“There is Indeed a RIGHT Way to Drive”

David
Tzorfas

2020
Drivers ed Online Essay Contest

Every
teenager remembers that day, the day where they finally pass their
written driver’s exam and can get behind the wheel. After months
of studying, listening to parents discuss driver responsibility, and
learning to obey traffic signs and signals, they seem more than
ready, right? Well, not ready enough, seeing as approximately 34,000
people die each year as a result of driving in the United States
alone. Driving can be a major benefit to one’s life, but at the
same time, it can be the event that ends it.

Driver
education is a vital aspect of a teenager’s journey to becoming a
responsible driver. These classes play a significant role in
reducing the number of deaths as a result of driving. Each student
is provided with a driver’s manual. Every page contains rules and
a plethora of information on how to become a responsible driver.
These educational classes are taught by a teacher who goes over what
is in the handbook. The instructors also engage prospective drivers
in activities to prepare them for the written exam. Some classes
have access to driving simulations, where students can “get behind
the wheel” in class and practice driving through cones and parallel
parking. Drivers ed is essential for training new drivers and
reducing the number of deaths that occur while driving.

There
are a number of steps that can be taken to reduce the number of
deaths related to driving. First, teenagers need to know that
driving is, unfortunately, one of the most dangerous acts they will
be involved in. They must understand that this privilege comes with
a great amount of responsibility. Next, older individuals who have
experienced the tragedies associated with driving accidents and are
willing to educate prospective drivers can share their experiences
with students. Finally, telling drivers to be
alert
and pay attention to other vehicles around them is the number one way
to avoid being involved in a driving accident.

I
have had the experience of witnessing one of my friends being
involved in a severe car accident. Driving accidents are not
something that can be easily forgotten; they remain engraved in our
brains as constant reminders of the importance of safe driving. Four
years ago, one of my friends was involved in a driving accident.
This experience took a great deal of time for me to recover from.

There
are a number of steps that I can take in order to continue to be a
safe driver and help others become safer on the road. I can stay
up-to-date with sign meanings and other driving regulations.
Unfortunately, all the preparedness and rule-following can only
ensure your safety when you
are the only one on the road.
Therefore, being aware of other reckless drivers can help you react
more effectively. I can help others become safer on the road by
telling them this and additional advice that I personally use, such
as reading online about driver safety learning more about the
consequences of unsafe driving practices.