Driving to Safety

Meghan Wong

August 1, 2020

Driving to Safety

Teenagers witness and experience driving making it seem as though anyone can do it. As demonstrated in the high number of driving-related deaths, this is not the case, but the implementation of a drivers ed course is vital in laying a foundation for the survival of youth drivers. This is due to its ability to teach an early-stage driver the information they should know and reinforces as well as discredits possible past knowledge. Most importantly, drivers ed courses include a “behind the wheel” portion that gives beginning drivers the opportunity to experience real driving under the watch of a certified teacher. This allows young drivers to apply the information from the classroom to a real-world situation; cementing the lessons and providing context.

Continuing this sort of thorough education for drivers at the start of the licensing process is one step that can help to reduce the number of fatal car accidents. Additionally, requiring a renewal of the driver’s license also helps to ensure that safe behavior behind the wheel is continued as they progress in their driving journey. To take it one step further, when renewing their license for the third time, a driver should complete a basic survey/test to reaffirm that they are still capable of driving safely. In general, it is the responsibility of the driver to be aware of their actions and limitations. This means understanding and acknowledging when they are unable to drive on their own whether that be due to tiredness, intoxication, or age/health. 

             As listed above, driving tired, intoxicated, or being unfit to drive are all examples of driving irresponsibly. Fortunately, I have never been in a car accident as a result of such driving behaviors, but I have witnessed some friends driving irresponsibly. Most often, my friends fall victim to either speeding or the use of their phones while driving. These irresponsible behaviors have the potential for deadly consequences, so I have the responsibility to address it. For example, if they need to make a phone call or if they need to snack on something, I will make the phone call or open the package for them. This will help to save not only the lives of those in the car with me but also the lives of those who are around us.  

             In regards to my driving, I have developed a few distracted driving habits that make me an irresponsible driver. One of my most common distracted driving habits is changing the radio station while driving. To address this unwanted habit, I will work to use the buttons on the steering wheel to adjust the volume and change the radio station. This way I eliminate reaching over to the media console and reduce the risk of unintentional turns/inattentive driving. If I am unable to cement this habit, I will simply turn the radio off and drive without any form of entertainment. In doing so, this eliminates any distractions that may arise from the radio.