In
the Driver’s Seat


Drivers Ed is one of the
most important classes you could take! It can really save your life
because of all the important things you learn on driving safely. I
recently finished Drivers Ed and I have learned the effects that
reckless driving can have on you and other people. Driver’s
Education can definitely impact the choices you make when behind the
wheel. The class teaches you what not to do when behind the wheel,
and shows you what could happen if you make bad decisions. This is
the reason why Drivers ed reduces the number of deaths
because the class shows you the reality of what bad things could
happen when you are driving and how you can reduce or avoid these
risks.

In Drivers ed I
learned an important method called the IPDE method. The I stands for
identify, the P for predict, D for decide, and E for execute. This
method is important to keep in mind. For example, if you are driving
down the highway and you identify a reckless driver up ahead, you
will predict what this reckless driver could do while on the highway
such as, hit another car or drive into your lane and hit your
vehicle. You will than decide what you are going to do to keep
yourself and others that may be in the car with you, safe. The last
step in this method is to execute your plan. This method may sound
simple, but it could really reduce the number of deaths on the road.

As a passenger you can help
keep the driver safe by teaching them about the risks on the road and
how to reduce or avoid them. If you are in a car with a driver that
is on their phone you can kindly ask them to get off, as you don’t
feel comfortable with them texting and driving or whatever else they
may be doing on their phone. If you are ever in a situation where
your designated driver is intoxicated, don’t let them get behind
the wheel! You can offer to drive them home or call someone else to
come and pick them up to make sure that they get home safely and that
others driving on the road will be safe because intoxicated drivers
can affect other people on the road! An important step or rule for
new drivers to follow is to wait six months before driving friends.
New drivers are not ready for the responsibility of having their
friends in the car, they are a big distraction.

In conclusion, everyone should
know that driving is a privilege and not a right. Many people get
into car crashes every year, thankfully I have not experienced one
and I hope I will never have to. I have however been in a car with
people who text and drive. Always be a responsible driver and stay
safe on the roads.