79 Students Share the Best Safe Driving Advice They’ve Ever Heard

In our recent Enjuris Florida Drive Safe Scholarship Contest, we asked students across the nation to tell us about the best piece of advice they’ve ever received about driving safely and avoiding car accidents. Nearly 100 students attending universities all around the country responded, leaving our editorial team with the difficult task of selecting just one winner of the $1,000 scholarship.

So many of the submissions we received were impressive, thoughtful and well-written that we wanted to share some of our favorites with you! We found that students often received their favorite driving tip from a parent, particularly dads (Nice job, dads!), as well as from their teachers and driving instructors. Personal close calls also played a role in helping young drivers understand the importance of safe driving. As they say, sometimes experience is the best teacher.

Please consider sharing this safe driving advice with your loved ones. Thanks to everyone who participated!

Essay question: What’s the best advice you’ve received about driving safely and avoiding car accidents?

Ariana Afshar, California Polytechnic State University:

“I found out that my brother was texting and driving. He was so focused on texting that he hadn’t noticed the car in front of him on a 70 mph freeway had come to a complete stop. My brother totaled his car. He drove right into an SUV with a toddler in the backseat. The first thing he told me was ‘Ariana, please drive safely. I saw my life flash in front of my eyes and I just can’t ever let that happen to you.’ His words of advice will be with me for the rest of my life.”

Ronak Agarwal, University of California, San Diego:

“The best advice that I got about driving safety was to avoid driving at night if possible. If I avoid driving during night and only drive during the daytime, then I will experience less chances of people being sleepy, drunk, and people using their high beams, resulting in a safer driving experience.”

Xochilt Albiter, Texas A&M University:

“Driving safely isn't just about avoiding accidents but keeping your future intact. What good are all these dreams and aspirations to succeed and graduate college and start a family if you’re not there to see it? Being considerate of others and taking all the necessary precautions to get from point A to point B doesn’t just avoid a deadly car crash, it means giving your and everyone else's dreams a chance to exist. Everyone on the road is loved and important to someone.”

“This world needs me, and by driving safely I’m fighting for the woman I’ll be tomorrow.”

Jasmina Aliakbar, University of California, San Diego:

“The day of my final written and driving test my sixty-two year old uncle from southern California was in town and came over for breakfast. I guess my excitement was uncontainable because he caught me smiling to myself. We began talking about becoming a first-time driver and I thought I was going to receive the same old, generic advice that seemed to be coming at me nonstop. However, he told me something that got through to me right then and there and that still sticks with me to this day: ‘The best drivers in the world must possess two traits: politeness and patience.’”

Cade Almaraz, University of Wisconsin-La Crosse:

“A world without us using our phones while we drive is a safer one. So, if you asked me “What is the best advice I received for driving safely and avoiding car accidents?”, I’d say put down the phone and drive. Do it for you and for those around you.”

Marcel Amazan, University of Massachusetts Dartmouth:

“‘When you are driving, other people’s lives are in your hands.’ My father said this to me many times as he was sitting by my side in the passenger seat, teaching me the correct way to drive. If there’s one thing from my dad’s lessons that I’ll always remember, it’s that driving a car is nothing to play with. Every time I get behind the wheel, I remember that there is always a risk, and that risk involves my life and the lives of others.”

“Whenever I get behind the wheel, I drive safely because I never want to be responsible for taking someone’s life away. Our lives are too valuable to be thrown away.”

Sheryl Armstrong, Washington State University:

“The best driving advice I received was to stay away from the herd. Make the conscious decision to stay back several lengths from the packs traveling on the roads. By doing so, the driver can observe the road carefully, anticipate when cars change lanes, and monitor for any hazards… Staying a distance away from the herd keeps drivers and their passengers safe. It forces drivers to not be complacent, to hone all their senses, and be fully aware of their surroundings.”

Caroline Baca, Texas A&M University:

“Personal experience gave me this bit of invaluable advice: if something looks, smells, or sounds even the tiniest bit wrong in your car, try to diagnose the problem immediately… take care of your car, because then it’ll take care of you.”

Destany Barnett, University of California, San Diego:

“My father always tells me to stay ‘triple aware.’ He told me this when I was learning how to drive. I made sure to keep his advice in mind at all times despite the little experience I had on the road. Over time, I learned that being triple aware means keeping your eyes on the road and your mirrors, staying alert at all times, and not getting distracted by anything. This advice has helped me to become a responsible and safe driver.”

