Rachel
Bragg

In
the Driver’s Seat Essay Contest

One
deadly Second
From
a small age we are taught things like texting and driving, not
wearing a seat belt, and not paying attention to the road was
dangerous and could result in our deaths. But how serious have we
taken these warning? When starting to drive most teens do not know
all the rules and regulations of the road, making it dangerous for
them and everyone around them. Taking a drivers ed course
is a simple way to become familiar with the rules of the road and how
to become the best, and safest driver you can be. Since driver’s
education courses are so beneficial why are they not required when
the skills students are learning in these classes could save a life
one day. Just because you take drivers ed doesn’t mean you are
invincible on the roads, but it sure does make you more aware of your
surroundings and what to do and what not to do.


I myself have been in a
major car accident. It was December of 2018 and it has been one of
the most impactful things in my life. The thought that I could have
killed not only myself, but my boyfriend and even strangers is what
sticks with me every day. In one deadly second I could have lost my
life and the life of someone who I love very much. After my car
accident I was scared to drive and convinced myself that I did not
know enough about the roads to be driving on them. This accident is
why I have made sure I will be taking a drivers ed course
because I want and need to feel more confident in my driving skills
and knowledge.

I
believe that the steps to reducing the number of deaths related to
driving are the same as the steps to become a safe driver and to help
other become a safe driver. The first step we all need to take is to
put down the phone. As my mom has always told me, the text will still
be there after you park the car. The second step would be to pay
attention to not only yourself but to the other drivers around you.
The next step would be to always make sure you are mentally and
physically prepared to drive, thinking about other things while
driving or even being tired can all be a danger. Overall no matter
how many times we are told, we have to want to make a change in our
driving habits and make the effort to take a drivers ed
course to expand our knowledge and skills to try and make our roads
the safest we can make them.