The Importance of Thoughtful Driving

Madelynn
Bowers

2020
Drivers Ed Online Essay Contest

March
31, 2020

Driver
education is the single, most-effective method in reducing the number
of deaths as a result of driving. Vehicles are powerful, hurtling,
masses of metal and rubber that must be consistently driven with
thoughtfulness, awareness and legality. Safe drivers know and
understand the state and federal laws of their roads and approach
driving as a venture into the unknown. To adhere to driving laws, a
safe driver prepares to travel by attuning their eyes and ears to the
road conditions, fastening their seatbelt and securely gripping the
steering wheel. It is also the responsibility of the driver to ensure
that all passengers are appropriately buckled before beginning the
journey. Should visibility be reduced, or darkness have settled on
the road, the vehicle’s headlights are used by the driver.

Road-related
incidents and deaths as a result of driving are scary to consider and
somber to investigate; safe and legalistic driving are essential in
reducing these accidents. Stay focused, present and aware of the
magnitude of the action being performed while driving. Every driver
carries the responsibility of their vehicular movement and any
externalities resulting from that decision. Vigilance, “defensive
driving”, and following traffic laws keep our communities safe and
lower the possibility of these incidents occurring.

Educate
your family members and friends on the importance of conscientious
driving and the power they hold as drivers. Watching a friend or
family member engage in texting or multitasking while driving is
often nerve-wracking and tense, and distracted driving is often
illegal driving. While it may be uncomfortable to address, sharing
information on the danger of distracted driving is vital.
Driving-related death prevention is the responsibility of every
individual who relies on the American transportation system.
Pedestrians, passengers, cyclists and commercial-vehicle drivers,
too, must adhere to clear-minded and safe road use.