The Reality of Driving

The
Reality of Driving

There
is a great deal of excitement surrounding teenagers and their first
time behind the wheel. Like many other teenagers, I was ecstatic when
I was eligible to drive as it meant another step towards
independence. I constantly fantasized about driving around with my
friends and no longer needing to rely on my parents to drive me
everywhere. However, there is so much more to driving than having
freedom; it’s accompanied by risks and responsibilities.

Driving
education is essential as it not only teaches a person how to drive
but the rules associated with driving as well. It is important for
new drivers to be aware of how dangerous driving can actually be.
Young people can be naive and sometimes ignorant, and have a mindset
that accidents are so “far out of reach” and it “cannot happen
to them.” The most important thing a new driver must understand is
how tragedies have no favorites and can happen to anyone if you don’t
remain cautious. It is important to keep in mind that when you drive,
you put yourself, your passengers and other people on the road at
risk. Essentially, beginners should master the skill of defensive
driving, or what a previous instructor of mine said, which is to
“always expect the worst.” What if it is my turn to go and
another vehicle tries to beat a light? What if another vehicle merges
onto my lane when it is not clear to do so? These are possible
scenarios that all drivers should be prepared for.

Motor
vehicle accidents are of course preventable. The number one rule to
decrease death rates due to driving is to give your undivided
attention to the road. Hitting the road is not a time to multitask,
and all distractions should be limited. Handheld devices such as
cellphones should be put away before you begin driving. All calls and
text messages can wait; avoid using the phone even at a stopped
light. Distractions can also come in the form of food, blaring music
or even driving when you are not emotionally well. Those who are
under the influence of drugs or alcohol should not be behind the
wheel, even if the amount consumed was not considered “a lot.”

Personally,
I am lucky to have not experienced a motor vehicle accident first
hand. However, I have witnessed road rage by loved ones, which can be
a scary sight. As a driver, I can prevent any accidents by abiding by
all traffic rules and regulations, as well as ensuring the passengers
in my vehicle utilize the seat belts. If in cases I am not driving, I
can simply remind a loved one to focus on the road and keep them from
driving if they are intoxicated or upset.

The
true goal of driving is to get you and your passengers’ destination
safely. We can all do our part to ensure the roads remain a safe
place by staying educated, following the law and practicing safe
habits.