Privilege, Not a Right

Madison
Watson

March
23, 2019

Privilege,
Not a Right

Each
year, about 1.3 million people die in fatal car accidents worldwide.
This includes head on collisions, single car accidents, rear end
collisions, or just accidents involving pedestrians, animals, or
collision with an object. In all accidents, there is at least one or
more individuals who were irresponsible when it comes to the rules of
the road. We all learn these rules in drivers ed, gaining
driving hours, and of course taking a written test and driving test
to see if we are prepared to be on the road. But the truth is, we do
not take these requirements as seriously as we should.

We
learn the details of what to do on the road during drivers’
education. Signaling, right of way, following the speed limit, how
to park, etc. Many steps are taken by the instructor to insure we
are capable of being a safe driver. As we all know, we are
responsible for our own actions and own vehicle when driving.
Without the proper knowledge we obtain by taking drivers ed
instruction, accidents would dramatically increase, as well as
fatalities. Even with the requirement of everyone needing to take
these education courses in order to obtain a license, deaths from
crashes are significantly high. How can we lower the number of crash
fatalities you may ask?

All
accidents can happen within seconds, like I’ve previously stated
due to someone not remaining alert and aware of their surroundings.
To reduce fatal car crashes, is it very important to always have your
eyes on the road and to cut off any distractions. Cellular devices,
loud music, even reaching over to pick something up. The smallest
interruptions could lead to the most severe accidents. My experience
with a car accident was minor, and thankfully no one was hurt. It
occurred in a parking lot, where another classmate accidentally
scratched the side of my vehicle when backing out of a parking space.
Though the event was simple enough, my classmate was driving under
and learners permit. Not only was she driving illegally, but she
left the scene of the accident before letting me know what she had
done. She will be penalized for driving alone on a permit and
leaving the scene of an accident. This goes to show when people do
not take drivers ed seriously, actions will be taken against
their privilege to drive.

As
a young adult beginning to become more and more independent, the idea
of driving a vehicle is frightening at times. We may become nervous
in situations that require quick responses when behind the wheel.
But in order for all of us to become better drivers, we must stay
calm and collected. Be aware of the people around you, and
understand we are trying to drive from point A to point B safely. Do
not abuse your privilege, instead take pride in it by being a good
example of a safe driver.