Safety on the Road as a Young Driver

Obtaining my driver’s license was a huge milestone for me! As a young passenger I thought driving was such a fun activity and was not fully aware of the responsibilities being behind the wheel held. Once enrolled in my driver’s ed program, I learned of the importance of incorporating road etiquette and safety, including what it means to be a responsible driver. As a passenger, I began paying attention to the driving styles of those entrusted to transporting me, especially as it pertained to whether or not they adhered to the laws of driving. The more knowledgeable I became in driver’s education, the more confident I became as a safe driving advocate as a passenger, often correcting my family and friends on unsafe habits they made such as driving too fast, running yellow lights, etc.
As I began practicing regularly for my road test hours, I realized that safety was not just dependent on my driving skills but also the driving skills of others on the road. I was a bit nervous to operate the huge machinery of a car, but was reassured by my instructors and parents to just take my time. Thus, when others ride my bumper, zip around me and give me dirty looks or inappropriate hand gestures, I just remained calm and focused on the road to maintain safety even if they did not. 
Driver’s education was very important as my initial learning resource to driving because it taught me safe driving tips which are essential to reducing minor or death related vehicle accidents. We learned to drive within the speed limit, avoid distractions, and most importantly, focus on the road, which are essential steps that can be taken to reduce the number of deaths related to driving. As a young driver, my peers are often distracted by having too many passengers, loud music, speeding, and unfortunately the use of substances that alter their ability to focus.
My mom and I were involved in a hit and run accident which left me with conflicting feelings. I was happy that we were not injured, however, sad that my mom’s car was damaged and that the driver who hit us failed to stop and check on us. I admired how my mom modeled patience and remained focused while ensuring that we made it safely to our destination. She utilized the experience as an opportunity to show me that responsible driving includes avoiding negative reactions or confrontations with other drivers, especially when harm is imposed on us. She then showed me the steps on following through with a police report, contacting the insurance company, having the car repaired, and having the confidence to get back on the road. As a result of this accident and her role modeling, I made sure to implement safe practices to avoid having others experience the inconvenience of being involved in an accident as well as the sad emotions surrounding the incident.
As a licensed driver, I incorporate many steps to be a better and safer driver and ensure safety for others on the road. I always take the time to pray before I drive anywhere, asking God to protect me and others from hurt, harm, and danger on the road.  I always wear my seat belt and make sure that my passengers wear their seatbelts too. I keep my music at an appropriate level to allow me to hear potential emergency sounds/sirens on the roads (such as police cars or ambulance sirens). I adhere to posted speed limits on local roads and freeways. Most importantly, I give myself enough time to drive to and from my destinations, to avoid feeling a sense of urgency and the need to drive fast. For example, my school starts at 8 am. Although it only takes me 25 minutes to travel to school on the local road, I leave my house by 7 am to give myself more than enough time to travel and plan for any delays along the way. Arriving early to school enables me to prepare better for my day, something that I did not incorporate when I was a passenger. 
Another step that I implement when driving is being a courteous and respectful driver to others. I believe that exuding patience and courtesy when I am on the road may have a positive impact on others who may be driving under duress. My license plate holder reads “Do You Follow Jesus This Close?” I love having this displayed because it enables me to share my love for God with others and helps me feel protected as a way to discourage others from driving too close and causing an accident. Maybe the message makes them think twice and incorporate a safer distance, which makes it safe for us all.
In conclusion, I take my driver’s responsibility role very seriously. If we all do our part to incorporate safe driving techniques on the road, this can help us all drive to arrive alive! Thank you for your time and consideration of my essay submission.