Drivers Ed 2026

   Driving is a privilege that comes with a great deal of responsibility. Every time someone gets

behind the wheel, they are responsible not only for their own safety but also for the safety of

everyone else on the road. Driver education is one of the most important ways to reduce the

number of injuries and deaths caused by car accidents because it teaches young drivers the

knowledge, skills, and good judgment they need to make safe decisions.

I understand the importance of driver education because I attended driving school before

receiving my driver's license at the age of 16. During driving school, I learned the rules of the

road, defensive driving techniques, and how to react in different driving situations. The program

helped me become a more confident and responsible driver. Since receiving my license, I have

had my own car and have maintained a good driving record. I have also worked hard to

maintain good grades throughout high school because I know that being a good student can

help lower my car insurance costs through student discounts. Both my education and my driving

record have taught me that responsibility and good decision making can have future benefits.

Although I have only been involved in one minor car accident, where another vehicle knocked

off my side mirror, the experience reminded me that accidents can happen unexpectedly. It was

a hit and run and left me financially responsible and angry at the situation. Fortunately, no one

was seriously hurt, but it taught me to be even more aware of my surroundings and to always

expect the unexpected while driving. That experience reinforced the importance of staying

focused, avoiding distractions, and practicing defensive driving every time I get behind the

wheel.
  One of the biggest reasons I take driving so seriously is because of a tragedy that affected my

school community. When I was a sophomore at Parkrose High School, two students from my

school, lost their lives in a fiery car crash in February 2024. The accident happened late at night

when their vehicle was involved in a collision that flipped over and caught on fire. The news spread quickly throughout our school, and everyone was heartbroken. It hurt even more because I knew them personally. We went to elementary school together, but seeing classmates, teachers, and families grieving such a devastating loss made me realize how quickly life can change. Our principal, teachers, counselors, and Superintendent Michael Lopes Serrao provided grief counseling and support resources to help students process the tragedy.
       As a sophomore, it was one of the first times I witnessed how one accident could

impact an entire school community. Now, as a 2026 graduate of Parkrose High School, I still

think about that tragedy. It continues to remind me that every decision we make behind the

wheel has consequences and that safe driving can truly save lives.There are many steps that can be taken to reduce the number of deaths related to driving. First, every new driver should complete a driver education program that teaches both the technical skills of driving and the importance of making responsible choices. I know that is not always financially accessible to everyone. Drivers should always wear their seat belts, obey speed limits, avoid texting or using their phones while driving, never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs, and avoid driving when they are tired. Parents, schools, and communities should continue educating young people about safe driving and encourage them to speak up when they see unsafe behavior. I have also witnessed friends and family members drive irresponsibly by speeding, becoming

distracted by their phones ( especially my peers), or not paying close attention to the road.

Seeing these behaviors has shown me how easily accidents can happen. Instead of remaining

silent, I believe it is important to encourage others to slow down, put their phones away, and

make smart decisions while driving. Sometimes speaking up could prevent an accident and

even save someone's life.

As I continue driving, I plan to remain committed to being a safe and responsible driver. I will

continue following traffic laws, staying alert, driving defensively, and avoiding distractions. I also

want to set a positive example for my friends and younger drivers by showing that safe driving is

something we should practice every day, not just while learning to drive. I believe that each of us

has a responsibility to protect ourselves and others whenever we are on the road.

In conclusion, driver education has assisted me in reducing traffic accidents and saving lives.

My experience attending driving school, maintaining a good driving record, experiencing a minor

accident, and witnessing the lasting impact of losing two students from my high school has

shaped the way I think about driving. Those experiences have taught me that driving is more

than simply getting from one place to another, it is a responsibility that requires maturity, good

judgment, and respect for the lives of others. As I move forward in life, I will continue to practice

safe driving habits and encourage others to do the same, knowing that one responsible decision can make all the difference.