What steps can
you take to be a better and safer driver as well as help others
become safer on the road?

A few weeks
after receiving my license I got a speeding ticket... I know, it’s
not really a great start to an essay about safe driving. However,
it’s not something that I really try to hide. I'm not proud of it;
however, I am proud that I learned from it.



When I first got my license, I was so full of excitement, that I
forgot what a big responsibility it is to be behind the wheel. I
forgot that I hold the fate of not only my life, but the lives of
everyone else I pass going down the road. I was blinded by the
freedom of driving and rush of the speed. The moment I had gotten
pulled over I was filled with regret. I had realized what I was doing
and vowed to make a change within myself. following the event, I took
several steps in order to produce results. I first started with
always using my cruise control. I then decided to have my family and
friends watch my speed as I drive and hold me accountable for any
slip ups I might encounter. Following these steps wasn't enough
though, I also decided to attend a few extra classes at Road America.
I attended the winter driving course as well as the Teen Driving
class.


There are many
things that I believe could lead to a safer environment on the roads,
the first being the mandate (In cold climate states) of teens taking
a winter driving class. I think that many teens are not prepared
enough through drivers ed to be able to safely drive in winter
conditions. I also think that there should be more strict punishment
for those who get caught drunk driving and texting while driving. I
think if there is more to lose when you get caught, then people will
be more likely to think twice before doing it.