A Serious Side to Driving

	By Lydia, a Girl Scout Summer can be an ideal time for learning to drive if you have a stay-at-home parent or one who teaches well, but some of us do not have that luxury. For those who don't, I recommend a driver's education course. The one I have signed up for has 24 hours of classroom instruction and 12 hours of driving practice. In the class, you'll learn rules of the road, common courtesies, and defensive driving skills. A class such as this will help to prepare you for the test to get your license. The course continues to help after you've obtained a license. Insurance companies usually give discounts for having outside instruction. This could save tons of money for you or your family. Overall, driving classes are worth the effort and expense. Just make sure to do your research and sign up with a credible driving school!

By Gabbi Ho

I was once in a rush to get my driver's license but now that I think about it, what's the rush? You should never rush the process when you're not yet ready. There are so many responsibilities when you have your driver's license. During your teen years, there are many temptations all around you. It's good to take your time and know for sure that you're ready to take on all the duties to be a safe driver.

I've known Wynne since the 6th grade. She was a very talented girl from what I remember: an athlete, very photogenic, and a creative artist. I used to pass notes with her every day in class and talk on the phone with her for hours. She was always there for me when I needed a friend. And when other friends turned their backs on me in the 7th grade, she still remained a good friend to me.

Alas, high school came about and we parted ways. Our conversations shortened and we didn't see each other as much but our friendship was still there.

It was around 2:00 in the afternoon when I found out. I had just finished playing in a basketball tournament when my cell phone rang. On the other end of the line was an old friend from middle school. She started rambling to me about how the car was flipped over and that Wynne and her boyfriend died instantly.

I thought it was a joke when I first heard about Wynne's death. It was just unimaginable that something so horrible would happen to someone I knew. Any and every small decision you make while you drive is critical. It is heartbreaking to know that 2 people lost their lives at such a young age because of a careless speeding decision made.

Driving over the speed limit (speeding) is often done when the driver is running late or feeling impatient. Some people speed just for fun. The speed limit is set for a good reason, that is, to keep others safe. There is a speed limit around schools because there can be instances when kids run around near the streets where cars may or may not be obeying the speed limit—which can definitely cause a tragic accident. That also goes for all the freeways, highways, and streets. If you're speeding while other cars aren't, that can be an accident waiting to happen. It's a smart decision to obey all traffic laws to prevent unthinkable things from happening. Making the choice to be a safe and smart driver means there is one less reckless driver on the road.

Another issue related to teen driving is driving under the influence. When under the influence of alcohol, you aren't fully aware of what's going on in reality. Alcohol may change your judgments. It may also change your awareness of your surroundings. One example is that you may believe that you are not drunk, when in reality, you are. Teens these days have parties where alcohol might be available. If you're planning to drive to a party like that, remember that you are also driving yourself home and possibly your friends too. You are the designated driver and you don't want to put you and your friends in danger. Driving responsibly is the first step to becoming a safe driver.

After reading about Wynne, I hope you can pass on this message about driving responsibly. Please take your time when you decide to be on the road. It is a big step in your life, so make it a safe one!