Name: Shawnna Gia Jones
From: Wynnewood, OK
Votes: 0
DMV ESSAY
In Oklahoma today, there is a lot of construction on the roads going from north to south. It is important, especially with the surge of young drivers behind the wheel, that they understand the laws, safety, and signs in construction zones. Driver’s education is crucial for young drivers, given the increasing number of changes, laws, and distractions.
In Oklahoma, you are required to complete a work zone drivers course, and I felt it was very necessary to obtain a driver’s license. The course taught me about the importance of being off your phone in a work zone, being very alert, and paying attention to the signs and markings on the road. Additionally, the course emphasized the need to reduce your speed when approaching a work zone, as this can help prevent accidents. It also highlighted the significance of being patient and prepared for unexpected stops or detours. I learned that even a momentary distraction can lead to serious consequences in these areas. Overall, I believe that completing this course will make me a more responsible driver.
To reduce driving-related deaths, steps that can be taken include defensive driving courses, avoiding any distractions, keeping the music volume low, and obeying traffic laws. Staying focused on the road and being aware of your surroundings can greatly enhance safety. Using hands-free devices for phone calls can help minimize distractions while driving. It’s also important to maintain a safe following distance to allow for sudden stops. Night driving requires extra caution, so adjusting your speed according to visibility is crucial. Regularly checking tire pressure and fluid levels can prevent mechanical failures. Lastly, encouraging friends and family to practice safe driving habits can create a positive influence on the roads.
I have experienced three car wrecks before, each leaving a lasting impact on my perspective about driving. The first one involved a girl who was on her phone, and she almost had a head-on collision with us. We managed to dodge her, but we ran into the ditch instead. When we pulled over to ask for her information, she was a young driver, very shaken up, and confessed that she was on the phone while driving. This incident highlights why it is crucial to stay off your phone while driving. If that girl had done that to someone who wasn’t paying attention, she could have very well caused a deadly crash.
The second car crash I was in occurred in New York. I wasn’t paying attention to the details of what happened, but I would like to highlight that nobody in the front seat was wearing a seatbelt. We hit another car on impact, and my friends in the front and passenger seats hit and cracked the windshield. This emphasizes the importance of wearing your seatbelt, no matter the weather or circumstances. Some people think a seatbelt is only necessary when there is bad weather, but you can’t predict how others will drive. Taking all safety precautions is essential.
The third wreck involved a distant family member who made a tragic decision. He had been drinking and decided to drive home, resulting in a head-on collision that killed two people. This is a huge problem in societies across the world. Drinking and driving are often normalized on social media and within personal circles. This mindset is not okay, as thousands of people die each day due to drunk drivers. It is crucial that we, as a society, take it upon ourselves to influence younger generations to understand that drinking or being high while driving is unacceptable.
We need to promote the idea that safe driving is a responsibility we all share. This involves speaking up when we see friends make poor choices and sharing our own stories about the risks involved. Education plays a significant role in this. Schools and community programs can provide valuable information about the dangers of impaired driving and the importance of making responsible choices. Parents can also set a good example by practicing safe driving habits themselves.
Engaging young drivers in discussions about the impact of their actions can be powerful. When they understand the consequences of distracted or impaired driving, they may think twice before making dangerous decisions. Sharing statistics, personal stories, and even real-life experiences can drive the message home. It’s not just about rules; it’s about life and the lives of others on the road.
In conclusion, driving is a privilege that comes with great responsibility. From understanding construction zones and reducing distractions to wearing seatbelts and avoiding alcohol, each action contributes to safer roads. My experiences have shown me firsthand how quickly things can go wrong, and I believe that by sharing these lessons, we can create a culture of safety. Together, we can work to ensure that future generations learn the importance of being responsible drivers, keeping our roads safer for everyone. Let’s take these issues seriously and strive to make our roads a better place for all.