A Shared Responsibility

As a graduate of a driver’s training course and 17-year-old licensed driver of one year, the freedom and excitement of having a license to drive is undeniable. I feel that I am a serious driver who understands the importance of driver education for prospective drivers. Driving can be dangerous and it’s our collective responsibility to make it the safest experience we can for everyone involved. To that point I will attempt to explain my views on the importance of driver education, steps to reduce driver related accidents and what I can do to continually improve my skills and contribute to a safer experience for me, my passengers and all others with whom I share the road.

Driver education is a key component of enhancing driver safety and not just about learning how to operate a vehicle; it’s about equipping individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate the roads safely. It provides a foundation for responsible driving, stressing the importance of obeying traffic rules and practicing defensive driving techniques. Driver education programs are critical to making safety a priority while on the road. They are instrumental in teaching us about the risks and dangers associated with driving, thus making us more cautious and attentive as drivers and passengers. Through learning about the common causes of accidents, new drivers can make informed decisions, minimize risky behaviors and as a result reduce the number of accidents on the road. It also helps ensure that we understand the rules and guidelines that govern the road for the safety and benefit of drivers and non-drivers alike. The knowledge and practical experience provided by a driver’s education program is key to helping young drivers in particular avoid accidents, legal trouble, fines, inflated insurance costs and maintenance of a clean driving record. It instills a sense of responsibility by emphasizing the potentially dire and often life altering consequences of reckless driving, such as injury, death, or damage to property.

Driver related accidents, injury and deaths on the road are unfortunately a grim reality, but by following a few key steps drivers can work to avoid and thus reduce such tragedies. Right out of the gate the low handing fruit would be avoidance of using your phone or taking part in any activity that takes your attention off the road and what is going on around you. Stay focused on the road and your surroundings, paying particular attention to speed limits, stop signs, traffic signals, road construction signage and other drivers. Additionally one should never under any circumstances operate a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Anything that impairs your abilities will be potentially catastrophic when it comes to safely piloting a vehicle. Anticipating the actions of other drivers and being prepared for the unexpected is also something that drivers should always do in order to make driving a safer situation. This includes maintaining a safe distance between you and the vehicle in front of you in addition to using your mirrors regularly and correctly. Another important responsibility of driving is ensuring your vehicle is properly maintained with items such as tires, wipers and windshield washer fluid being among the most important items to stay on top of. And lastly, seat belts should always be worn by the driver and all passengers as there is no denying the life saving functionality they provide.

I personally understand that I have a huge responsibility relative to road safety. Being a new driver I have already learned many things that driver’s education just cannot effectively convey, which has taught me that driver safety is a continual and ongoing process. To that point I try to treat other drivers with respect and courtesy, remaining calm when faced with potentially aggressive drivers and striving not to escalate things. I also remind myself that it is not in my best interest or that of other drivers to succumb to peer pressure when it comes to risky activities like speeding or anything that might distract me or put others at risk.

The road is a shared space where our actions impact not only ourselves but also countless others. By embracing driver education, adhering to safety measures, and making a conscious effort to be a better driver, we can collectively reduce the number of driver deaths and contribute to a safer, more responsible driving culture. As a 17-year-old I am committed to doing my part to honor the distinct privilege and shared responsibility of driving. It’s all our responsibility to make our the roads safer for everyone.