In the Driver’s Seat: Samantha McNealy

In the Driver’s Seat

Samantha McNealy

We all know the feeling of turning fifteen. We finally have a chance to get behind the wheel. The permit test seemed easy enough to pass, so you didn’t study. You go to the DMV, sit down, and fail the test. You think How? Then you realize you have never taken a structured course on the safety of driving. With the growing trend of schools defunding Driver’s ED classes, students are not learning the safety of the road. This in turn is increasing the number of preventable car accidents and deaths. Driver’s ED is important because it teaches students the knowledge of driving safely on the road. Using blinkers, driving the speed limit, and using rear view mirrors are some simple actions that can be taught. Instructors also teach students about the importance of road signs. This allows a student to have all the knowledge that can allow them to make smart and safe decisions while on the road.

Many steps can be taken to reduce the number of car accident deaths, beginning with having a strong knowledge of the rules of the road. Make sure a person is comfortable with the vehicle and the road on which they are driving. Teaching a person what to do in different types of weather conditions, like slowing down in the rain and not driving in the snow or ice. Teaching a person to avoid being on their phone and to avoid anything that can cause them distractions. Never think that being on time means breaking a couple of driving rules; arrive alive. These simple reminders can help keep drivers and others safe on the road.

Most people don’t think about the dangers of driving in a parking lot. With cars constantly pulling in and out and people wandering all around, the chances of an accident are high. I had the experience of having one such driver who did not apply the rules of driving. She was not aware of her surroundings and neglected her mirrors and blind spots. She crashed right into my parked car which had both me and my younger brother. Luckily, no one was hurt. If she had taken one more second to look left and right and to check her blind spots, the accident would not have occurred. It is always important to be aware of your surroundings.

The number one thing that a person can do to be a safer driver is to be a predictable driver. Use your blinkers, keep a safe distance from other vehicles, and err on the side of caution with other drivers. You can never assume that everyone is a safe driver. Making sure you are in a fit state to drive is also important. If you are intoxicated or are too tired to drive, call a parent or friend. No one will ever get mad if you need them. Being a safe driver is more than knowing what to do, it also means applying this knowledge to everything you do while driving.