The Road to Responsibility

            Life is full of temptations. Temptations like pulling out your phone while driving because a friend texts you, or not buckling up because it's uncomfortable. What if you heard that 94-95 percent of car wrecks in the US are caused by unsafe driving? 

            Most individuals, before receiving a driver's license, go through the driver's education process. Driver’s ed can reduce driving-related deaths by teaching new drivers how to handle certain situations before they experience them on their own. Driver's ed teaches the dangers of distracted driving. Sometimes people think they can quickly check their phone while driving, but even that split second you take your eyes off the road can lead to a serious accident. Learning these dangers in driver's ed ahead of time can help drivers understand that their choices behind the wheel can not only put themselves at risk, but others too.

            As a teen, and even as an adult, it can be hard to avoid distractions while driving. How do you ignore the ten notifications that you just got from your friend or the repetitive phone calls from someone, making you think it must be important? The truth is, it can be difficult at times, but to avoid those distractions, simply think about how you'd be putting not only yourself in danger, but others as well.

            Many steps can be taken to reduce the number of deaths related to driving. One of the most important steps is to never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Another important step that can be taken is putting away phones or other distractions while driving. Additionally, all drivers should wear their seat belts anytime they are in a vehicle. Drivers should also wear their seat belts every time they are in a vehicle. Following speed limits, obeying traffic signs, leaving enough space between vehicles, and paying attention to other drivers can also help prevent crashes. Driving more carefully in bad weather is especially important because rain, snow, ice, and fog can make roads much more dangerous. Even though some accidents cannot be prevented, many crashes happen because of choices drivers make.

            I have seen examples of irresponsible driving, and it has made me realize how easily things can go wrong on the road. People, including myself, are guilty of driving too fast, following cars too closely, and becoming distracted by phones or other people. Even when someone thinks they are a good driver, they can still make a mistake. Seeing other people drive irresponsibly shows me that driving should never be taken for granted. A person could be driving safely by themselves and still be affected by others who are speeding, driving recklessly, or not paying attention. This is one reason why drivers should think about more than just their own actions. 

            One way I can become a better and safer driver is by staying focused when I’m behind the wheel. I can keep my phone put away, avoid unnecessary distractions, and pay attention to what’s happening around me. I can also make sure I am following the speed limit and not following other cars too closely. Instead of trying to rush to get somewhere, I can leave earlier so I don’t feel pressured to speed. I also need to remember that being a safe driver requires me to make good decisions even when no one is watching. Following the rules should just be something I do because I could get pulled over. It should be something I do because I want to protect myself and others.

            Similarly, there are many things I can do to help others be safe drivers as well, like setting a good example. If I am riding with someone who is driving irresponsibly, I can encourage them to slow down, put their phone away, or pay closer attention to the road. I can also remind my friends and family that getting to a destination a few minutes faster is never worth putting somebody's life at risk. At times, people don’t realize how dangerous their actions can be until someone points them out. Having the courage to speak up could potentially save a life. 

            Overall, driver education is important because it gives people the knowledge and skills they need to make safer choices on the road. However, education alone is not enough. Drivers have to actually use what they learn and take responsibility for their actions. Avoiding distractions, never driving under the influence, wearing a seat belt, following traffic laws, and staying aware of other vehicles are all simple steps that can make a difference. I can become a safer driver by staying focused, being patient, and making responsible choices. I can also encourage the people around me to do the same. Safe driving is not only about protecting yourself; it is about protecting everyone who shares the road.