Driving is a matter of life or death

Driving
brings a sense of freedom and independence. As amazing as these
things are driving is a very serious matter that can be life
changing. One bad decision can mean life or death for either yourself
or others on the road. Drivers ed is so important for people to
gain the knowledge about safe ways to drive and what to do and not to
do while on the road. Not only is driving a car a privilege, it takes
a lot of responsibility and commitment. I believe that when someone
is behind the wheel their number one priority should be safe driving.
One small mistake can change a person’s life forever. Making people
more aware of how their actions can change someone’s life or even
end a life by the way they drive is the first step that can be taken
to reduce the number or deaths related to driving. I am 20 years old
and I have been in 8 different car accidents before I was 18. I was
never the one driving but I now have the experience and have come to
the realization of how important paying attention to the road at all
times is. If I am driving with someone who is driving recklessly or
distracted, I will call them out on it and tell them that this is not
the time to be messing around. When I am personally driving, I make
sure that my phone is out of reach and if I need something, I ask the
person that is in the car with me or I wait until I get to where I am
going. Those car accidents that I have been in have changed how I act
in the car. I get super nervous and on edge when other people are
driving. Thankfully, the worst that has happened is that I broke my
collarbone. I will never forget the fear, the sound and the feeling
of another car crashing into ours. Once the initial impact takes
place you just sit there and wonder “did that really just happen?”
I think everyone can take steps to be better and safer drivers.
Getting into the car knowing that driving is the main focus as well
as your surroundings is most important. Not letting small things
distract you and being a responsible driver can change the number of
deaths and accidents that take place. Think of driving as a privilege
and be thankful that you have the opportunity for that source of
transportation. Now make it a priority to keep yourself and others
safe.