Tracy Barton, Pacific Northwest College of Art:

“There are many ways to keep yourself safe while driving. We can all name numerous strategies to prevent car accidents: don’t text and drive, don’t drive distracted, don’t drive drowsy, always be aware of other drivers, and follow all traffic signs. These are all great pieces of advice and will help prevent accidents, but all these strategies can be condensed into one easy to remember rule: always keep your eyes on the road.”

Dylan Bragdon, University of California, San Diego:

“...this officer wasn’t here to give me a ticket. He looked me in the eye and told me how he’s seen a lot of bright young kids die because of stupid mistakes like mine. He told me how he’s witnessed too many life-changing accidents, all because college kids think they’re invincible. This man wasn’t angry with me, he was genuinely concerned for my life, as well as those around me. He told me that if there were more people who took the time to consider the well-being of everyone on the road, then there would be less tragedies seen in everyday life; that I was responsible for not only myself, but every other person that shares the road with me.”

Cherish Buss, Marquette University:

“The best advice I have ever received that pertains to my personal safety while driving is to always be present. When you are willingly and knowingly stepping behind the wheel, it is crucial to always remain mentally, physically, and emotionally present. If at any moment I am faced with a situation that leaves me feeling flustered, impaired or disorientated, I hand my keys over to someone else or stay put until I can regain a clear head. If I so happened to drive when my abilities to think or react properly are impaired, I am not only putting my life in jeopardy, but I am being incredibly inconsiderate and putting the life of others in jeopardy as well.”

Noorhan Buttres, University of California, San Diego:

“...turning off my device completely or putting it on Do Not Disturb was one of the best pieces of advice I got from my older brother right after I passed my driving test.”

Glessilda Cabanban, University of California, San Diego:

“To this day, when my siblings and I are passengers with my parents, it always feels like they are driving to protect us. In that moment, my dad did not only make me realize how much he cared about his kids, but he taught me to drive as if I had my own ‘precious cargo.’ Now when I drive, I imagine myself having a child or toddler as a passenger; although imaginary, it’s something that I must safely protect, until I’m older and have some real ‘precious cargo’ of my own.”

Maricela Cano, University of California, San Diego:

“As a pre-teen, I would listen to my mother always tell my older brothers in her strong Spanish voice, ‘Driving is not a game! These are real cars driving alongside you.’ My mother’s strong words stuck in my head all throughout my adolescence, ‘this is not a game’... Yes, all the Mario Kart races enhanced my eagerness to drive, but my mom’s teachings brought me from the clouds and back to reality. Driving has no restart button, driving has no zero consequences.”

“Driving has no restart button, driving has no zero consequences.”

Ubaldo Ceballos, University of California, San Diego:

“The advice my aunt gave me was to never drink and drive, always to be well rested before driving for long distances or stop at a rest area when needed, seatbelts should be put on anytime the vehicle is in motion, and that there is no legitimate reason for speeding as it can lead to life changing accidents that scar people for life emotionally and physically... As she showed me her prosthetic, it made me understand just how real simple things such as drinking, not having enough sleep, or speeding can have permanent repercussions on anyone aboard the vehicle for life.”

Morgan Chandler, Texas A&M University:

“I think that the best advice you could give someone driving for the first time is to use their turn signals for everything!... Our turn signals were literally created so that we could let the world know our next move, before we make it — effectively making the whole transition run more smoothly, since all parties involved are aware of the to-be action. I know the blinker has been a step towards the greater public safety for a long time, but people...USE THEM.”

Dana Chen, Texas A&M University:

“Ever since I got my license, my dad would always tell me, ‘Don’t assume that others can drive as well as you do.’ Everyone thinks they’re a good driver. In reality, many of them are not… By having such a negative view of others’ driving, I have been able to make up for not only others’ deficiencies, but also my own (although I like to think that the fault never lies with me).”

Will Chisholm, Texas A&M University:

“Due to the extraordinarily vast number of drivers and smartphones across the United States, a solution to an issue such as this one must be convenient, simple, and cheap. Such a solution was given to me by my dad when I first started driving. Simply putting your phone in a pocket or something similar when you first get into the car where it is hidden out of sight would help nullify the desire and impulse to pick up the phone and start texting while driving. Without the ability to continuously see your phone or feel it in your pocket, the drive to reply to the text you just received isn’t as potent… Additionally, another simple task such as silencing your phone while driving would further reduce the impulse to pick it up and start texting.”

