Drive to Arrive

Skid marks from tires, shattered windshield glass, dismantled car parts, and blood soaked clothing are the images I get in my mind when my dad talks about an accident and whispers , “it was another fatality.” My dad is a California Highway Patrol officer, and these are the scenes that he is often called out to in the wee hours of the morning. Still other times these deadly accidents occur while on shift in the middle of the day, either way many deadly accidents could have been prevented.

Driver education is essential in reducing the number of deaths that take place as a result of drivers inability to access driving conditions and making poor driving decisions. As a fairly new driver, I recognize the importance of learning how to drive responsibly, but also the significance of being a safe driver while on my local roads and the interstates that connect us to family. Driver education classes can provide drivers with key reminders when driving in various types of situations. Drivers can learn how to properly use a car. Driving simulations may be a way to give potential drivers prior knowledge to situations before actually getting behind the wheel of a car and driving. Simulations are used for pilots and astronauts, so why not drivers? I also stand firm in my position that drivers who are older should also go through similar types of simulations. As we age, response and reactions delay too. Why not give drivers the chance to practice? Also, when drivers renew their license, I believe it would be beneficial for drivers to take part in case studies to raise awareness for situational driving experiences.

Unfortunately, even with all the practice I had driving with a permit, I had a fender bender approximately 8 months after getting my driver’s license. It was in the parking lot of a local establishment. The other driver backed into me and I was left speechless. I instantly had a ton of questions go through my mind. Did she look over her shoulder? Was she distracted by the guy in the front seat? Did she have a margarita at the restaurant she was leaving from? I was rattled to say the least and it was just a minor fender bender. Accidents are scary and I wasn’t in one that cost me my life.

I am not naïve to think that all young drivers are the reason for deadly crashes. Unfortunately, there are drivers who are impaired from other external factors like alcohol, marijuana, or an emotional situation like a break up with a loved one or death of a family member due to COVID. Although this is not an exhaustive list, these situations sadly end with a distracted driver that makes a poor decision, resulting in a deadly accident.

I want to do my part to help. Steps for ensuring safe driving are crucial. As you are aware, safe drivers aren’t born overnight. Safe drivers need to have support from other drivers who are more experienced. These role models can instill safety measures at a very early age. They can exhibit the significance of establishing appropriate driving protocols and demonstrate how to respond to distracting stimuli like music and text messages. I know personally having my dad be in a profession that encourages safe driving, has been key to my successful transition from passenger to driver. He has taught me to place my phone out of arms reach when driving and to keep my music at a low roar. He regularly drives with me and points out things I can still improve on while I am driving. He encourages me to always make improvements and gently reminds me that I need to follow all the posted speed limits and acknowledge traffic conditions, like rain and wind. I am fortunate to have an officer in my life that has provided me with valuable insight that others do not have. His insight has given me a voice to promote the importance of safe driving to my friends and has challenged me to have higher expectations of safety when driving. Drive to arrive, that is my plan each and every time I get into my vehicle.