Drivers ed Initiative Award

Erica Holland

Drivers ed Initiative Award

Learning how to drive is an important milestone in a young adult’s life. However, in the U.S. alone, at least 38,800 people were killed in motor vehicle collisions in 2019. In 2015, I was in a car accident with my parents. Although all the parties involved were not severely injured and recovered from the accident, I will never forget that day. My life had flashed before my eyes and in that day, I learned that driving is a privilege, not a right. I also learned that driving is a major commitment and responsibility and I pledged that I would take all the precautions before I start driving. The next year, I enrolled in drivers ed at my high school to learn about the state traffic laws, as well as how the car operates. Drivers ed helped me to become a better driver due to the one-on-one attention I received from an expert and peer interaction. According to research conducted by the University of Nebraska, 11.1 percent of the students in drivers ed were involved in a car crash, compared to 12.9 percent of those students who did not take drivers ed. In addition, only 10.4 percent of students who took drivers ed were ticketed for moving traffic violations, compared to 18.3 percent of those students who did not take drivers ed.

Drivers ed is very helpful for new, young drivers; however, it is not the only method that ensures safe driving. One method is to make sure that you are cognitively conscious when you are driving. This includes putting away your cell phone, making sure you are not under the influence of any alcohol or drugs, and to eliminate any other distractions. In 2016, 28 percent of fatalities were due to accidents involving driving under the influence or drunk driving. In addition, it is important to point out the faults of others driving. If your friend or family member is being irresponsible while driving, inform them that both of your lives are in danger if they are being distracted. During the uncertain times, I have learned the value of community and that we all should do more to ensure the safety of ourselves and of our fellow neighbor.