Every time we get
on the road, we are reminded of the many rules and laws created to
ensure a safe and pleasurable time on the road. Along with following
the law, there are various ways to stay safe while driving that
include; avoiding aggressive drivers, having an alert mind while
driving, appropriate following distance, speed, and being aware of
the driving/ road conditions. All of these factors are good to keep
in mind when operating a vehicle whether on a familiar road or going
somewhere that you might be unfamiliar with.

One of the many
conditions that can lead to unsafe driving is your ability to control
your emotions and/or stress levels. Little things such as the type of
music you might be tuning into or the state of mind you were in when
leaving your prior location. Loud, upbeat, angry music can get your
adrenaline going and subconsciously cause you to speed or do other
things that you wouldn’t necessarily do when not listening to music
at all. It is also important to be driving in the right state of mind
and leave with enough time to get to your destination. Our heads need
to be clear and we must not be distracted by anything that could
alter the way we operate a moving vehicle. During my junior year, I
had to be taken to school by my close friend and on the days that we
were running very late, she would speed going double the posted speed
limit and sometimes make wrong turns in the process all because she
didn't have her mind straight on how we needed to get to school
safely and on time. In driving school, we learned that if we are
late, then that's better than not getting to our desired location
harmed or unsafely and possibly putting other lives in danger.
Each and everyday
we are able to make the personal decision to drive safely or to drive
in our definition of efficiently. For most, efficiency should start
before entering the car by making planning out the appropriate time
to leave and assessing which roads to take and what may occur while
being on those roads. Being able to multitask and plan ahead are key
components to be a safe and efficient driver while going through the
busy roads from day to day. By making the choice to be a safe driver,
we are aiding in our own survival each time we get behind the wheel.