Not Enough Knowledge on Cars

When I think of safe driving, I think of all the courses I took in order to get my permit. It took me hours to complete the Drug and Distracted Driving course needed in my state. I learned all the necessary laws I needed to know to get my permit. The first time I ever drove a car, I felt like I needed another few hours on the training of car parts, rpm, etc. I drove at night, it was definitely a hassle to figure out where the lights were. It also took me a good minute to figure out how hard to push the brake and the accelerator. I understand I had the privilege of my father teaching me, but it definitely made me tense every time I drove. Looking back I think the guy I took my license test was nicer.

I’ve almost gotten into countless accidents, usually because I didn’t do something correctly, or someone didn’t want me to merge into their lane. I remember one night where I cried while driving because of how badly I was yelled at. I was trying to merge into the lane that exits to my house. I had to speed up because no one was letting me in, I mean, it was my dad’s idea. As I tried to merge, I didn’t go forward enough and almost was hit by this huge truck that refused to let me in. After getting yelled at, I didn’t drive for months. I was determined to drive again until I understood how to eyeball my distance better. We could decrease deaths due to driving by simply requiring more hours. I understand it varies by state, but my 50 hours merely weren’t enough. I needed more to feel comfortable driving without my dad’s passenger seat driving.

I understand my father tried his best to teach me, but I always felt like I was doing something wrong. I was either too relaxed or too tense. I’ve definitely seen cases of someone driving home and not making it alive. It breaks my heart because not only is it easy to drive distracted, it takes an innocent life. I’m not saying all drivers are distracted and unattentive, but more drivers should make it their priority. Many crashes happen by simply looking away for a second or two. I was in a crash due to my mom looking away for one second. As she turned slightly to look at my grandma, the car in front violently hit their brakes, causing my mom to crash into them. Only the bumper came off and no one was hurt. I barely remember it because I was 12, but I can tell that my mom always makes sure to be a more attentive driver.

I’m a well-seasoned driver now as I write this. I’ve had my license for a few months and make sure to make it my priority to feel comfortable before I leave the driveway. Although I fear that I’ll be in a crash, I work through it while still staying safe. I hope I get to have the privilege of teaching my younger sister to drive because she needs some insider tips and doesn’t deserve to cry on the road. More young teens simply getting their learners permit need more than an online course and test with 50 driving hours. It’s so easy to cheat these days, and these are things that shouldn’t be cheated on. I think we as elders, give the younger ones the advice we always wanted to hear and be the shoulder they need. Sometimes even being blunt with our driving advice and feedback can help them improve.