Jamie Clark, University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire:

“My mother's advice is keeping a bubble around your car. Not a literal bubble, but a figurative one. Many accidents happen because drivers are much too close to their surrounding cars, especially tailgating other cars. Everyone is guilty of this; the car in front of you is going ten miles below, and all you want is to get home after your long day of work. You continue to speed up right up to the back of the car in front of you to try and make them speed up. An accident just waiting to happen… Having a little bubble around your car may just save a lot of money, hassle, and, most importantly, lives.”

Lizbeth De Loera Esparza, University of California, San Diego:

“When I was first learning how to drive, I learned everything about getting behind the wheel by my dad. He has been the one to give me the best tips and tricks about driving, however, the best advice I have received from him is to never drive while I am under the influence of any sort... Thanks to my father’s advice, I have been able to live by what he has told me and have applied the advice to my daily life. My friends and family know they can always count on me to give them a ride safely to their homes whenever they decide to drink or consume any substances that may impair them. As a result of my sober driving and availability to drive others who should not drive themselves, I feel that I have helped keep the streets safe and am responsible for one less intoxicated- driving accident.”

Chris Dimitropoulos, University of California, San Diego:

“My parents nearly died from motor vehicle accidents themselves. My father was in an accident on his motorcycle because a man was texting instead of looking in front of him...a simple text message could have prevented me from being born or my dad [from] living his life... A few seconds [of having your eyes] off the road could lead to running a red light or hitting a car directly in front of you. It could also lead to a fatal car accident, leaving you or possibly others dead because of a text.”

Esther Butler, University of Phoenix:

“The night before I started school my mother sat down with me about what she expected from me when I was driving. The rules went as followed: 1) Leave early for wherever you are going so you are not in a rush, nothing is more important than your life; 2) Don’t drive super close to the person in front of you, that way it gives you time to react; 3) Be aware of your surroundings, look to see who is in front of you, behind you and to your sides. They may not be aware of you but if you notice them being erratic find a way away from them quickly but safely; 4) Don’t speed and stay calm. These rules have served me well so far.”

Gladys Estrada-Parra, University of Phoenix:

“The best advice someone has personally given me regarding safe driving has been to always focus on my driving and not to get distracted by my cell phone or cars driving beside me... It is in our hands to choose whether we want to be a safe driver or a reckless one. Remember when you drive to focus on your driving and do not get distracted. One distraction can change your life for better or for worse. It is in your hands!”

Kathleen Figueroa, MiraCosta College:

“Being a California native, we have a strict hands-free law for when you’re behind the wheel. This is something that I take very seriously, especially since I have a three-year-old daughter that depends on me to get her home safe… My husband and I were taking our daughter to the San Diego Zoo… As we came around a little bend in the road, the traffic in front of me was slowing to a stop. I slowed accordingly and looked in my rearview mirror. The person behind me wasn’t following suit... The man ended up striking our vehicle so hard from behind we were right next to the car that was in front of us in traffic… I got out of my vehicle, alerted the police officer and went to see if the gentleman was ok. I had to knock on his window twice for him to snap out of his shock. When he rolled down the window he still had his phone in his other hand in his lap… To this day my daughter is still scared when were in traffic or when we must make sudden stops.”

“The notifications can wait. They will be there when you reach your destination. If that man would’ve gotten this advice the accident might not have happened.”

Cristal Garcia, University of California, Davis:

“I have been told by a grieving mother that one can never be too cautious when driving… Witnessing the mother tell her son’s tragic story was extremely eye-opening. She reinforced that he had his life ahead of him and had aspirations that he had wanted to obtain. The substantial amount of pain she portrayed through her stuttering voice made me realize that I would always think of how a certain action could not only affect my future irreversibly but also the ones of those around me.”

Felipa Gay, University of Phoenix:

“I think one of the best pieces of advice that has been provided, and has since then been passed down to my daughter, is to always be aware of your surroundings… Another great piece of advice is ‘it can wait.’”

Josh Giles, Texas A&M University:

“My dad provided me with the knowledge of car mechanics and the physics involved in a collision... We discussed the importance of controlling speed to provide maximum reaction times to changing circumstances. We compared our experience to my dad’s experiences flying T-38’s in the Air Force. Altitude is your friend in the air, just as controlled speed is your friend on the road… The biggest risk reduction factor in driving is making positive choices and exercising proactive behavior. I use that experience and lessons learned to this day, to reduce my risk on the road as much as possible. I have a healthy appreciation for the speed at which a crisis can presents itself, and the ramifications of injury to those you love.”

