In the Driver’s Seat

In the Driver’s Seat

Alaina Boone

October 4th, 2020

The importance of driver education is to teach people the regulations and responsibilities of the road. Drivers education saves lives by preparing teenagers and anyone to know how to drive and why it is important to drive responsibly. Drivers education provides the skills, attitudes, and knowledge needed to both drivers and pedestrians. Without having any knowledge of traffic laws or signs, teenagers just learning to drive would be far more dangerous and put many more lives at risk.

Some steps that can be taken to reduce the amount of deaths caused by driving are being more wary on the road and considerate of others. A major cause of crashes are the distractions people have while driving. Distractions can be changing the radio, eating, talking to a friend, your phone; pretty much any activity that takes your focus off of driving is a distraction and should be avoided. Distractions lead to crashes which lead to deaths and injury, so it’s important to be more considerate of what may happen if you take your focus off the road. You can also make sure you are rested so you don’t fall asleep while driving which is very dangerous, and can check your vehicle before driving. Adjust anything you need to like your seat, mirrors, and set up what you want to listen to and get texting or calling someone out of the way before getting in your car. Put on your seatbelts, it is a law and you’re not cool by keeping it off, they can save your life by keeping you from pushing forward when hit by much force. Prepare for your drive at all times and you should be fine.

I was in a car accident when I was younger, but haven’t gotten into one since, thankfully. I don’t have much experience of being in accidents or having family or friends being in an accident but I am aware of what irresponsible driving is and the effects it can have on others. I have experienced first hand drivers with “road rage” being very reckless, putting people in unnecessary situations that could cause injury or death to themselves and everyone around them.

I don’t drive yet because I’m underage but when I start driving I am going to be responsible and take a drivers education course so I can obtain the knowledge needed to be a smart driver. I am going to keep my family and anyone I know who drives in check by making sure they follow the laws and are being responsible. As a responsible driver you should know that your life is not the only one that is at risk. Your driving puts everyone else’s lives with you or around you at risk if you choose to drive thoughtlessly. So think before you do because you can’t go back in time to change an accident.