PROCEED WITH
CAUTION

Every time we get on the road, we are reminded of the many rules and
laws created to ensure a safe and pleasurable time on the road. Along
with following the law, there are various ways to stay safe while
driving that include; avoiding aggressive drivers, having an alert
mind while driving, appropriate following distance, speed, and being
aware of the driving/road conditions. All these factors are good to
keep in mind when operating a vehicle whether on a familiar road or
going somewhere that you might be unfamiliar with.

One of the many
conditions that can lead to unsafe driving is your ability to control
your emotions and/or stress levels. Little things such as the type of
music you might be tuning into or the state of mind you were in when
leaving your prior location. Loud, upbeat, angry music can get your
adrenaline going and subconsciously cause you to speed or do other
things that you wouldn’t necessarily do when not listening to music
at all. It is also important to drive in the right state of mind and
leave with enough time to get to your destination. Our heads need to
be clear and we must not be distracted by anything that could alter
the way we operate a moving vehicle. During my junior year, I had to
be taken to school by my close friend and on the days that we were
running very late, she would speed going double the posted speed
limit and sometimes make wrong turns in the process all because she
didn't have her mind straight on how we needed to get to school
safely and on time. In driving school, we learned that if we are
late, then that's better than not getting to our desired location
harmed or unsafely and possibly putting other lives in danger.
Each day we can
make the personal decision to drive safely or to drive in our
definition of efficiently. For most, efficiency should start before
entering the car by planning out the appropriate time to leave,
assessing which roads to take and what may occur while being on those
roads. Being able to multitask and plan are key components to be a
safe and efficient driver while going through the busy roads from day
to day. By making the choice to be a safe driver, we are aiding in
our own survival each time we get behind the wheel.