Drivers Ed: Saving Lives

The standardized mode of education for driving we have come to know as “Drivers Ed” is very important in reducing the number of driving-related deaths. It teaches future drivers many aspects that impact their safety, such as driving laws, observing what other drivers are doing on the road, and knowing what to do in different scenarios. Additionally, they also learn the consequences of making poor choices both prior to and during driving. All of these contribute to the development of a safe driver. This subsequently reduces the number of deaths on the road; “Driver’s Ed” reduces the number of deaths on the road.

I have had more than my fair share of being a passenger of irresponsible drivers. Many teens think that they “own the road” and can maneuver in any way they want; They also have a false mindset of being “invincible” in the event of an accident. However, we all know this is not the case. Please, respect other drivers because they are just as important as you are. Driving carelessly creates a dangerous environment both for them and for you. Trying to “beat the red” or recklessly overtaking other drivers increases the chance of an accident by quite a lot. Also, make sure that your physical and emotional state are in the clear before you drive. Being under the influence of alcohol or anything that reduces your reaction time and attention span would affect how you drive and your decisions in a catastrophic way. Thoughts in your head such as the being late for work also affects your decisions and could possibly induce road rage. If your body and mind are not clear, then your driving will not be

What should everyone do to be a safe driver? Well, just remember the many important things that “Drivers Ed” teaches. Prior to driving, make sure everything in your car is set accordingly. Make sure that your seat is positioned comfortably, mirrors are positioned to get the most side-and-rear-view possible, as well as your radio and climate controls are tuned to your liking. Doing so would reduce the adjustments you would need to make while driving, therefore increasing your attention of what is going on around you. More importantly, make sure that everyone in the car, both drivers and passengers, are wearing seatbelts. In the event of an accident, this is the only piece of equipment that protects them. During driving, keep in mind the traffic laws, signs, and your surroundings. It may say 45 MPH, but during winter when it’s the time of icy roads, drive slower. Keep a safe distance when driving behind others and start braking at a safe distance as you approach a stop sign or red light. Moreover, make sure to come to a complete stop at stop signs, as well as to be on the lookout for pedestrians that may be crossing. Most importantly, make the best decisions based on what the drivers around you are doing; Anticipate what they are going to do, and maneuver accordingly. Doing these would heavily increase the safety of yourself and others.