It's Just a Habit

Right now, I am writing this essay with the monotonous drone of a Hallmark Christmas film, the crashing sounds of the dishwasher being loaded, and my family’s philosophical discussion on what exactly a “Thanksgiving movie” is assaulting my ears. In this current situation, I would be in no condition to operate a multi-thousand pound vehicle. Yet often that is exactly what I see others doing—allowing the distraction of their phone, the other passengers in the car, and other drivers to keep them from focusing on safe driving practices. This problem shows the importance of having a solid drivers ed as a requirement before getting a driver’s permit and license, as the healthy habits formed by it can prevent new drivers from being distracted on the road.

Although studying with a drivers ed program may seem tedious at times, it is important to remember that following the rules outlined by it reduces the risk of getting in an accident. For example, after the state of Oregon began enacting stricter regulations over its drivers ed standards, there was a 55% drop in serious crashes involving 16-year-olds and an almost 40% drop involving 17-year-olds over the next decade1. A study in Nebraska also revealed that teens who did not complete drivers ed were 24% more likely to be involved in a critical or fatal accident2. Still, simply taking a drivers ed course is not enough to reduce one’s own risk of being involved in an accident. The rules of the road must become habit by repetition.

Even though I have not started driving myself, I am in the process of completing in a drivers ed program. This has been difficult to do, as driving is a big source of anxiety for me. Seeing the effects of accidents on the road and having a few close calls as a passenger have contributed to this, as well as a lack of personal confidence. But my future as a working college student is getting closer, and the reality that I will need a driver’s license has become clear. This realization gives me the motivation to continue, and I know that it will help me being the safest driver that I can be while encouraging others to be safe on the road.

Driving at any age can be challenging and scary at times, but it is comforting to know that the knowledge provided by a drivers ed program will always prove useful. When applied correctly, the habits it produces could save your life. As trivial as buckling a seatbelt, checking the mirrors, and keeping both hands on the wheel might seem, these habits contribute towards a safe driving experience for everyone involved.

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