I remember the first time I truly understood the danger of impaired driving. With social media so popular, it's not uncommon to see others on the road texting, calling, or just looking at their phone on the road in general. It's almost normalized. Two close friends of mine were late to soccer practice about two years ago, and no one knew why. We were obviously all very worried until word came about that they were in an accident. Luckily they were both okay, but the car was totaled. The driver was on Snapchat, and unknowingly went off the road and hit a utility pole. I wasn't even in the car, but the story has stuck with me. Even just a glance at her phone caused such an accident. Hearing about this made all of the distracted driving statistics real for me, they're not just numbers; it is real lives, real people, real families. From that experience on, I realized that driving is more than a skill, but a responsibility that can so easily impact many.

To me, impaired driving is more than just alcohol and drugs. It is really any action or state that affects a drivers' ability to make safe decisions on the road. This could range from something as seemingly simple as texting and fatigue, to medications, alcohol or even stress and other emotions that could potentially distract a driver. Even those who have completed drivers' education may not fully comprehend these risks. I've noticed many who think that they're careful and responsible, and can handling a simple glance to their phone, or driving with a severe lack of sleep. Yet, a single lapse in judgement like these is all that it takes to change a life forever. One irresponsible decision can have consequences that last a lifetime, and that thought is a constant reminder whenever I'm in the car, as a driver or passenger.

The most common impairments I see day to day are texting while driving. I've witnessed, on numerous occasions, incidents incredibly close to accidents. The car swerving, breaks squealing, all from taking a look at a text. Even when I know I'm getting a text or call I've been looking forward to, I'm reminded how drastic checking that notification could be. Whenever I'm the passenger of a friend who's driving, I always make sure to check and read the message for them, if it is that important to them. I've also seen how emotions can impair driving. Anger, frustration sadness, or even excitement can distract a driver enough to cause some close calls. On the way to school, my friend gave me a ride, and we were so excited because they had the coffee truck outside. She was so focused on that, and watching the line, we had a close call, almost rear-ending the car in front of us. Experiencing these incidents, whether I'm in the car with a friend, or witnessing it as an outsider, have shaped my awareness and influenced the choices I make behind the wheel. It has also instilled in me that safety is not just a personal matter, everyone around me is affected just the same.

Personally, I put the safety of myself and others above anything else while driving. I plan to avoid driving while overly tired or distracted, and always speak up when I catch a friend checking their phone, or seem off in a daze while driving. I also hope to share what I've learned and the importance of drivers education to others, whether through conversations with friends or social media. Small, simple reminders and conversations can go a long way in educating people and shaping their attitudes and mindsets. One person choosing the smart choice behind the wheel could influence an entire group.

Overall, impaired driving is a preventable issue. However, it requires awareness, responsibility, and taking action. By staying alert on the road, making the right decisions, and encouraging others to do the same, I can help reduce risks on the road and help spread awareness for safe driving. Driving isn't just a privilege, it is a responsibility that we must take seriously. Every decisions behind the wheel has the potential to change lives, sometimes for the better, and others in ways that can't be undone. By making the choice to drive safely, and encouraging others to do the same, I hope to make the roads safer for everyone and ensure that the privilege of driving is matched with the responsibility that it demands.