John Granahan, California Polytechnic State University:

“My dad was about three cars back from the light, edging to squeeze through a narrow space in the hopes of making a quick right-turn. My dad has never been the most cautious of drivers, just ask our insurance agent, but he knew how to navigate the roadway. What he also knew, however, was to listen to good advice when he managed to stumble across it. At the moment of acceleration, my grandpa spoke up, ‘Whatever it is you’re thinking, don’t risk it.’ Fortunately, this story doesn’t end with any collisions, fender-benders, or scratches, and for that, I know I’m able to thank my grandpa.”

Bernice Garcia Gutierrez, University of California, San Diego:

“I am still in that phase where my dad hits me with a precious piece of driving advice at every street corner I pass. Although everything he has said is incredibly helpful, there is one piece of advice that will always be on my mind from the moment I turn on a car, and that is, ‘Your life is not the only one that matters’... Driving is a privilege that comes with great responsibility, and its important to always have this in mind when driving.”

Leighlyn Ha, University of Washington - Bothell:

“The best advice for driving safely is to always anticipate the worst outcomes and prepare for them ahead of time. By assuming the worst will happen, I mentally make plans for emergency actions ahead of time… Instead of wasting precious time thinking about what I should do, I can put my emergency plan into action to quickly avoid an accident or move my vehicle to a safer spot if a crash is inevitable.”

Rebecca Hall, Washington State University:

“‘You’re lucky,’ the EMT fire responder had said to my teammates and I as we left the scene, ‘No one ever lives – this is a shock for us, too. You’re very lucky. Take care now.’ It was not exactly advice in the usual sense of the word, but the sentiment has never left me. We were lucky to have walked away; luck has everything to do with it sometimes. These words provoked a lot of thought in me the next several months, because most do not meet an adult moose at 80 miles per hour and walk away… I have received much more practical guidance on how to drive over the years: don’t operate a two-ton machine if you are tired, always check your blind spot, watch for pedestrians, do not access your phone, follow at a safe distance…but none of those tried-and-true statements ever impacted me the way that firefighter did. I wonder if he knew the weight of those words on my driving, on my attention span, and on my risk-taking.”

David Heusel, Simmons University:

“I remember when I first learned how to drive I was given advice from a lot of people, but when I saw they didn’t follow their own advice I would ask why they didn’t follow it. I was told because they were experienced and I was first learning, but I felt this was never good enough answer. When I inquired more about this I started to see that many people agreed that I should still apply what I learn about safety no matter how long I have been driving. I believe the greatest advice that I ever received is that I should never become too comfortable with my driving skills, because that is when risky behavior becomes a habit.”

Fatima Jamal, University of Washington - Bothell:

“‘Students of Jackson High School, as you all know, we have lost three bright and valued students due to a car crash. Grief counselors will be available in the library...I hope and pray that none of you ever encounter something like this again. Please make sure to put safety first in all circumstances and drive defensively.’ Those words kept ringing in my mind as my hands trembled at the image of the former students’ deadly crash. “Drive defensively” — what do those words really mean?... Plan out your time, know the weather conditions, understand the route and where your destination is. Being hesitant and not knowing where your destination is could lead to impulsive decisions while driving that could put others at risk. Defensive driving techniques and skills allow you and your passenger to stay safe on the road without putting others at risk.”

“Defensive driving — ‘driving to save lives, time, and money in spite of conditions around you and actions of others.’”

Monica Johngiri, Northeastern University:

“When it comes to driving safely, it is always best to listen to your doubts. Operating a car is a privilege that people take for granted. Every time I get in to the car I am aware not only of myself and my capabilities, but also of my surroundings… Avoiding car accidents and driving safely requires understanding your own limitations and understanding the limitations of the car.”

Keikilani Faith Tyquiengco, University of Phoenix:

“The best advice I was given about driving safely and avoiding accidents is to always be a defensive driver and to never take matters into your own hands, even if it’s the other parties fault… We should not drink when we drive, pay attention to our surroundings, not be texting or calling when we’re on the road, drive more cautious according to what the weather permits, follow traffic signs and never drive tired. We must always be alert. Never assume that the other person sees you just because you see them and to never try to develop risky driving behaviors that can cost you your life.”

