Travel Safe to Save Lives

Students
typically begin drivers ed courses in their sophomore year of
high school. This is one of the most important classes they will
complete due to its role of informing them of what it really means to
be a licenced driver; it is more than trips with friends and a sense
of freedom. In drivers ed class, students learn the laws and
rules of the road. When driving with the instructor of the class,
students learn how to operate a car. They gain experience with using
turn signals, and steering a car in reverse. That being said, one of
the most vital aspects of this course is its ability to make students
aware of the risks involved in driving a car. One small mistake could
cause an expensive and potentially deadly accident. By completing a
drivers ed course in high school, students become aware of how
to safely drive a car, lowering the chance of a car accident
resulting in death.

In
order to reduce the amount of deaths related to car accidents, more
effective laws and guidelines should be placed on operating a motor
vehicle. By enforcing stronger laws on texting while driving,
distracted driving would cause fewer accidents. More frequent traffic
stops would also aid in solving the problem. This way, drivers will
be more reluctant to operate a vehicle while under the influence of
alcohol or other substances due to an increased police presence. A
big issue for teen drivers is distracting passengers who want to play
loud music, take pictures, and encourage the driver to increase
speed. The solution? Stricter guidelines should be placed on the
amount of passengers allowed in a car with teenage drivers. If
actions are taken to prevent irresponsible driving, there will be a
smaller chance of car accidents occurring, therefore resulting in
fewer deaths.

Unfortunately,
I have witnessed my friends drive irresponsibly. I often open
Snapchat and see several videos of people I care about recording on
their phones while driving. I have been a passenger in a car when the
driver felt the need to browse social media or send a text, in which
case I asked them to continue when the car is parked. I am thankful
to have not experienced being in a car accident, and I hope to keep
it that way. Even so, I cannot help but be afraid after witnessing
the carelessness of other drivers.

Driving
safely is one of my top priorities. I always make sure that I am
aware of my surroundings while driving and use turn signals to
indicate my actions to other drivers. In order to help others stay
safe on the road, I correct them when I see them doing something
wrong or irresponsible. In addition, I also make a point to remain
calm when behind the wheel and when riding as a passenger. Through
the practice of safe driving, the road can become a secure place for
people of all ages without the risk of lives being lost.