A Driver’s Responsibility

The
first thing I was told when I got behind the wheel of a car was that
I could kill people. I was in control of something that could ruin
lives. This is an important part of educating a new driver in my
opinion. Being aware of the fact that not following the rules and
guidelines from drivers ed classes, parents and guardians,
etc. can result in something that can’t be taken back could help
drivers develop the caution and focus necessary when driving.

While
I was in high school there was a group that came in to show us how we
were not experienced enough drivers to do too much else but look at
the road. They had some “games” that simulated driving around a
town similar to our own. While we were driving we had to look down
and text and turn around and talk and other things a distracted young
driver would be doing. Almost everybody crashed horribly in the
simulation. This was a very eye opening exercise I think should be a
part of a new drivers ed because it shows you just how much
you need to be paying attention to while you’re driving and adding
extra to that is only making it harder and more dangerous for
yourself and everyone around you.

I’ve
never been in a car accident myself, but I’ve witnessed some very
bad ones. There was a crash at an intersection very close to my home
caused by someone not paying attention and running through a red
light. There were multiple deaths in that accident. An old classmate
of mine is currently going through a trial because they ran a red
light and killed somebody. These incidents should act as a reminder
to us all how fast things can happen. Being a safe and vigilant
driver at all times prevents catastrophe.

Steps I can put in place for myself are remembering what the outcome
of being reckless can be, and how that will affect my plans for the
future. I think it’s important for myself and others to stop
thinking in the moment so much and just spend a little time
considering how far a choice we make can go. Thinking about how I
would feel if I got a call about my loved ones being involved in a
crash encourages me to follow the rules and prevent somebody from
having to hear that.