Steering Towards Safety: The Imperative of Responsible Driving

Along with my twin brother, I got the honor of receiving my license in the summer of 2023. I have always been captivated by teenagers and thrilled when they reach the teenage milestone of obtaining a license, even as a little child. I saw it as the beginning of adolescent independence—being able to go out with friends more frequently, taking your own car to school functions, boasting about taking the car to school, etc. My ten-year-old brain failed to account for the risks associated with driving and the need for driver education.

Drivers education programs provide essential knowledge about traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. They also offer practical training in handling vehicles effectively, teaching maneuvers such as defensive driving techniques, proper lane changing, and emergency braking. With better skills and knowledge, drivers are more equipped to make informed decisions on the road, reducing the likelihood of accidents. One of the main goals of driver education is to help people recognize and avoid dangerous driving situations. By learning how to recognize dangerous situations early, drivers can take proactive measures to mitigate risks and avoid collisions. This includes understanding the dangers of speeding, driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, distracted driving, and the importance of wearing seat belts. Driver education instills a sense of responsibility and accountability among drivers. By educating individuals about the consequences of reckless driving behavior, such as speeding, tailgating, or aggressive driving, it encourages them to adopt safer habits behind the wheel. This can lead to a reduction in risky behaviors and ultimately decrease the number of accidents and fatalities on the road.

When I started learning how to drive, my mother made sure to tell me the importance of safety when it comes to getting behind the wheel. She always tells me that when I drive my life is not the only life I’m responsible for. I know it sounds silly but I think people forget that when they drive. Everyone has their own problems and issues to worry about- always so focused on the place they need to go that they forget the real dangers of a car. I have a friend, Najib. To say the least, his driving truly scares me. I saw him drive for the first time in the school parking lot. It is a nightmare trying to get out of the parking lot after school. There are buses, lengthy lines, parents attempting to have their kids picked up, and teenagers making every effort to get out. When it comes to driving, I like to be aware of my surroundings so I constantly look around and check my mirrors. I noticed a silver van speeding along as I looked in my passenger side mirror, trying to pass me and get ahead of the traffic. Before he reached me, I managed to brake and avert a serious collision. I was so surprised to learn that he drove like this, how reckless and uncautious he was. Especially when driving a bigger car.

I believe it’s critical for schools to teach driver safety in order to stop teenagers from driving in such a way. Driver education is not taught in schools, therefore even though it is the driver’s responsibility to educate themselves, I believe such classes would be beneficial to everyone. I had asked my friends if they knew Najib had always driven so recklessly and they said yes but his parents had no idea. Encouraging parental involvement in the learning process by providing resources and guidance for parents can reinforce safe driving habits at home. It will also be beneficial, in my opinion, to use peer influence by putting in place peer-to-peer education initiatives that enable teenagers to encourage safe driving among their peers. Encourage teenagers to actively participate in creating the driving culture in their towns and schools by holding peer-led debates, events, and campaigns.

To me actions speak louder than words so continuing to practice safe driving habits by obeying traffic laws, avoiding distractions, wearing seat belts, and following speed limits will help better and safer drivers as well as help others become safer on the road. I am continuously educating myself about safe driving practices, defensive driving techniques, and relevant traffic laws and regulations. Practice courtesy and consideration towards other road users, including pedestrians, cyclists, and fellow drivers. Use turn signals, yield the right of way when appropriate, and avoid aggressive behaviors such as tailgating or road rage.

By taking proactive steps to improve your own driving skills and actively promote road safety within your community, you can contribute to creating a safer and more responsible driving environment for everyone.