Never Forgotten

Friday, August 17, 2018, is a day I will never forget. I was so excited and proud of myself to pass my road test the very first time I took it. Leading up to my road test my parents had discussed with me that passing was not going to be an instant free pass to go where I wanted and when. We discussed that I needed more experience in different driving conditions. Then, later that same night, a close friend of mine was killed in a reckless accident. It was just after 10:00 PM, it was dark, the roads were wet, he was driving way too fast, took the turn wrong and skidded right into a tree, flipped over, and was ejected from his vehicle. He passed away shortly after. It shook our class and community to the core. This bright, happy, smart, athletic, responsible 16-year-old boy was taken way too soon. My father, while consoling me, asked if I now understood where he and my mother had been coming from. That scenario is the worst nightmare for any parent.

Based on my personal experience, I can clearly express the direct relation of speeding and poor driving conditions such as wet roads and dark of night on accident related deaths. Limiting driving under poor conditions and following speed restrictions, especially in poor weather, can greatly reduce the number of driving related deaths. Also, I think it goes without saying that distracted driving is one of the largest factors in driver related deaths, especially in young and inexperienced drivers. The abundance of handheld electronics and modern automobile computer capabilities are a big source of distraction for young drivers.

In my opinion, Drivers ed is the first opportunity for a young driver to learn the nuances of driving, most importantly defensive driving, without the stress of having to learn from your parents! Though both my parents were able to help me learn, I honestly believe having a trained teacher show me the ins and outs of a vehicle, the road, traffic and driving techniques, will stick with me longer. I also have noticed through my drivers ed that in fact both of my parents have forgotten some of the rules, best practices and safety tips. Now it is my turn to teach them!

The number one thing is to continue to remember the training and education I received in drivers ed and continue learning from every experience I have on the road – big and small as well as good and bad. Each experience teaches me something about myself as well as other drivers’ tendencies and poor habits. Always expect the unexpected. Also, to repeat from above, I will limit my need to drive in poor weather and other poor driving conditions. I will not drive distracted and I will obey speed restrictions.

I will always remember that day and my friend when I get in my car to drive. He will never be forgotten.