I think it is very important to be a safe driver on the road. Drivers’ education is so crucial for everyone to learn before they seek their permit and before they go on the road. When I took my driver education course, it helped me understand how a car works, how to operate a vehicle, and what is permitted and not permitted while driving. Another thing I learned from drivers’ education was about all the resources available to help me be the best driver I can be. For example, I was able to download a phone app that helped me study for the permit test. The app was like a trial permit test with many questions that helped me prepare to take the actual permit test through the state. I took the practice tests as many times as I could to ensure I would be well-prepared when I was scheduled to take the actual permit test. It turned out that I passed the permit test the first time and probably could not have done it without the study app. After I passed my permit test, I had to take behind the wheel (BTW) which is where an instructor drives with you, and you have to get a certain number of hours of driving time with the instructor before you take the road test. That practice driving time was very helpful for me too because the instructor would give me advice about my driving and would let me know what to look out for on the road test. I firmly believe that studying, practicing and completing the required education, practice hours and tests result in having more safe drivers on the road.

A big part of the car accidents we have in the U.S. is a result of careless driving and drivers not thinking about consequences of their actions. I think that a big issue is drinking and driving. I don’t have any respect for drivers who decide to drink and then drive. I think it is such a horrible and selfish thing to do; it puts the lives of others on the road at risk. Another big issue is distracted driving which includes things like being on your phone, doing your makeup, eating, or trying to look for something in your car. I think anything that takes your eyes off the road or your mind to another area of focus is considered distracted driving. As you can see, these are all choices you can make, and those choices can make all the difference in the world when it comes to preventing accidents or worse. So, what we can start doing with drinking and driving is just not do it, it is just that simple. Be aware of how much alcohol you are consuming and think about if it is safe to drive with that much alcohol in your system. With respect to distracted driving, there are ways to avoid it like putting your phone on driving do not disturb mode, giving yourself extra time in the morning to do your makeup, and ensuring you eat before you drive. Also, try to plan before a drive so you have everything you need and make sure you are not too tired to drive. It is important to make sure you are at your best before you are on the road. It is so important that we use these practices while or before driving.

When I was eight years old, I got into a car accident with my family. My dad, my mom, my twin, and I were all in the crash. We were lucky that everyone was ok, but it was very scary for me. We had the right of way, the man that hit us was distracted and not paying attention. I was really surprised because everything just happened so fast. I blinked for a few seconds and then I just saw smoke everywhere and my lip was bleeding. I just remember sitting there in shock waiting to get out of the car and screaming and crying. After the crash, I was very thankful that random people were stopping and getting out of their cars to help my family. It was a true act of kindness. The man that hit us felt very guilty about what he did and said sorry to us several times. But that man was very lucky that none of us were hurt by the consequences of his decision to drive distracted. When I hear about car accidents on the news or see them on the road as I’m driving, it is always an important reminder that you have to take driving seriously. Before I drive, I make sure I am always prepared to ensure I am safe on the road. I make sure that my mirrors and my seat are in a good position, I put my phone away, and I also make sure I am in a good mind space to drive. Usually when I take time to do this routine, it helps me become a better safe driver.