Drivers ed Initiative Award: In the Driver’s Seat

Each year, more than 38,000 die due to crashes on U.S. roadways. The number of deaths caused as a result of driving can be reduced by encouraging and enforcing safer driving practices through driving school.

Drivers ed can help reduce the number of driving deaths by giving young drivers the knowledge they need to understand the rules of the road. Drivers’ Ed teaches the importance of using appropriate signals and understanding road signs, which enhances concentration and confidence, as students learn to drive a vehicle. Most importantly, it teaches teens to form good driving habits at an early age.

Some steps that can be taken to reduce the number of driving deaths are eliminating distractions and encouraging people to not drink and drive. Phones, loud music, or anything that isn’t secure can easily cause a driver’s attention. Before getting behind the wheel, put the phone away, or on do not disturb, turn down the loud music, and secure anything that you don’t want to fall or distract your attention from the road. When it comes to driving under the influence, it’s an absolute no! The best solution is to call for a ride home from a friend. Drivers Ed instructors stress this information throughout the course to impress upon drivers how important it is to follow this rule. All it takes is for ONE drunk person to get behind the wheel and instantly put their life and others lives in danger.

When I was younger, my dad would text and drive a lot. My sister and I would always tell him to put it away because at school they taught us to never text and drive. He has gotten better as the years have passed because now if he needs to send a text, he’ll have either my sister or myself text it for him. I firmly believe he changed because we kept on him about how important this rule is to obey.

I am taking steps to become a better driver by working on my weaknesses. I sometimes tense up too much when I drive, which could make me overreact in haste. Instead, I’m learning to relax behind the wheel, while still remaining focused and alert allowing me to think quickly, yet react safely. Being alert and aware of everyone else while driving is something all responsible drivers have to constantly practice. My dad would always tell me that “I have to not only drive for myself but for everyone else around me”. Practice makes perfect so work on your weaknesses and turn them into your strengths.

As you can see, Drivers Ed is a key component when it comes to being a safe driver. Doing things such as getting a good foundation through a drivers ed course, eliminating distractions, and working on your weaknesses can make all the difference. In conclusion, this is how getting a drivers ed and enforcing safer driving practices can reduce the number of deaths caused as a result of driving.