In The Driver’s Seat

In The Driver’s Seat

Driver’s education is immensely important in reducing car accidents and deaths as a result of driving. Driver’s ed is able to teach drivers about driving safely and following the rules of the road. Just knowing that much already makes it easier for one to avoid an accident. In addition, informing people about the possible scenarios that can cause an accident, such as weather conditions, recklessness, or mentally impairing substances, allows drivers to be more cautious and aware while driving.

The first step, of course, comes with a quality driver’s education. However, a large part of the responsibility for avoiding deaths related to driving sits on the driver. Someone who is planning to drive should avoid alcohol or drugs, be awake and alert enough to make fast and responsible decisions, and have a clear head as to not take out frustrations on other drivers. It is also the responsibility of others to make sure that their friend or family member who is driving meets the criteria previously listed in order to keep them safe.

I have been in a very minor car accident and have witnessed my friends and family driving irresponsibly. The minor accident I was in was caused by someone who wasn’t alert. I was at a roundabout, waiting for my turn to go and the car behind me did not slow down fast enough, resulting in a collision. Some of my friends and family are either overly confident drivers, or easily distracted drivers. Both result in swerving, weaving in and out of traffic, sudden braking, and many close calls.

The main thing I can do to become a better driver is to practice in order to maintain good driving habits. To help others be safer on the road is to make sure they don’t pick up their phones or have something distracting, act as a second pair of eyes to watch for potential danger, and to call out dangerous behavior. Finding bad habits and turning them into good habits is a good way to keep everyone safe.