The Ultimate Destination: My Personal Commitment to Safe and Defensive Driving

I was only two years old but I was in a very serious car accident that almost killed me. I was so young that I don’t remember anything about the accident itself. But my family has told me this story many times. My mother’s head has a large bump from the crash, a constant reminder of the one careless moment that could have changed my family’s life forever. The other driver wasn’t paying attention and pulled out in front of us, causing the accident. I may not remember the accident, but hearing about it all my life has made me aware of how quickly lives can be changed by the actions of one person behind the wheel.

This event has changed the way I look at driving. Every lesson I have in driver's education reminds me not only to pay attention to my own driving, but to be aware of what is happening around me. Vehicles provide us with amazing freedom and independence, but they are also powerful machines that can do devastating damage if not operated with proper care, caution, and responsibility. Driver education is one of the most important areas in preparing novice drivers for the road. Driving is not just about learning the rules of the road. From my drivers education courses I have learned that safety in the drivers seat is more than knowing all the traffic regulations. A safe driver is one who is alert, who sees danger, who looks for the unforeseen. I may be driving responsibly and cautiously, but I shouldn't assume that everyone else is. Inattentive driving is one of our biggest road problems today. They believe they can glance at a text message, fidget with their phone or take their eyes off the road for a couple of seconds. But those few seconds are enough to change someone's life for good completely. My family's accident was caused by another driver not paying attention. That experience showed me that every decision a driver makes could impact not only themselves but also their passengers, pedestrians, bicyclists, and every other person on the road. There are many things we can do to reduce accidents and traffic deaths. First, drivers should put their phones out of sight before starting the car and avoid any distractions while driving. Second, nobody should ever drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol, because it reduces reaction time and makes deadly mistakes more likely. Third, wear your seat belt at all times. It saves thousands of lives every year and greatly reduces your chances of being seriously injured. Last, but not least, drivers need to be patient. Speeding, tailgating and road rage are often the causes of preventable accidents. Sometimes the best thing to do is just slow it all down, and leave room for others to do the same. As I work toward getting my driver’s license, I have promised myself that I will never drive until I fully understand the responsibility of being behind the wheel. I have also pledged never to drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs. There is no greater destination than a human life.

Another promise I have made is to always keep a very close eye on the drivers around me. I know someone else may not be driving safely even if I am. Driver’s ed taught me that the first rule of defensive driving is to expect the unexpected. Being aware of other drivers’ actions may help me to avoid a dangerous situation. I will also always use my turn signals so that other drivers will clearly understand my intentions. Never drive under the influence of alcohol, practice defensive driving, and always communicate my intentions with my turn signals. These habits will help me become a better and safer driver.

I hope that my own actions will inspire others to drive responsibly as well. If I ever see my friends texting while driving, speeding or thinking about driving after drinking or using drugs, I will speak up. Their decisions could cost someone’s life and no one should ever gamble with another person’s safety. All drivers are responsible. It was fifteen years ago but to this day it still affects me. My mother’s injury is a reminder to me that one careless mistake can change someone’s life forever. I am so thankful to be alive and to have had the opportunity to grow up with such a great family and amazing friends.

I cannot control how other drivers decide to behave on the roads, but I can take responsibility for my decisions and actions. I want to help make roads safer for all of us to drive on by being careful and driving responsibly, putting safety first for all vehicles and road users.