D.R.I.V.E. S.A.F.E.

D.R.I.V.E
S.A.F.E

Devin
Vollono

My parents knew
the best start for me as a driver was to take formal drivers ed
through a local school. I do agree this was the best way for me to
be prepared as a new driver. Not only was I equipped as a driver but
now as a focused passenger. I’m more aware of traffic situations
now that I drive. I’ve learned that all occupants of a car need
to do their part in making sure they get to their destination safely.
And to do this, all individuals in a car need to be proactive by not
only avoiding distracting the driver but being their additional eyes.

I do believe that
mandatory refresher courses on how to be a defensive driver should
have to be taken prior to renewing a license. Not only will this
reduce fatal accidents but will prevent unsafe drivers from getting
on the road. I know that CT AAA gives Seniors discounts on car
insurance if they take a defensive driving class. Why wouldn’t
this be true for ALL drivers. This doesn’t make sense to me.

I’ve put
together a list of important tips on how to D.R.I.V.E
S.A.F.E:

1. Defensive
   driving is a must to avoid fatal accidents. Being aware of any
   movement around your car is critical; keeping a good distance
   between you and the car in front of you is a start.

2. Reaching
   for objects from the driver’s seat while driving will increase
   your chances of causing an accident. Getting needed items prior to
   driving will help avoid accidents.

3. Installing
   Bluetooth in your car, especially older cars that most teenagers
   inherit, will help avoid drivers from grabbing cell phones. The
   easiest way is to install a Bluetooth receiver in which you pair
   your phone to the receiver and stream audio to it.

4. View
   all mirrors and blind spots before leaving a parked position and
   continue to monitor mirrors as you drive.

5. Eyes
   should constantly be moving side to side to check surroundings in
   anticipation of danger.

6. Safety
   first – seat belts are to be worn every time you drive; this
   includes your passengers. Driver needs to manage the car to make
   sure everyone is safe.

7. Attention
   needs to be directed to all side roads in case of existing cars and
   people.

8. Friends
   must avoid being a distraction to the driver; drivers need to set
   the tone and keep passengers controlled.

9. Extra
   time in getting some where will help avoid speeding and neglecting
   traffic signals.

In summary, I do
believe drivers ed prepared me as a driver. However, I do
think the videos used are outdated and they are an important tool to
gain the students attention. The instructors need to emphasize on
how to manage distracting passengers as well as how to control from
the driver’s seat. As for the future, I do believe refresher
courses would be a huge step in reducing accidents and fatalities.

Drive Safe!