Safe Drivers

Driving Essay

With wrecks being the number one cause of teenage fatalities, driver education is essential to keeping the roads safe and protecting the lives of those who are valued most. Joshua’s law, passed in 2007, requires sixteen year old drivers to participate in and pass a drivers ed course before receiving their license. These classes are essential as teenagers learn the basics of driving, such as changing lanes, adjusting mirrors, and utilizing turn lanes, but they also teach how to manage traffic filled interstates and dangerous conditions. These menacing situations can and will arise when driving and knowing how to handle them is essential to protecting a life while driving.

In order to reduce the number of unfortunate deaths caused by motor vehicles, drivers education courses need to be required no matter one’s age. With the current Joshua’s law, if a driver waits until age seventeen, they are able to gain a license without receiving a drivers ed class. These drivers are sent out onto the road without the necessary toolbox that is provided through drivers ed classes. In addition, drivers should be required to take defensive driving courses. Drivers panic when on the road and an unexpected event occurs. This causes accidents and fatalities. However, if better methods can be taught, drivers can think clear headedly in unusual situations and maneuver their car in a safe and effective manner. Teaching drivers and giving drivers experience is the most important factor that can reduce driving related deaths.

Two years ago, my sister was in a dangerous car accident in which her life as well as her friend’s life was at stake. An irresponsible truck driver in the opposite lane swerved into my sister’s lane causing her to panic. She quickly jerked her wheel away causing her to run off the road, up a hill, and in between two guide wires. These wires could have sliced her car in half and taken these two girls lives had they not ended up between them. If my sister had gotten the proper education and learned not to swerve or jerk the wheel this whole potentially deadly accident could have been avoided. To become a better driver, I will always allow an ample amount of time to get to my destination so as to not be in a rush. I will always stay alert and not be distracted. I will follow all laws and rules of the road, including the speed limit. I will remember the seriousness of the responsibility I am given when driving. Most importantly, I will remember what I have learned through my drivers ed course on how to handle unknown situations that arise when driving. By setting a good example and making a change within myself, I can help others become safer drivers one by one bringing safety to our roads and reducing the number of fatalities.

• What is the importance of drivers ed in reducing the number deaths as a result of driving?

• What steps can be taken to reduce the number of deaths related to driving?

• Have you ever had an experience of being in car accident or have seen your friends or family members driving irresponsibly?

• What steps can you take to be a better and safer driver as well as help others become safer on the road?

Less than 500 words and a picture

Joshua’s law 2007 passed “requiring a drivers ed course to be completed before 16 years olds are able to obtain a Class D license” or wait until 17

“leading cause of death for teenagers is that of motor vehicle wrecks”

“course will help teenagers develop rudimentary vehicle control and traffic manueuvers”

“busy interstates, night, dangerous driving circumstances”

all basics”turn lanes, changing lane, adjusting speed, adjusting mirrors, traffic signals