With Great Power, Comes Great Responsibility

Like any sport you play or project you start, the most important
aspect is the mental game. This is crucial for responsible driving
and should be the first thing a young driver learns. This should
include showing the student that, “With great power come great
responsibility.” Driving is a privilege and as such it should be
highly valued. It is an art that you must practice everyday for the
rest of your life. Once the student has this mindset, the student
will now be ready to study and understand the driving laws and
regulations.

Additional laws and regulations could help reduce the number of
deaths due to driving. A proper educational system on learning to
drive could also greatly reduce the number of deaths. However, these
may or may not work because there are always those that are apathetic
towards such safety precautions. I believe alternative modes of
transportation would reduce the number of deaths due to driving. If
an alternative, safer mode of transportation was offered, many would
choose to travel via that transportation system. This would reduce
the number of drivers on roads and would reduce the number of
accidents and fatalities due to those accidents.

I have never been in a car accident and have been blessed with great
model drivers. However, once my brother was in an accident. My
brother was making a left turn when a car came speeding from the lane
my brother was crossing and hit the right rear side of my brother’s
car. My brother is one of the most exemplary drivers I know which
made it very surprising to hear what happened. It was not my
brother’s fault as the other driver happened to be speeding and
texting while driving; yet, my brother was blamed. It taught me that
even though you are a safe driver and follow the laws, you must be
mindful of those around you and cannot assume they are also following
the laws. As my grandpa has continuously reminded me, the best
offense is the best defense.

Before I start driving, I remind myself that life is a privilege and
driving is too. Being a teenager, I know that I have tendencies to
drive faster or take more risks. Therefore, when I come across a
situation when driving when I could take the risk or play it safe, I
always play it safe. Practicing that repeatedly has developed a habit
in which I always choose the safe option even if I am running late. I
firmly believe that the mind is your greatest ally or your worst
enemy. The proper development of a driver’s mindset when on the
road will prevent deaths on the road. The best way I can help others
stay safe on the road is by staying safe myself and setting an
example for the younger generation. I was blessed with great role
models which turned me into a safe and confident driver. I hope to do
the same to the younger generation.