Driver’s Education – It Saves Lives

In today’s society, becoming a licensed driver is considered a rite of passage – but it is also a privilege. A privilege, that some newer drivers may take for granted. Many are unaware of the serious risks that come along with operating a motor vehicle. As a result of this, it is imperative to make safety and education your number one priority. Operators must exhibit the maturity to be trusted on the road. A major step in becoming such a model driver is participating in driver education courses.

The data is clear, students who take driving classes are less likely to be involved in accidents, or even receive a traffic violation during their first few years of driving. Moreover, being that students from ages 16-18 have a higher fatality rate, these reductions are highly impactful and can be prevented with the proper education. Furthermore, studies have also proven that young drivers who have not completed driver education are 75 percent more likely to get a traffic ticket, 24 percent more likely to be in an accident that results in serious injury or fatality, and 16 percent more likely to get in an accident altogether. Making that split-second wrong decision – however minor it may be – can be deadly. Whether that involves a head turn that takes your eyes off the road or something as innocent as looking at yourself in the mirror – those actions can result in tragic consequences. 

 Motor vehicles are incredible pieces of machinery that provide the freedom, convenience, and comfortable transport to get from one destination to the other – but they can also be incredibly dangerous. There are simple steps that can be taken to reduce the number of deaths related to poor driving. The most important are to obey laws, be predictable, avoid distractions, drive rested, and stay away from illicit drug and alcohol consumption. Buzzed driving is a common and dangerous behavior that impairs reaction time and judgment. Distracted driving is just as hazardous. Before you start driving, you should make sure your phone is off, that your makeup, hair and clothes are fixed to your liking, and that all food and drinks are properly and safely stored away. In addition to this, people tend to forget that speed limits exist for a reason. Driving at a higher speed than intended puts not only yourself but others around you at risk. The faster you go, the less reaction time you have to avoid an accident. People who are careful and responsible should have the opportunity to drive. But those who look to abuse it, should not. More than 38,000 deaths have occurred from irresponsible driving on U.S. roadways. Car crashes are the leading cause of death in this country, which is terrifying for new learners. Therefore, it cannot be stressed enough how important it is to take the time and dedication of learning the responsible way to drive. 

Around my small town, there have been quite a few accidents related to driving irresponsibly. Some involved drinking and driving, while others involved not obeying the posted speed limits. Not only did it cause extensive damage to real and motor vehicle property, but sadly, some people did lose their lives. Their actions have taught me to be mature behind the wheel while always remembering to expect the unexpected. It is an important part of the learning process to have the ability to recognize dangerous actions, while also taking the steps to avoid them. I have been lucky enough to not have the personal experience of being in a car accident and hopefully, with the help of driver’s education, I never will. 

There is no refuting the evidence; drivers who are looking to better protect themselves, their passengers, and others on the road – must be willing to participate in driver education. It is an essential part of becoming a first-time driver. For myself, I am really looking forward to that opportunity. I want to make sure I develop safe driving habits while also being in proper control of my vehicle. As a prospective student, I will not only learn how vital it is to be a defensive driver, but I can also convey best practices to those with whom I am a passenger.

So, in closing, I will leave you with these final considerations – stay focused and stay alert, maintain total control, keep below the speed limit, and preserve the proper following distance. These helpful reflections will ensure that the road is a better and safer place for all of us.