By Gwen Grass



Safety is key
Sitting behind the driver’s wheel is a pivotal moment for those who wish to drive. Especially for those who are teenagers, this can be a chance for them to gain independence and feel a sense of freedom. However, people young and old may take risk on the road and feel as if they are invisible which has led to severe car accidents as well as deaths around the world.
While driving I have seen several accidents, most of them caused by reckless driving and not paying attention. Some crashes are also caused by people who do not choose to use their headlights, windshield wipers, high beams, low beams, or turn them on at the wrong time of the day. This is one reason why drivers ed is an important component before obtaining a license. Not only are you taught the fundamental rules of the road, but you learn about your car before driving and when you should take your car in for service. Taking drivers ed should be taken seriously and people should ask questions and pay attention while instructors are teaching them the basics about their car.
Driving requires 100% attention and distracted driving has been caused by a variety of factors. For one, our phones are a huge distraction and we feel the need to send that last text message, talk on the phone, or find that perfect song. Why is it though that we choose to engage in such reckless behavior while driving and why can we not put our phones down? This is a question I cannot fathom but all I know is that we should put our devices away for the sake of others safety. If we can make this small change this can make a difference in our society and reduce the number of deaths that happen each year.
I have not been in a car crash, but I have seen friends and family members put others in harms way because of their driving. While sitting in the passenger seat there have been instances where the driver listens to extremely loud music where they are distracted and drive past the speed limit. Other times people are on their phones and make the mistake of texting instead of paying attention to what is in front of them. We are all guilty of making these kinds of mistakes, but it is up to us to protect our selves and pay attention to our surroundings.
Knowing how many car accidents there are each year I myself can be a better driver and at times I too can be distracted. We should take driving seriously by taking drivers ed and help friends and family members practice safer driving techniques. Gaining insight about the car in which you are driving is critical and can help in the long run. Educating one another about the rules of the road and telling others about the dangers of texting can make a difference in our future.