driver and the absence of technology causing distractions for the driver. Driving under the influence is illegal and also life threatening as it has taken many lives. During the era of technological advancements, it is vital to avoid contact and interaction with cell phones, touch screen radios and/or any other devices when driving because it removes your full attention when driving. Accidents can occur in the matter of seconds if driving doesn’t receive complete focus. Another step is being cautious at intersections, specifically, if you are able to make the light. Despite the driver’s agenda, slowing down when approaching a yellow light is the safest option as you avoid putting other’s lives at risk trying to run the light hoping you’ll make it before the light changes.

Although I have never experienced a car accident, I have witnessed friends make irresponsible decisions that may potentially put others at risk. Driving responsibly and safely is a priority because one’s actions may permanently affect others. If you’re put in an unsafe situation and have the opportunity to call someone for a ride home, it is in your best interest to do so. 

Steps I could take to be a better and safer driver as well as help others, is make sure when driving, I am always alert and oriented. This includes sobriety, being well-rested and eliminating any and all distractions. A major factor in the safety of drivers is the action of wearing a seat belt. I believe this is underlooked because it is a simple task that can decide the survival of a driver and their passengers if affected by a collision. Driving is not a right, it is an earned privilege for those who take responsibility and apply their driving education when taking on the road.