When I started learning how to drive, my parents signed me up for a parent-taught course. At first, I just thought it would be a way to get a driver's license, but it ended up being a really good thing for me. They wanted to make sure I actually understood what it means to drive safely, not just pass the test and move on. In our family, we always say, “Be a defensive driver, because defensive drivers drive safer.” At first, I thought it was just something they said, but now it really makes sense.
Teen driver safety is a big deal. A lot of us are just starting out, so we’re still learning how to make quick decisions and pay attention to everything going on around us. With phones, music, friends in the car, and pressure to drive a certain way, it’s easy to get distracted. And that’s when accidents happen. One wrong move can mess up a lot more than just your car. That’s why I think driver’s ed is so important. It helps prepare us, gives us real examples, and helps us build good habits early.
Something happened last year that really made me understand how serious driving is. My mom was driving me and my younger siblings, Knox and Cruz, home from the batting cages. We were stopped at a red light when suddenly, a car slammed into the back of us. It was loud, scary, and totally unexpected. Before we could even process what happened, the car drove off. Later, we found out the driver was 16 years old, didn’t have a license or insurance, and had no business being behind the wheel.
What hit me most is how easily it could have been avoided. If that driver had been paying attention, they would’ve seen that we were stopped. Maybe they were on their phone or just not watching the road, but either way, it was something that could’ve hurt us badly. We were lucky to be okay, but it definitely shook me up. I wasn’t even the one driving, but that moment taught me how serious driving really is and how fast things can happen.
For teens, I think one of the hardest things is learning how to deal with distractions. It doesn’t seem like a big deal to check a text or change a song, but that split second is all it takes to miss something important. There’s also pressure, like trying to look confident or go along with whatever your friends are doing in the car. But being a good driver isn’t about impressing people. It’s about getting everyone home safely.
That’s where parents, schools, and even friends can help. I think schools could do more by bringing in people to talk to students who’ve been affected by car accidents. Hearing real stories sticks with people more than reading facts in a book. Parents should also set the example. If my parents were always texting and speeding, I probably wouldn’t take driving seriously either. What they do matters more than what they say.
Friends can help, too. If someone’s driving recklessly, we should be able to speak up. It’s awkward, but it’s better than getting into an accident. Communities could also run more teen-focused safe driving events or even give rewards for things like wearing seatbelts or staying off your phone. I think seeing more people our age talking about safe driving would make a difference. It feels more real coming from someone going through it, not just an adult.
Right now, I’m still working on getting my license, but I’ve already learned a lot. I’ve also been focused on school. I finished my freshman year with a 4.0 GPA, and I hope to study business in college. One day, I want to start my own dessert company (I’m currently working on perfecting a strawberry cheesecake jar recipe!). But no matter where life takes me, I know the lessons I’m learning from driving, like being focused, thinking ahead, and taking responsibility, will help me in every part of my future.
Learning to drive has been way more than just figuring out how to park or stay in my lane. It’s taught me how important it is to stay aware and look out for others. Driving is a privilege, and I’m learning to treat it that way. I’m thankful my parents have been right there with me, helping me build the kind of habits that will keep me and the people around me safe.
I know I still have a lot to learn, but I’m ready to keep growing and doing my part to be a safer driver—and help others do the same.