Starting college as a freshman is an exciting and challenging experience. My name is Sebastien Okullo, and I recently graduated from Paulding County high school. Alongside moving to campus and adjusting to this new phase, I also earned my driver’s license. I am proud to be a new driver, but I am aware of the dangers that come with distracted driving. As I reflect on my experiences and habits behind the wheel, I want to take an honest look at my most common distractions and lay out an action plan to ensure I become a safer, more responsible driver.
Teen driver safety is an important public issue today. This is because new drivers like me are at a higher risk for accidents and serious injuries. Teens are still building their experience and judgment behind the wheel, which means we can sometimes make mistakes that have dangerous consequences—not just for us, but for everyone on the road. That’s why society focuses so much attention on making sure young drivers get the support and education we need to become safe, responsible motorists.
Driver's education plays a critical role in addressing teen driver safety. The classes and behind-the-wheel training help me learn the rules of the road, how to recognize hazards, and what to do in emergency situations. Driver’s ed also teaches me about the consequences of risky behaviors, like texting while driving or driving under the influence. These lessons are crucial because they give me a strong foundation of knowledge and skills before I start gaining real-world experience on my own.
As a new driver, many distractions compete for my attention. These moments of inattention may seem minor, but I know that even a moment of distraction can have serious consequences. After carefully considering my daily driving experiences, I have found that phone usage is my most common distracted driving habit.
The most frequent temptation I face while driving is checking my smartphone. Text messages, notifications from social media, and even using GPS apps often draw my eyes away from the road. Sometimes, I feel compelled to quickly check my GPS, especially since I am now new to driving alone. Even at stoplights, I find myself glancing at my phone, which can linger into regular driving.
Listening to music is how I keep myself entertained and alert during long drives. However, changing songs, browsing playlists, or adjusting the volume can take my hands off the wheel and my focus off driving.
Sometimes, after a long day of work, my mind starts to wander even as I drive. I’ve noticed that this “zoning out” can make me miss important signs or changes in traffic.
Acknowledging my habits is just the beginning. To ensure that I drive safely, I am committing to a series of concrete actions designed to eliminate these distractions and protect both myself and others on the road.
As a teen, I can commit to always turning my phone to “Do Not Disturb” mode before I start my car. My phone will stay on the phone holder for the GPS or put away when driving. If I need to use GPS, I will set up directions before leaving and enable voice guidance to avoid looking at the screen. I will also practice mindfulness techniques before trips, such as taking deep breaths and mentally reviewing my route. If I catch myself daydreaming, I will gently remind myself to focus on driving and, if necessary, pull over to rest if I am too tired or distracted.
Schools also play a big role in driver safety by offering comprehensive driver’s education programs and regular safety campaigns. They can organize workshops, invite guest speakers who have experienced the impact of unsafe driving, and create peer-led groups where teens can discuss their challenges and share strategies for staying focused behind the wheel.
Communities can support us by enforcing traffic laws near schools, setting up safe driving awareness events, and providing places where young people can practice driving in a safe environment. Law enforcement and local leaders can also work together with families to reinforce the importance of safe habits and encourage parents to model responsible driving.
Developing safe driving habits is an ongoing process that requires honesty, discipline, and willingness to change. As a new driver and a new college freshman, I am aware of both the temptations and the responsibilities that come with being behind the wheel. By addressing my distracted driving habits and following these concrete steps, I am committed to keeping myself, my passengers, and other road users safe. I understand that small changes in my behavior can make a significant difference, and I look forward to a future of safe, focused, and responsible driving.