Driving Safe is YOUR responsibility

Driving Safe is YOUR responsibility…

Driving can be a scary thing. You alone controlling this metal on wheels is a huge responsibility. This was a responsibility I did not want at first. I would rather be driven by a chaffer I would say. It’s the only time I get to spend with you during the day, so that one of my parents could drive me. I felt like I was not ready for such a huge responsibility. I’ve never been behind the wheel or backed the car out of the driveway. You also need to know where you are going, how fast you are going, and are you in your lane, is this a one-way street? I didn’t even really know how to get to my school or work, let alone drive there myself. Now knowing the rules and some driving experience, I feel much better about driving now.

It is very important for new drivers, during driver education, to learn what could happen when taking risks while driving. During driver education new drivers are provided with the stats of car accidents due to reckless driving, speed, under the influence of, as well as distracted driving. It is equally as important to know the laws. Understanding the laws and rules of the road can help prevent accidents and allow you to be a safer and more prepared driver. Driving with the instructors and others in my class was an experience. This is when you learned what to do and especially what NOT to do.

Everyone should take the following steps to reduce the number of deaths related to driving. It may not prevent all accidents, but should help in reducing the number of accidents.

• • Be prepared by knowing how long you will need to get to your destination

  • Not rushing when driving and staying within the speed limit

  • Always wearing your seatbelt, as well as any of your passengers

  • Limiting your passengers, it may be necessary at times, but can also be distracting

  • Absolutely no texting or driving under the influence, it is NOT worth it

  • Know where you are going and approximately how long it takes to get there, GPS can help with knowing when to turn to get to your destination

I’ve never been in an accident. and have not really experienced too many times when others driving were being irresponsible. I have witnessed others while I was driving, swerving in and out of traffic. I think to myself, what is your hurry if there is such a high risk of you not ever getting there if you cause an accident. I’ve also had to drive by a few accidents while driving. Seeing all the flashing lights from the police and ambulances just makes it all the more real that this could happen to me or one of my friends or family memebers. This only reminds me to be more cautious when driving, and to hopefully be able to avoid any accidents if possible.

There are several ways one can be a better and safer driver, as well as help others become safer on the road. I try to make sure I have plenty of time to get to where I need to go, especially if the weather is going to be sketchy. I keep my distance from the cars in front of me, so I have enough time to react if the cars ahead of me stop or slow down. I put my cell phone away while driving, so it doesn’t distract me. I encourage my friends to do the same. Packing a lot of patience in the glove box is also a good idea. Most mornings are fine as I try to leave early enough for school to avoid morning rush hour. So much better to drive with less cars on the road, but can not be avoided all the time. On the way home after 3pm is very congested, so I opt to stay at school and do homework until the evening commute is over. There are some days I do have to travel at the time back home and that’s when I remember to open up that glove box so that the patience comes out. It can be brutal, usually bumper to bumper and almost twice the time to get home. It never seems to amaze me how many people are in a hurry or not even paying attention half the time because they are not looking at the road. I hope someone reads this essay and can relate to the things I have mentioned and possibly even incorporate a few of the things I do to drive safe and to take responsibility.