My name
is Yulan Hibbert. I am a 17-year-old senior and driver’s license
holder. In the 10th grade, I started the process of getting my
driver’s license. I had to take drivers ed and I then
spent 2 years practicing driving with my permit. My mom emphasized
that 2 years was the minimum driving time before I could get my
license. At first, I was appalled. However, now that I am on the
other side of it I can see there was a method to her madness. I can
say that taking the time driving and learning how to control the car
overall made me a better and safer driver. The first time I drove I
was jumpy and was not fully alert of my surroundings, but as time
passed I became an alert, defensive, and responsible driver. Seeing
my growth, I learned to be confident and feel comfortable on the
road. I am able to react quickly to potential problems. In early
January, I had gone to the DMV to get my license. My driving
evaluator stated that I was one of the best drivers she has assessed
for my age group. When I drive with my friends, I can tell who
actually practiced safe driving and who didn’t.


Being
fully alert on the road and learning how to quickly respond to avoid
a potential accident can help reduce the number of deaths by driving.
A few years ago my mom was in a minor car accident where another
driver was being reckless. Luckily my mom was a defensive driver and
knew how to quickly respond, to avoid any serious accident and no one
got hurt. Steps people can take to become a better and safer driver
are to practice with someone you trust and know is a good driver. The
longer a person practices driving safely with an instructor
correcting their mistakes, even the little ones, they become more
inclined to continue responsible driving when by themselves or with
others. It is better to be the person who prevents accidents than the
ones who causes them.