The Importance of Precaution

Anika Reddy

November 25, 2020

Driver Education Essay

The Importance of Precaution

Since getting my license, my white hand-me-down Honda Civic has been my prized possession. It was a vehicle made for ice cream runs and singing along to music. However, I can still recall the events of last November’s accident in vivid detail: ice cream from the cupholder splattered across the dashboard, my head jerking forward and back upon impact and hitting the seat, all while the radio played softly in the background. Although my eyes and focus were stuck to the slippery road, it seemed impossible to have braked in time for the car turning swiftly in front of me. No one was hurt, thankfully, but the fear of getting back behind the wheel was terrifying.

The summer before, I took thorough driver education classes and scheduled routine drives with an instructor. For many teens, this is an important part of the process, teaching us to drive carefully, knowledgeably, and defensively. From learning the rules of the road to understanding basic mechanics of a car to skills like uphill and downhill parking, a driver’s education course is an important precursor to having confidence behind the wheel. In class, you’re taught to drive at a safe distance from other cars, to drive at a safe speed, and to always be aware of your surroundings; These are skills that save lives as an estimated 400,000 people were killed in injuries regarding distracted driving in 2018, according to the CDC. These numbers are outrageously high, but there are steps and precautions to avoid these dangerous situations.

For passengers, always wear your seatbelt and never distract the driver, no matter how important your message may be. For the driver, the same rules and more apply. Wear your seatbelt and never glance at your phone, even if it’s a text from someone important. Drive carefully, slow, and attentively, checking all your mirrors and blindspots while doing so. Follow every road sign, they’re there for a reason. But acknowledge that even when you are doing everything right, expect the unexpected. Driving defensively can help avoid danger entirely. Watch the cars around you carefully because their actions are just as important as yours. Keep a safe following distance from others. Stay in your lane. Always watch for brake lights. Most importantly, be alert. When you’re behind the wheel, it’s not just your life on the line, it’s your passenger’s lives and everyone else’s on the road too. Be safe for yourself and others.