Every time we get behind the wheel, we hold not only our lives but the lives of others in our hands. As we become more comfortable with driving, we often normalize certain actions that can lessen our worry and caution. However it is necessary to never forget the real and potential dangers of driving, no matter how skilled or well-adjusted we become. It is quite easy to adopt the mindset ‘it won’t happen to me’ until it’s too late. I’m sure we all have at least one experience that can relate in some way, and I can definitely relate which I will share more about later.
I started drivers education classes a little before I turned 15, then moved on to get my permit shortly after. Before we could get our permits, we had to complete 6 hours of driving with the instructor. As time went by, I was finally able to take my driver’s test. I failed the first one because I didn’t fully understand the flashing arrow. With more practice, the second test was much easier. Even though I didn’t pass the first time, the classes were absolutely necessary and taught me a lot. New drivers especially need the knowledge and skills to be on the road to help prevent driving- related deaths. Well-educated drivers, unsurprisingly, are more likely to make safer decisions.
One of the easiest and most important things to do is wear your seatbelt. If it can save your life in the extreme case of a fatal accident, than following that law should bring no doubt. Staying up-to-date with any new traffic laws and regulations should also be done without hesitation. Newer vehicles have more advanced technologies. Two important ones are automatic emergency breaking and lane assist. Those alone can dramatically save lives. We should all work toward obtaining vehicles with those features. Even actions as simple as getting enough sleep and getting regular car inspections should be done. I’ve heard many stories from friends and family about falling asleep while driving. I always tell my loved ones to drive safe before heading out because sometimes, people just need that little reminder.
There should be stricter laws against distracted or impaired driving. Also improving our infrastructure with better lighting and signage is another key factor in reducing driving-related deaths. In Michigan, you can get your license by just being 18 and passing a written driving test and hands-on driving test. In my opinion, that is not enough. All new drivers should be required to take a driving class regardless of age. Experience and knowledge are the biggest factors in safe driving. Promoting public awareness campaigns would be a great start to saving so many lives!
My first winter with my license, I was gifted a 1997 GMC Sonoma. I was so excited and ready to start driving myself to school. My confidence in having a four-wheel-drive vehicle was quite high, so I thought I would never crash or lose control. My first day driving home after school, I took a side road to have a little extra time in my truck. As I pull up to the stop sing to get back on the county road, I saw my friend driving past. I pulled out and quickly sped up to about 40-45mph. Around the next sharp corner, I hit a slick, icy spot. The next thing I knew, I had no control of the vehicle. I took my foot off the gas and proceeded to correct the truck. As I was sliding down the opposite side of the road, I see a car coming toward me, getting closer with every passing second. I turn my wheel to the right as fast as I can and the next thing I remember is me laying sideways in my truck from hitting a tree. It all happened so quickly.
That experience taught me a lot about the realities of driving in winter conditions. It is crucial to always be cautious and aware of your surroundings. It’s easy to feel confident, but you are never immune to the hazards that come while being on the road. My crash taught me the importance of taking extra precautions like driving at safe speeds, being aware of road conditions, and always being prepared for the unexpected. By sharing that story, I hope to remind others of the importance of respecting the power and unpredictability of both nature and people. This lesson has me a more cautious and responsible driver, and I always emphasize the importance of safety to all that I can.
I started drivers education classes a little before I turned 15, then moved on to get my permit shortly after. Before we could get our permits, we had to complete 6 hours of driving with the instructor. As time went by, I was finally able to take my driver’s test. I failed the first one because I didn’t fully understand the flashing arrow. With more practice, the second test was much easier. Even though I didn’t pass the first time, the classes were absolutely necessary and taught me a lot. New drivers especially need the knowledge and skills to be on the road to help prevent driving- related deaths. Well-educated drivers, unsurprisingly, are more likely to make safer decisions.
One of the easiest and most important things to do is wear your seatbelt. If it can save your life in the extreme case of a fatal accident, than following that law should bring no doubt. Staying up-to-date with any new traffic laws and regulations should also be done without hesitation. Newer vehicles have more advanced technologies. Two important ones are automatic emergency breaking and lane assist. Those alone can dramatically save lives. We should all work toward obtaining vehicles with those features. Even actions as simple as getting enough sleep and getting regular car inspections should be done. I’ve heard many stories from friends and family about falling asleep while driving. I always tell my loved ones to drive safe before heading out because sometimes, people just need that little reminder.
There should be stricter laws against distracted or impaired driving. Also improving our infrastructure with better lighting and signage is another key factor in reducing driving-related deaths. In Michigan, you can get your license by just being 18 and passing a written driving test and hands-on driving test. In my opinion, that is not enough. All new drivers should be required to take a driving class regardless of age. Experience and knowledge are the biggest factors in safe driving. Promoting public awareness campaigns would be a great start to saving so many lives!
My first winter with my license, I was gifted a 1997 GMC Sonoma. I was so excited and ready to start driving myself to school. My confidence in having a four-wheel-drive vehicle was quite high, so I thought I would never crash or lose control. My first day driving home after school, I took a side road to have a little extra time in my truck. As I pull up to the stop sing to get back on the county road, I saw my friend driving past. I pulled out and quickly sped up to about 40-45mph. Around the next sharp corner, I hit a slick, icy spot. The next thing I knew, I had no control of the vehicle. I took my foot off the gas and proceeded to correct the truck. As I was sliding down the opposite side of the road, I see a car coming toward me, getting closer with every passing second. I turn my wheel to the right as fast as I can and the next thing I remember is me laying sideways in my truck from hitting a tree. It all happened so quickly.
That experience taught me a lot about the realities of driving in winter conditions. It is crucial to always be cautious and aware of your surroundings. It’s easy to feel confident, but you are never immune to the hazards that come while being on the road. My crash taught me the importance of taking extra precautions like driving at safe speeds, being aware of road conditions, and always being prepared for the unexpected. By sharing that story, I hope to remind others of the importance of respecting the power and unpredictability of both nature and people. This lesson has me a more cautious and responsible driver, and I always emphasize the importance of safety to all that I can.
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