Jude Kohls, University of Washington - Bothell:

“My instructor once said something along the lines of ‘Driving isn’t a secondary activity. You aren’t listening to music…and driving. You are driving. Period.’ This concept is something that many don’t realize today, including myself. I often find myself more concerned with what the next song will be, and not with what is happening on the road around me.

“Distractions are the enemy to safe driving.”

Amy Kung, University of California, San Diego:

“I’m the type of person who can’t learn without memorizing terms, writing copious notes, and reading books thoroughly. Therefore, when I began driving under the instruction of my father, I was both confused and intimidated when he emphasized the ‘feel’ of driving. According to him, the ability to drive well and safely was correlated with having an acute sense of spatial awareness… I found that I didn’t need any notes or flashcards to drive well. What I needed was more practical experience, more exposure. Understanding the space around my car was a skill that needed to be honed. There are no shortcuts when it comes to driving safely.”

Jill Kurpershoek, California Polytechnic State University:

“When I stood up, pleading guilty to the speeding allegations, [the judge] looked me right in the eyes and said ‘You know I should be reading your obituary right now. But you’re lucky.’ Shell shocked, I stepped back and began to understand the severity of my actions. What if I had crashed going that fast? What if I’d hit someone else?”

Aaron Lee, Texas A&M University:

“Having since accrued over a decade of driving experience, I now have a better understanding of the risks associated with vehicular travel and I pride myself on never having been in a car accident to date. I attribute this largely to the guidance my mother gave me when I was learning to drive. She advised me to always be an active driver and deliberately avoid accident-prone situations, rather than being a defensive driver that reacted to conditions as they arose.”

Christopher Lien, University of California, Davis:

“Drive slowly, maintain good distance behind other cars, and be aware of your surroundings. Or in other words, always try to follow defensive driving. Being safe on the road involves more than just knowing basic traffic laws. With a driver’s license comes great responsibility to drive safely to avoid endangering others and oneself. Every driver is responsible for minimizing accident risk as much as possible.”

“With a driver’s license comes great responsibility to drive safely to avoid endangering others and oneself.”

Emma Lipkowski, Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology:

“The best advice I received is to put my cell phone on vibrate or turn it off and put it in the backseat because driving needs to be my only focus. Realistically, no matter how many times we are told not to look at our phone, don’t text, etc., it is very difficult to do… Maybe parents shouldn’t purchase automatic cars for their teenagers, but instead purchase a manual. For one, it teaches the teenager how to drive a stick shift, and it eliminates texting with both hands occupied.”

Eric Lopez, California Polytechnic State University:

“After filing a claim, my insurance informed me that I was at fault and that they were raising my premium. For the next three years, I will be charged exponentially more a month simply because I neglected to pay attention to the task at hand. Although I now have to deal with higher monthly payments and a point on my record, I have also remembered to appreciate that my carelessness did not harm myself or another soul. The advice I have received from my parents in regard to driving safely really did not register until a mishap unfolded in my life. Now, my parents’ constant reminders to pay attention to the road and avoid distractions echo in my head and seldom do I look at my phone… I learned the hard way.”

James Lovell, Texas A&M University:

“I think the best advice I received is not to turn left. Ok, that may sound impractical, but left turns account for almost ten time more accidents that right turns. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, more than one-third of all accidents occur during a turn or within an intersection… Turning left is such a bad idea that UPS actually maps the drivers’ routes so that they will not need to turn left… Not everyone drives a route that has been mapped by engineers, but if you go to the same office or school almost every day, try finding a route that minimizes left turns.”

Lorin Mack, Old Dominion University:

“My father used to say, ‘Failing to plan is planning to fail.’ I’m sure that’s a famous quote he read somewhere, although the source is unknown. I’ve applied this quote to life, as well as, driving. Making a safe driving plan means to build time into your trip schedule to stop for food, rest breaks, phone calls, or other business.”

Yincheng Mao, University of California, San Diego:

“[T]he day I got my driving license, my mom told me: stay calm, stay alert… I say my mom’s tip to myself before driving every time. It’s really helpful for getting out me of dangerous occasions and keeping me safe...”

Bailey Marsheck, University of California, San Diego:

“‘NEVER consume substances and drive. Not even a little bit. Especially as a minor.’ That was the near-commandment given by my parents, teachers and role models... The older I’ve gotten, the more I understand that driving while intoxicated is never worth the risk. While it seemed harmless in high school, with enough time I’ve seen DWI arrests and accidents change a person’s life course.”

“Just call an Uber instead; it’ll always be worth it in the long run.”

