Sloan Jambor ‘26, Sports Editor
As children grow up, they look forward to multiple events in their lives, and one of the most exciting moments is getting a driver’s license. The ability to drive (mostly) freely is a responsibility and a privilege, not a right. With this independence comes incredible risks of which new and experienced drivers need to be aware. Without concern for safety and knowledge, damage can be done, and that damage may not only harm the careless driver.
According to Amaron Law Firm, there are around 20,000 car accidents each day, and 118 deaths caused because of them. Most of these accidents are caused by drivers aged from 16-20, and poor driving decisions made by these young drivers. As a new driver, it is important to know the rules of the road in order to ensure safety for yourself and other drivers. A tiny mistake can lead to a major accident, putting yourself, a passenger, a pedestrian, or another driver in danger. Sophomore Brayden Knieper said, “I try my best to follow all road rules because I want to stay safe and make sure everyone around me is safe.” It is crucial that drivers pay attention with their eyes constantly scanning to protect themselves and others. No life deserves to be put at risk or tragically ended because of other drivers’ recklessness on the roads.
Along with the idea of protecting yourself and those around you comes the importance of staying off of devices while driving and steering away from any sort of substance that can put a driver under the influence. The Zebra said, “14% of fatal crashes involve cell phones.” Additionally, The National Institute of Drug Abuse stated that almost 44% of accidents are caused by driving under the influence with 13.5 million drivers around the ages of 16 or 17 taking part in driving with drugs or alcohol in their system. An immense amount of crashes and fatalities occur due to preventable actions in which a driver should never partake. Avoiding drugs, alcohol, or a ping on your phone while driving has the potential to limit the chances of car collisions and damage towards other drivers and passengers.
Finally, without safe driving, you will face more dangerous outcomes; whereas, if you take your time on the roads, there will be reduced risks. Being especially careful during these brutal Michigan winters is one of your safest options as a driver. Sometimes, accidents are unpreventable, but the best thing you can do is learn from them. Senior Eden Donnelly said, “I spun out on ice, and a tree went through my back windshield, but from that I learned that I need to be extra cautious during winter.” You cannot predict what will happen next while driving, but you can try your best to prevent injuries and damage by adopting defensive and steady driving techniques such as, starting your car ahead of time in order to decrease the frost on your windshield and increase visibility, pump your brakes if you find yourself sliding on black ice, or being sure not to overcorrect your steering if you find yourself sliding on black ice.
While driving gives you a lot of freedom, it requires you to step up and be a responsible driver. Being safe and saving lives is a lot better than hurting others or yourself because you want to break a few road rules. Be safe on the roads—it is not just you out there.
Lyon Life 