Beginning
drivers ed is a turning point in most American teens’
lives. I remember my first day of driving lessons and not
understanding how the lessons would help me in the future.
Retrospectively, I can see how my drivers ed has laid the
foundation for safe driving practices. In New Jersey, we are required
to take six hours of driving lessons. For me, this was over three
days in two-hour chunks with an instructor. During the experience, I
never touched my phone or listened to music and always wore my
seatbelt. Likewise, my instructor gave me tips to consider while
driving. My drivers ed now allows me to make split-second
decisions that can save my life and the lives of those around me.


While
I consider myself a safe driver, I recognize the risks that are
associated with driving. Therefore, it is my job to reduce the
possibility of death or injury for my passengers, fellow drivers, and
I whenever I am behind the wheel. For me, this begins with taking my
drivers ed seriously. Rather than ignoring the suggestions
from my instructor or laws I learned while studying to gain my
license, I keep these in mind while driving. As a result, I am less
likely to cause the deaths of myself and others on the road.
Likewise, I always make sure all passengers in my car wear their
seatbelts. Finally, I eliminate distractions while I drive.
Cellphones are not the only distraction today, especially for
teenagers. Therefore, I keep my music to a reasonable level and let
my passengers know if they are too distracting.

I
am blessed to have never had any of my loved ones be in a car
accident caused by irresponsible driving. However, many of my friends
and family exhibit unsafe driving habits that make them a danger to
themselves and others. When adults in my life first got cellphones,
they would talk on the phone without hands-free devices, taking their
eyes off of the road and hands off of the wheel. Now, many of my
peers text, use social media, or video chat while driving. While I
cannot control the actions of those around me, I can refuse to be a
passenger in the car of unsafe drivers. Likewise, I can stand up for
safe driving choices, even if it’s not the “cool” thing to do.
For example, I can ask to turn down loud music or for my friends to
be less rowdy while in the car.

Ultimately,
there is no doubt that teen drivers are at risk for vehicular
homicide. Therefore, we must work to keep ourselves and those around
us safe regardless of the social cost.