In the Driver’s Seat

Most teenagers like to believe they are invincible. Every teen has thought this atleast once: “I can’t wait to get my driver’s licence so I can go wherever I want.” Yes, having a driver’s licence is very convenient, but most teens do not think about the consequences that can happen if they start to drive recklessly. It is proven that teenagers who go through a Driver’s Education class are much safer on the road than teenagers who have not taken any type of driving course. Teens who take a driving course perform better on driving exams that teach them the laws, valuable road skills, and overall more knowledge than their peers. Driver’s Education programs also teach teens to anticipate actions of other drivers on the road. That helps them position themselves better on interstates, look at all three mirrors, and know what to do under dangerous circumstances. It not only protects themselves, but protects the lives of other drivers on the road. Those teens are also more likely to retain that information throughout their lives and be set for success.

A person can take multiple steps to become a better and safer driver while also reducing the number of deaths on the road. Steps that can be taken are to: avoid distractions, follow the speed limits, read the road signs carefully, check your mirrors frequently, avoid driving under the influence, always keep your attention on the road, consider the weather, be aware of other drivers, and most importantly, wear your seatbelt! Don’t allow peer pressure to cause you to speed. Accelerated speeds decrease the ability to control the outcome. If you get a text message and you feel like you have to answer it at that moment, pull over to the side of the road and come to a complete stop. If you can, avoid your phone; that’s even better. By following these rules, you can become a better driver and help others be more safe, and you can potentially save another person’s life.

These are steps I personally take myself. I know two students who have recently passed away due to car accidents because they were not wearing a seatbelt and driving at a fast speed. I have also experienced a car accident myself. I was in a car with multiple family members. It was a snowy night, and there was black ice everywhere. The car flipped in the air and landed on its side. My grandmother that night broke her neck plus eleven ribs, while one of my cousin’s cheeks was severely injured due to the shattered window he was lying on. My brother was hanging upside down from his carseat. Fortunately, there were no casualties. After that night, I realized the importance of a seatbelt and decided to take a Driver’s Education course in the future. What I have learned through my experience, I put it into practice on the road and drive safely to not only protect myself, but to protect others.