Name: Allison Chan
From: San Ramon, California
Votes: 0
Perfecting Second Nature
Perfecting Second Nature
It’s common to say that driving becomes second nature. This is true when paying attention to how confident a person is while they are driving. But even if driving comes easy for someone, they might not have the necessary safety skills for operating a car. Driver education ensures that future drivers know what to do in any circumstance while on the road, even if they don’t think they will ever experience such a scenario.
A solid education teaches student drivers the basic skills they need to avoid danger, follow driving laws, and remain cautious the entire drive. It is with this basic foundation of knowledge that they can practice being aware of their surroundings, speed, and position on the road all at once. Paying too much attention to only one of these things or being distracted by another factor puts the driver in danger. Without the necessary education, building good driving habits becomes more difficult.
Even on a road with no people around, remaining aware of everything surrounding the car strengthens safe driving habits. There may be no need for a turn signal when no one can see it, but it confirms the driver’s actions with the driver themself. It is helpful to remember that a person or animal could suddenly show up, and it is up to the driver to prevent themselves from heading towards it.
The closest I’ve been to a car accident was when I was being driven home by my friend’s sister. On every road, we were going significantly over the speed limit, and with every turn, my friends and I had to hold on to each other and the doors of the car. The music was blaring out every window, and it was hard for me to hear whether we were being honked or yelled at.
I’ve taken extra caution to stay within the speed limit every time I drive, even if there’s no other vehicle in sight. If I’m in a rush, I will try my best to go as fast as I can without overstepping the limit. I have to remember that I would rather show up to an event safely and calmly, as opposed to recklessly and nervously. By continuing to practice safe driving regardless of whether others are present, I can perfect my skills and make driving my second nature in the most ideal way possible. I can encourage my friends to leave their homes on time when going to an event to account for any traffic or danger. If they are running late, I can reassure them that there is no rush. Safe driving is a staple to have, and it ensures the safety of others outside of the car as well, not just the driver and the passengers.