In the Driver’s Seat: Driving With Care

In the Driver’s Seat

Having the privilege of being behind the wheel of a vehicle is an enormous responsibility that should not be taken lightly. Driver education is significant in diminishing the amount of deaths due to car accidents. Not only does driver education effectively prepare teens on how to operate a vehicle safely, it teaches them the rules of the road, which is necessary for every driver to learn before operating a vehicle. Teens that participate in a driver education course are less likely to be involved in fatal car accidents, receive traffic tickets for poor driving, or disobey the rules of the road. A driver that has not received proper driver education is more likely to cause harm to oneself and to others on the road.

In order to successfully reduce the amount of deaths related to driving, drivers should make an effort to anticipate the actions of others on the road, drive rested and alert, always be paying attention to their surroundings, never drive while under the influence of drugs or alcohol, and take extra care to avoid distractions, such as cellphones, while operating a vehicle. In addition, drivers should always adhere to the rules of the road. All passengers inside of a moving vehicle should also be wearing their seatbelts at all times. Drivers should be aware of the risks of driving irresponsibly before taking control of a vehicle.

In May of 2018, five teenage boys from my hometown were involved in a fatal car accident where most of them sadly lost their lives. The eighteen-year-old driver was driving recklessly and was under the influence of marijuana while he was operating the vehicle. As a result of his irresponsible driving, he crashed the car, immediately killing three of his beloved passengers. The fourth passenger, who was not pronounced dead at the scene, was brought to a nearby hospital where his life was also taken from him. The consequences of irresponsible driving are devastating. To this day, members of my community continue to live with heavy hearts due to the loss of the young, precious lives. Life is not promised, it is a gift which must be handled with care. Driving responsibly is a simple way to save lives every day.

To mitigate disastrous road situations by being a better and safer driver, drive the speed limit, constantly look both ways and check surroundings, prepare to stop with plenty of time, make sure the vehicle is safe and functions correctly, and keep control of the vehicle at all times. Furthermore, wear a seatbelt, keep two hands on the steering wheel, use the directional or hand signals to indicate plans to other drivers, get rid of distractions, and focus on the road ahead. Be aware of the weather and be prepared to turn on windshield wipers, adjust lights, or change the speed of the vehicle in certain weather conditions. Before beginning to drive, adjust the driver’s seat, mirrors, and lights, so the driver is comfortable and can see clearly.