Driver Distractions

Driver Distractions

May 28, 2019. It was a bright and sunny morning. I jumped out of bed ready for the day ahead. I have waited for this day for years. It was the first day of my driving lessons. At first, I did not think it was necessary to take lessons. I thought, “I got this, it looks so easy.” But I grew to like the idea of taking lessons. As my instructor pulled in the driveway, I bounced into the driver’s seat with such energy and excitement. I quickly put the key in the ignition and tuned the key and then….I froze. The thought of being in control of a 2,000 pound machine made me instantly nervous. Thoughts were running through my head about traffic, stopping in time, speed control, and distracted drivers. I needed a little coaxing, but I eventually inched my way out of the driveway.

My driver’s education was invaluable. My instructor was patient, kind, and knowledgeable. I learned a lot in those six hours, and I think back to the experience frequently. Driver’s education is an important step in learning about driving. It could be a teenagers first time ever behind the wheel. I also feel that having someone other than a friend or family member made the lessons more meaningful. I listened and memorized what my instructor was teaching me. I ended up enjoying the lessons, feeling that they were productive and beneficial. I even think more than six hours could further enhance the experience. I only hope that every teen’s experience was as beneficial and successful as mine.

Driving is a privilege which people need to take seriously. When you slip into the driver’s seat, you need to be conscientious of your surroundings. People need to be courteous and aware of others around them. Your actions can have a significant impact on others. Being focused, in the moment, and diligent can help reduce the number of accidents. Weeding out distractions and focusing on the task at hand need to take priority.

Being the daughter of a police officer, I hear many stories about distracted drivers and the accidents they cause. When I was two years old, I was in a car accident with my mom and twin brother. Another driver was looking at their phone for directions when they ran a stop sign and hit the driver’s side of my mom’s car. We were all okay, thank goodness, and my mom still reminds me of that person’s actions and how they affected us that day. I do not remember this accident but it is talked about and counts as a reminder as to how driving a car is a serious action.

When I pull out of the driveway, I set my mind to the task in front of me. I put my thoughts of school, work, soccer practice, and friends aside. My thoughts are on my immediate trip. Whether I am heading to school, work, or running an errand, I set my mind to that place. My goal is to do this each time I drive. It can be hard! I wish more people would take the act of driving more seriously. Putting your cell phone in the console (or a purse) would help limit distractions. Also keeping the radio down (which I know can be hard for teenagers!) can also help reduce distractions. I remember my dad telling me that driving is a job. It is a means of getting from one place to another. While driving, that is all you need to do….just drive! Other things can wait until you arrive safely at your destination. He also tells his platoon that driving to a call is the most important thing they can do. They are no help at an accident or emergency if they get into an accident themselves!

The tips and suggestions that I have shared will hopefully make someone think about the next time they get behind the wheel. If more people would put their minds and energy into driving safely, less accidents would occur. Remember that not only are you transporting your friends and family, other drivers are as well. I will continue to keep these thoughts in the forefront of my mind and remind my friends and family too. We should hold each other accountable each time we get into a vehicle. More compassion is needed for each other and being aware of our own actions can help reduce traffic accidents. So, the next time you get behind the wheel remember that you are not the only ones on the road. Please consider other people and their families.