Most people never realize how dangerous driving is until it is too late. Whenever someone gets their permit, they are normally thinking something like, “Oh boy…this is gonna be scary,” or  “I can’t believe I’m finally here!” However, it’s all fun and games until you finally get your license. When people think of getting their license, they think of the usual “I can drive whenever and however I want.” While it is important and exciting to get a drivers license, once someone has that control in their possession, they don’t always make the right choices. Some people think that when they are driving, they are invincible to forming bad driving habits, but this is untrue.

There are many potential bad driving habits that may form, such as distracted driving, speeding, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, aggressive driving, failing to signal turns, tailgating, and not wearing a seatbelt. Unfortunately, drinking—or driving under the influence—is a big deal because people easily get hurt or lose their lives. According to a CDC report from 2020, 18.5 million people 16 or older have driven under the influence. All of these can lead to death, car accidents, injuries, fatalities, traffic violations, increased stress, costly vehicle damage, and even chronic health issues. When people think they are invincible, they also create the urge to speed. 

To avoid these habits and life-altering accidents, people also need to learn how to use defensive and offensive driving. Defense and offense driving is when you are driving and you try to avoid accidents using awareness to anticipate potential hazards, and create space around your vehicle. All of these include not just cars, but also motorcycles, bikes, dirt bikes, and walking. You never know who you’ll be with, and when or where something might happen, which is why everybody needs to be aware of their surroundings. Being aware of your surroundings, also known as situational awareness can prevent accidents and save lives. For example, if you are on a walk and you want to cross the street, you will immediately look both ways before crossing the street. This is situational awareness, because you are being aware of your surroundings and what’s happening around you. Drivers also need to have situational awareness to keep pedestrians safe. Pedestrian safety is when the driver in a car has to be aware of who and what is on the road at all times to prevent accidents. 

Using safety awareness while driving can help prevent accidents in many different ways. It is always good to be aware of your surroundings no matter where you are, or who you’re with. You can save and help people in many different ways without even knowing you did. 

Driving is more than just a privilege; it is a serious responsibility that requires awareness, focus, and respect for others on the road. Whether it’s avoiding distractions, refusing to drive under the influence, or simply paying attention to your surroundings, every decision behind the wheel can make a difference between life and tragedy. By practicing safe driving habits and staying aware, we not only protect ourselves but also everyone around us. The road is shared, and it’s up to each of us to make it a safer place with our actions.