2024 Driver Education Round 3
Driver Education Initiative Award – Annual Scholarship Opportunity
Grace A Ojo
Hockley, TX
When people learn to drive, they are taught important rules to keep everyone safe. These rules help drivers know what to do so they don’t hurt anyone. For example, drivers learn to stop at red lights, go the right speed, and always wear a seatbelt. These rules are there to protect drivers, passengers, and everyone around them. If drivers don't follow these rules, bad things can happen, like accidents. If we all follow these rules, we can help make the roads safer for everyone.
There are many ways to stop accidents and keep people safe. One of the most important things is to always drive the right speed. If you drive too fast, it can be hard to stop in time. If you drive too slow, other people might get frustrated. It’s important to drive at a safe and steady speed. Another important rule is to stop at red lights. Red lights tell us when it is not safe to go, so we must stop and wait until it’s clear. If everyone follows these rules, accidents are much less likely to happen.
Another important safety rule is to always wear your seatbelt. Seatbelts help keep you safe in the car. They hold you in your seat, so you don't get hurt if something goes wrong. It is also very important to never drive if you are tired, sick, or under the influence of drugs or alcohol. If you are feeling unwell, you should rest and not drive. Driving when you are tired or when you’re on drugs can make it harder to focus, and that can lead to accidents.
Now, I want to share a personal experience to show just how dangerous it can be to drive under the influence of drugs or even something that seems harmless like CBD gummies. One day, I had worked 14 hours straight and was feeling very tired. I stopped by a CBD store to buy some CBD gummies to help me relax and fall asleep when I got home. I took two gummies while I was driving, hoping they would start working in my system so that I could sleep well as soon as I got home. But instead of helping me feel relaxed, the gummies made me feel strange. I started seeing things that weren’t really there. My steering wheel began to go left and right, and I couldn’t control the car. No matter how hard I tried, I couldn’t stop the car from swerving. Before I knew it, I crashed into another car.
The next thing I remember is waking up in a hospital bed with scars and bandages all over me. I had been in a very serious accident, and it was all because I wasn’t fully aware of the risks of taking something that affected my ability to drive safely. I learned the hard way that even things that seem like they’re meant to help you, like CBD gummies, can be dangerous if used while driving. Now I know that it’s never okay to drive if you are not fully in control of your mind and body.
This experience has taught me a lot about the importance of staying focused and alert when driving. It’s not enough to just follow the road signs and rules; you also have to make sure you are in a good state of mind. Before you drive, you should make sure you are awake, feeling well, and not under the influence of anything that could distract you or slow down your reactions. For example, if you are sleepy, sick, or have taken any drugs—whether it’s CBD, medication, or alcohol—it’s best to rest and not drive.
To make sure you are ready to drive safely, it’s also important to check your car. Before you start your journey, make sure your car is in good condition. Check that the tires have enough air, the lights are working, and the car is ready for the road. Also, make sure you have your driver’s license and any important papers with you. These little things can make a big difference in keeping you and others safe.
We can also help others be better drivers by setting a good example. If you drive safely, others will notice and might learn from you. You can tell your friends and family to always wear their seatbelt, not use their phones while driving, and never drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol. If you see someone driving too fast or doing something unsafe, you can talk to them calmly and remind them to be careful. You can also help by spreading awareness about the dangers of driving while under the influence, like I learned the hard way.
If you ever see someone who is driving in an unsafe way, don’t be afraid to speak up. You can help them understand why it’s so important to stay safe on the road. You can also join safety programs in your town that teach people how to drive carefully and avoid accidents. The more people who understand how to drive safely, the fewer accidents there will be.
To be a better driver, always follow the rules. Wear your seatbelt, stop at red lights, and drive at a safe speed. Make sure your car is ready for the road, and don’t drive if you are tired or not feeling well. It’s also important to avoid any distractions, like your phone, and never drive if you are under the influence of anything that can affect your ability to drive.
Driving safely is important for everyone. By making good choices before you get behind the wheel, you can keep yourself and others safe. You can also help your friends and family be safe by talking about the dangers of drugs, alcohol, and driving. If everyone follows the rules and drives carefully, we can all stay safe on the road. So, always remember to be careful, make good choices, and never drive if you are not fully in control. Your safety and the safety of others depend on it.
Content Disclaimer:
Essays are contributed by users and represent their individual perspectives, not those of this website.