Drivers ed

Drivers ed

Drivers ed is more than teaching someone how to get behind the wheel of the car and shift the gear to drive. Drivers Ed teaches people the rules of the road, how to solve conflicts that occur while driving, and most importantly, different techniques to being a safe driver. The sad reality is that every year thousands of people die due to a car crash. People develop bad habits such as talking on the phone, tailgating, and driving under the influence. Drivers Ed prevents these situations because it teaches us about speed control, space management, and the dangers of driving distracted.

Although Drivers Ed contributes to the reduction of deaths related to driving, it is not enough. As people get older, they break rules and forget information learned in Drivers Ed. When a person renews their license, they should have to retake the knowledge test reinforcing what was learned, leading to a safer road system. People understand what is permitted, resulting in the reduction of deaths related to driving. In addition to remembering the rules, they need to be strictly enforced. The police cannot be lenient with people because the risks of deaths related to driving increases. Drivers need to receive a ticket for everything; tailgating, speeding, smoking, weaving through traffic, etc. Also, the ticket price needs to be high because people are unlikely to repeat the action the higher the price.

I have experienced car accidents caused by people’s lack of attention. A memorable one was the time my family was returning home from a hotel. We were close to our house and waiting at a red light when this truck slammed into us. Our car was totaled, and we had to visit the emergency room. From that accident, my mom developed back problems. I understand the importance of being alert and not being distracted, because your mistake can cause someone a lifetime of pain.

As a driver, I can be better and safer by controlling my spacing and speed. I need to make sure I have a good amount of space in the front and back of me. If I had to stop, I would be able to with a low chance of a collision. Understanding speed control prevents me from charging a “closed zone;” a blockage on the road preventing me from having a smooth path of travel. Knowing whether to increase or decrease speed allows me to create open space and reduces my risk of crashing. I can help other drivers by reminding them to follow the rules of the road and helping them practice driving skills they want to improve on.

Driving is not a right, but a privilege. We must all do what we can to ensure that our roads are safe for ourselves and for others.