Never should have, could have would have

Driving is often seen as a symbol of freedom and independence. It allows people to travel to work, visit loved ones, and pursue opportunities that would otherwise be out of reach. Yet, behind every set of car keys is a responsibility that can determine whether someone arrives home safely or whether another family experiences unimaginable loss. Reckless driving continues to claim thousands of lives every year, making driver education more important than ever. I learned this lesson through my own family. My mom was involved in a car accident that was not her fault. As immigrants, the financial burden of repairing the damage and navigating the aftermath was overwhelming. Even so, we reminded ourselves that while money could eventually be earned again, her life could not. She walked away with less money in her pocket instead of her life being taken away, and that is a privilege in itself. That experience taught me that being a good driver is important, but being a defensive driver is essential.

Driver education plays a critical role in reducing deaths because it teaches more than the basic rules of the road. It develops the mindset needed to recognize hazards before they become tragedies. Many accidents occur because drivers are distracted, speeding, impaired, angry, or overconfident in their abilities. After getting into an accident, the thoughts should never be should have, could have, or would have. They should simply be a sigh of relief that you are okay. A comprehensive driver education program helps people understand the consequences of these behaviours while teaching practical skills such as maintaining safe following distances, checking blind spots, anticipating the mistakes of other drivers, and staying focused behind the wheel. These lessons save lives because they encourage drivers to think ahead rather than simply react.

My mother's accident reinforced the importance of defensive driving. Although she followed the rules, another driver's actions still put her in danger. It showed me that safe driving is not only about controlling your own vehicle but also about expecting that others may make mistakes. Defensive driving means remaining alert, avoiding unnecessary risks, adjusting to road conditions, and making decisions that reduce the chances of a collision. These habits can be the difference between a close call and a life-changing accident.

There are several steps society can take to reduce the number of deaths related to driving. Strong driver education programs should be accessible to everyone, especially young and inexperienced drivers, regardless of how much money a person has. Public awareness campaigns can continue reminding people about the dangers of distracted and impaired driving, which is why social media platforms like Instagram would be a great way to share this, especially with people known to the public eye across all ages so they have more influence with a variety of audiences. Laws against texting while driving, excessive speeding, and impaired driving should continue to be enforced consistently because accountability encourages safer behaviour. Advances in vehicle safety technology, including automatic emergency braking and lane departure warnings, can also help prevent collisions. However, no technology can replace responsible decision-making. A driver's choices remain the most important factor in keeping roads safe, which is why good driver education is essential.

Although I have not personally been involved in a serious collision, my mom's accident has shaped the way I view driving. I have also seen people around me engage in irresponsible behaviours such as looking at their phones while driving or following other vehicles too closely. These actions may seem harmless in the moment, but they only take a few seconds to result in a tragedy. Seeing these behaviours has reinforced my belief that every driver shares responsibility for the safety of everyone on the road.

As I continue learning to drive, I am committed to becoming a safer driver by practicing defensive driving every time I get behind the wheel. I will avoid distractions, obey speed limits, remain patient in heavy traffic, and always wear my seatbelt. I also want to encourage others to adopt these habits by speaking up when I see unsafe behaviour and by setting a positive example. Sometimes the most effective way to influence others is simply by demonstrating responsible choices ourselves.

Driving has the power to transform lives by providing independence, opportunity, and freedom. It allows students to attend school, parents to support their families, and individuals to connect with their communities. At the same time, one reckless decision can take away someone's future in an instant. My mother's accident reminded me that even careful drivers can be affected by the choices of others. That is why driver education and defensive driving are so important. By preparing drivers to anticipate risks, remain alert, and prioritize safety over convenience, we can reduce preventable deaths and help ensure that every journey ends with someone returning home safely.