Survive the Drive

A few years ago, my mother was driving me to hangout with friends when I watched a speeding motorcyclist collide with a car who had not seen the motorcyclist. As I watched the accident in what felt like slow motion, my eyes welled and my body froze all while my arm quickly moved to point to what had happened signalling to my mother that someone needed help. Later as sirens arrived after my mother had called 911, the scene was taken over by emergency services who thanked us and took our information as witnesses. While my breathing slowly returned to normal, my mind raced trying to figure out what could have been done differently to prevent this accident all together, and the answer was driver education.

Ever since I was able to understand the importance of driver education, my father, a bus driver, who sees unsafe driving everyday has relayed to me the stories that are often reminders of what should be done if I encounter the same situation. I started driving less than a year ago and hope to never encounter these stories while in the car but I know one day it will happen and I need to react properly. The power of driving and being able to operate something that can do harm if not used properly highlights the importance of driver education to me.

Spiderman’s quote “With great power comes great responsibility” can be applied to the power and responsibility that comes with taking the wheel. Like a superpower, driver education holds the power to prevent deaths and injuries that happen on the road. Essential skills needed such as hazard perception, proper driving techniques, and the ability to adapt on the road are learned in driver education. We may not all be a superhero In New York City but we have to remember, driver education skills can be the difference between life and death when operating a vehicle. Driver education also prevents risky behaviours, such as speeding, distracted driving, and driving under the influence. For example, places like Sweden and the Netherlands require comprehensive training and prioritise road safety campaigns. Sweden and the Netherlands are able to report some of the lowest traffic fatality rates worldwide. These education programs demonstrate that educating drivers effectively can save lives.

Although technology can be useful in driving, the topic has become more prominent in driver education courses as driving and phones do not mix. In 2021, CAA polling found that 47% of Canadian Drivers admitted to typing out or using voice memos to send a text while operating a motor vehicle. Phones are a great tool and piece of technology but many drivers need to be reminded that they do not belong in cars. Although police, especially in Canada, have increased their surveillance around phones in cars, in 2022 CAA found that 8 in 10 drivers admitted to distracted driving. Even though phone bans are in place when operating a motor vehicle, drivers must take the step to understand the harm they can cause and hold themself accountable in putting down their phone.

As a new driver, I focus on practicing responsible driving habits. One of the most important steps I have learned is eliminating distractions in my car. Putting away my phone, avoiding loud music, and keeping my focus on the road ensures that my attention isn’t divided. Continuing education is also vital, especially as I am a teenager in today’s world who wants to stay updated and “in the know”. Even after getting my license, I plan on staying informed about new road regulations or new driving techniques that can help improve my skills. Family members have also suggested attending defensive driving courses or practicing simulations for unexpected scenarios as practical ways to stay prepared and safe.

Whenever I hear sirens while I am in a car, I am reminded that a superpower exists—driver education—that reduces road fatalities and equips drivers with the skills to navigate roads responsibly. By being educated drivers, we not only protect ourselves but honour the lives lost to preventable accidents. Despite happening a few years ago, the motorcycle accident is a reminder of how a split second of carelessness can result in irreversible consequences; the motorcyclist’s speed combined with the car driver’s lack of awareness created a tragic outcome. An outcome that may have caused someone to lose their parent or significant other. This memory stays with me whenever I get behind the wheel, pushing me to prioritise safety and driver education. In this way, we contribute to building a world where driving is not a source of fear but a safe, shared responsibility.