I
think that if I hadn’t taken a driving class, the few slip ups I’ve
had would have been fatal accidents. Before I delve into my
experience as a driver, I’d like to reveal my past as a passenger.
I’ve been in a few car crashes, all ranging from life-threatening
to minor. The main one that impacted me was when I was in middle
school and a drunk driver hit my mom’s car so we spun and hit
several others in the process. I had to go to a chiropractor because
the whiplash and our sore joints were so bad. School wasn’t an
option either, because the trauma of it all prevented me from
focusing on my work.

The
solution seems simple enough right? Don’t drink and drive. But
still thousands of lives are claimed each year because of those who
think whiskey and steering wheels mix. Their overall ability to
function is impaired and so their behavior is too.


Now
shifting the focus to my driving abilities, I’ll give a disclaimer
saying it’s not so pretty. Unfortunately, the first time I drove, I
was sixteen, didn’t have a permit, and lacked hand eye
coordination. My nerves were out of control, and I’m surprised that
I survived. I don’t condone driving without qualifications, but
it’s rather common to see unqualified people behind the wheel
nowadays. Thankfully in my case, I found myself in driving school,
four hours everyday for four days straight during Thanksgiving break.



Video
clips of car accident victims played through my head for days, and
statistics about crashes that happened because of cell phones stuck
in my mind. I got back on the road, after getting my permit, fully
conscious that life could be taken from you at any moment. Of course
I had a little trouble at the start, though eventually I knew how to
make a turn without hitting a curb.


The
most basic solution I have to offer regarding reducing accidents and
deaths on the roads is to adhere fully to driving laws. Also, taking
up a driving course at a school doesn’t hurt. In fact, you’ll end
up taking one by court order if you end up offending a driving law.
Additionally, bringing awareness in little ways, such as hosting
professional speakers and educators in classrooms and assemblies
makes a large impact. Overall, just get as much knowledge as you can
about driving, and use it well.