Alexandria — OK, I admit it. I was sentenced to driving school by a Wytheville County judge for speeding on Interstate 81. Yikes.
So, I paid the price with eight grueling hours and only a few breaks on a beautiful sunny Saturday cooped up in a hotel conference room without windows. I listened intently to what happens to speeders, which, of course, I was one. But, guess what? It was the best eight hours I have spent in a long time.
The course for me was a solid and strong reminder about responsibility. It is the obligation we have as drivers. We must make it a habit to be a defensive driver at all times.
“We choose how we drive,” my instructor read from The National Safety Council’s Defensive Driving Course Handbook.
The lecturer said each time we begin to drive that we are responsible for a “lethal weapon” under our control. We are also responsible for our passengers, other drivers, pedestrians and property. Students were reminded how quickly accidents happen. A big cause is drivers think about everything else but driving. So, admit it. What are you thinking at the wheel — lunch, dinner, meeting or shopping? Most of us are not thinking about our driving at all. More often than not we press hard on the gas pedal and become oblivious to our colleagues zipping down the roadways.
It is a good thing to experience this refresher driving course however inconvenient or maybe embarrassing. Too bad a traffic judge had to get involved with me. I was reminded of so many important points. The instructor suggested that safe drivers, even before moving their vehicle, make an outside vehicle check. He suggested cleaning the windows, checking all lights, mirrors, windshield wipers, tires, and under the car for any leaks.
Once inside, there is still more checking to do — lock the doors, fasten safety belts, look for warning lights, and be ready physically and emotionally to take driving responsibility. Next, focus on driving and not on other matters like work, chores or family issues. Drive defensively.
I highly recommend everyone take a driving safety course. Don’t wait for a speeding ticket. A volunteer driving class is less expensive than a state-managed class and increased insurance rates.
The advantages are considerable but they can save your life and others. According to The National Safety Council’s Defensive Driving Course Handbook, there are 10 habits of defensive driving. These are listed and discussed in the handbook. Stop by Senior Services of Alexandria, 700 Princess Street, and let me share my book with you. I’ll give you the telephone number or website to register for this important course. I am a fan. More important, I don’t speed anymore. Really.