Drive Responsibly

Many underlook the importance of driver education and, therefore, sleep through every class. However, disregarding its education may lead to unsafe road habits and driving in general. This not only threatens your safety but also others on the road. For example, not knowing the procedures to take during hydroplaning can cause a car accident, and not knowing vehicle laws can cause a ticket.

To drive safely, one must first check for any problems with the car before driving. If there are any, such as broken brakes, windshield wipers, signals, or mirrors, immediately bring the car to get it checked out for the prevention of any accidents on the road. Additionally, make sure to put your seatbelt on and become comfortable before driving.

Having your eyes off the road for even one second may lead to major car accidents; therefore, while driving, it is important to remain focused and calm regardless of any circumstances or distractions. No calls or text messages are more important than lives, but if they must be answered, pull over to the side of the road to respond. One must be attentive on the road as other irresponsible drivers may brake suddenly, a situation in which you would have to react quickly and also brake as well. Furthermore, look ahead while driving to search for possible dangers, such as animals, pedestrians, or car stopping, to allow yourself time to slow one’s speed down and yield to them if needed. All drivers must drive accordingly to the speed limit or slower under bad weather. Being sober from alcohol and drugs for safety and legality can also save the lives of many. These are all materials that are taught in driver’s education.

Moreover, living in New Orleans, notorious for not using blinkers, I have learned the importance of using signals. Driving in the city, there have been numerous car accidents due to the ignorance of signals. Signals, such as blinkers, notifies other drivers of one’s next move, whether it be switching or merging lanes or turning onto a street. Without these signals, other drivers on the road would not be able to identify one’s next move and therefore not know when to slow down or stop, causing a crash.

Despite numerous times of almost being in a car accident myself, I have never been in one physically, but I have seen others around me drive irresponsibly. For instance, there have been several times when I have been in a car where the driver texts someone or picks up a call while driving. This takes their focus off the road, which may result in a car crash. To better the safety on the road and prevent deaths, you must be the first to change. Follow laws and know how to drive safely, which will be taught in driver’s education. Point out your friends’ and family’s mistakes on the road and educate them. Be the role model. Be the change.