In the Driver's Seat

Kailee Scalise

The first moments of sitting behind the wheel of a car are filled with many emotions. Freedom, accomplishment, independence, and the fear of knowing one mistake can end your life or someone else. Even though new drivers are eager to get on the road, proper instructions must be given to ensure their safety and the safety of those around them. Drivers ed is extremely important in keeping everyone in our community safe.

Being knowledgeable about the rules of the road will help to decrease the death toll of reckless driving. When I first began learning to drive, my parents registered me for driving lessons. Being with a trained instructor provided a safe environment for me to learn in and constant instruction which helped me to become more aware while driving. My instructor taught me about the consequences of unsafe driving through telling me the story of how her daughter was killed in a car accident just four years earlier. “She left that morning for school, and that was the last time I ever saw my little girl.” Her words stuck with me and I knew I could not put my parents through the struggle of losing a child from careless driving. 

I feel that so much stress is put on young drivers being “irresponsible” which is true for some, but even older drivers should review the laws and be extra careful while driving. All ages should also be smart enough not to use their phones while driving. A ban on phone usage while driving would tremendously help with reducing accidents and deaths from driving.

 I have unfortunately been in two car accidents. One where a girl was texting and didn’t realize there were three cars stopped in front of her. The passenger in that car almost died. Her friend was being irresponsible and almost killed her because she was texting and driving. In the second accident, a man was on the phone while it was raining. He hit into the side of my car, almost sending me into opposing traffic. After both of our cars stopped and we got out, he was practically unphased by the events that occurred. That upset me because I know that I value my life and the lives of others and it amazed me that someone could be so careless. 

By demonstrating safe driving habits, you can save lives. Take responsibility for your family members when it comes to telling them not to drink and drive or to follow the speed limits. There are phone apps that review road laws and countless internet sources that should be accessed by all drivers. Reminding your friends and family to put their phones down and to wear their seat belts seems like such a little thing, but it can save a life.