The Significance Of Drivers Education

Driver’s education is extremely vital to overall road safety. With the proper classroom materials education and the behind the wheel education, this will lessen the chance of a fatal accident protecting yourself and others behind the wheel. Driving is not a difficult skillset to master but without the proper knowledge of traffic laws, you are more prone to an accident.

With today’s technology, there are multiple ways of receiving the education required to operate a motor vehicle. There are online self-taught drivers ed and parent taught models. This method is more conducive to the individuals with a fast-paced life who require an education that is flexible. Additionally, there are classroom options that give an individual more of a hands on approach more designed to the individual. Both options are successful if conducted in the matter it was designed for. The overall objective is to ensure the individual receives the education that will lead to success regarding safety while driving.

Some people think getting behind the wheel and operating a vehicle is pretty simple if they know how to use the gas and brake pedals. What isn’t considered is how to operate the motor vehicle during inclement weather conditions and obeying the traffic signals. During driving education, there are in depth courses focusing on traffic signals and learning how to navigate the vehicle when the weather isn’t favorable.

There is statistical data that show a direct correlation in the number of accidents by educated and experienced drivers. These drivers are less likely to be involved in fatal accidents. While we know that accidents are part of driving, if well-educated the severity is lessened.

One of the biggest issues with young drivers is distractions and reckless driving. Social media and the internet has essentially taken over as the main source of entertainment for young individuals. For this reason, distracted drivers are often on their phones viewing stories or responding to messages. This has proven to be the cause of several near fatal and fatal accidents. Driving while under the influence is also a main factor when it comes to accidents. This is prevalent in all drivers, not just young drivers. When your vision and focus is impaired, your brain is unable to comprehend the basic knowledge of safe driving. During driver’s education (online or in-person) there are multiple focused modules highlighting how these distractions can lead to accidents and future consequences of the actions.

Driver’s education also focuses on ensuring that one’s vehicle is maintained to standard. It teaches the operator how to ensure maintenance is a priority to avoid worn-out ties, mechanical problems and brake issues that could lead to accidents.

Through all of the education modules, commercials on TV and social media awareness, there are still drivers that do not adhere to the rules of the roadway. Unfortunately, this is something that I experienced firsthand with one of the students I volunteer with who goes to a nearby school.

This particular incident was due to speeding and reckless driving. The individual got into a car with a friend that had recently purchased a new car. The driver began speeding to show off the car and exceeded the speed limit to nearly 100 MPH. The driver lost control of the vehicle and it flipped on its side causing one of the passengers to be thrown from the vehicle. This incident led

to his death. This particular incident shaped me in a lot of ways. First, I was extremely sad for his family as they were left with so many unanswered questions and heartbreak. It also taught me that life is so important and it is extremely vital to stick with the education learned from defensive driving and not become a victim of distracted driving.

Without education, drivers may not fully understand the magnitude of their actions or understand the impact that poor driving habits can have on their safety.

In my education, I’ve used the steps below to ensure I am safely operating my vehicle.

1. Following the Speed Limit – It is important to adhere to the speed limit in the event of an unforeseen incident that could impede your vision. Particularly, this is important during inclement weather events and work construction areas.

2. Zero Distractions- I do not use my cell phone while driving. I specifically put my phone on driving mode so that I won’t have the distractions of phone calls, texts, or social media notifications. Because of what I personally experienced, this is something I am extremely cautious about.

3. No Impaired Driving- I do not consume alcohol or drugs and I make it a priority to never drive while I’m sleepy to avoid falling asleep behind the wheel.

4. Seat belts- Regardless if I am running to the corner store or driving a long distance , I am always wearing my seat belt as I know this can save lives.

5. Alert Defensive driving – Defensive driving involves potential hazards and adjusting one’s driving accordingly. Maintaining a safe distance from other vehicles is definitely key.

6. Vehicle Maintenance: Proper vehicle maintenance is essential for ensuring the safety of both the driver and others on the road. Regularly checking the tires, brakes, lights, and fluids can prevent mechanical failures that may lead to accidents.

Driver’s education is essential to a healthy driving experience. Proper education will lead to a well-rounded operator that will prevent accidents on the roadway. Due to personal experiences, I am even more cautious of these things and make it a priority to keep myself safe and others on the roadway. Safety should be everyone’s top priority and properly educating yourself and adhering to the regulations will yield a positive result.