Lauren McClure, Texas A&M University:

“When I was first learning to drive, my parents wouldn’t even let me play my own music in the car. The reason for this was because they didn’t want me to pay more attention to what song was playing than what was happening on the road in front of me. They have given me a few good pieces of advice over the years, but I will always remember this one: ‘Look out for the idiots who aren’t looking out for you.’ The advice may sound funny, but it is true. No matter how hard you may try, not everyone will be on the same page as you when it comes to texting and driving. All you can do is keep a watchful eye on the ‘idiots’ and hope that sooner, rather than later, they realize the importance of putting away the cell phone.”

Aiyande McGill, Benedict College:

“The safest way to avoid car accidents is to obey all traffic signs!... You only have one life to live, so live it safely.”

Stephanie Medina, University of California, San Diego:

“[T]he best advice I have ever received about driving safely comes from my mother, which is simply to stay focused. Focus, applied in many aspects of life, is most vital to safe driving and steering clear of road accidents… [I]t is safe to say that when it comes to driving advice, mother knows best.”

Mikala Meize, Washington State University:

“The first time I drove with my dad he said to me, ‘At your age, I could tell you what the make and model of the cars behind, beside, and in front of me were’... Watching the car in front of you can help you determine the speed of traffic. It can also help you know when that car is going to change direction. Knowing the make and model of the car in front of you can help you do all the above and also determine the patterns of traffic.”

“Start to pay attention to the make and model of the cars around you, and I’m sure you’ll see a difference in your driving as well.”

Paige Myroth, Marquette University:

“When I was a freshman in high school, the entire student body was required to attend an assembly focused on safe driving… As the rest of my class and I walked outside, it was immediately clear that we were in for more than just a PowerPoint riddled with safe driving tips… Over the microphone, we heard the voice of a woman who began to tell the story behind the car and the emergency vehicles arranged before us. She was a mother. She had lost her 16-year-old daughter to a car accident… There was one sentence in particular that really exemplified her heartache and undoubtedly impacted all of those that were listening that day. She unwaveringly said, ‘Instead of buying my daughter a prom dress that year, I had to buy her a coffin.’”

Madelyne Nauman, Texas A&M University:

“While returning from College Station in the Spring of 2017, my father and I were involved in a very serious near miss accident on Hwy 6 because a person was texting while driving. At this moment I felt compelled to do something about the advice my father had given me and to promote the importance of no texting and driving...I asked my father I wanted to do a video about this topic and promote it to the masses.

“It gives me a great sense of personal accomplishment knowing I impacted so many lives by simply planting a seed on safe driving and passing along the message my father made sure I understood. From such a simple idea my video idea has been awarded the 2017 Texas Prima Award for Innovation and the TASB Risk Management Fund Award for Excellence in Risk Management.”

Destiny Omelu, University of California, San Diego:

“The first thing [my dad] told me was that when I drive a car, it is not only my car that I am driving, but also everyone else’s car as well. It is because of this that I must drive defensively. This meant that I could not go around rapidly changing lanes and performing dangerous maneuvers with the expectation that my fellow drivers would just give me the right of way and let me pass. Instead, he told me that I must drive carefully by maintaining a distance between my car and the car in front of me, allowing cars to enter my lane, and yielding to reckless drivers.”

Jessica Perez, Shepherd University:

“When I feel my eyes drooping shut, I safely pull over and reach behind my seat for a loose water bottle. I drink it slowly but steadily until I feel like I’ve got a little more energy. I get back on the road, usually no more than a minute later, a little more energized than I was and more confident in my ability to keep myself safe.”

Sheila Priscilla, University of Washington - Bothell:

“[My sister and I] were driving on this foreign road in Richmond, British Columbia, where a police officer suddenly pulled over my sister’s car. We were having trouble with the internet connection on my sister’s phone. The police officer saw my sister took a glimpse on her phone while she was driving… He explained that there is no reason that is acceptable for us to be using our electronic devices while driving, even only for a second. It does not only put us in danger but also the lives of others. The police officer’s stern advices definitely made my sister and I to realize that nothing is important enough for us to risk our lives and the life of others.”

Claire Randall, Marquette University:

“Being the youngest of my siblings, my parents had experience in teaching a new driver. It’s only fitting that the best advice I have ever gotten about driving safely and avoiding accidents came from my dad: ‘Pretend everyone else on the road is a knucklehead’... This advice is not the most technical driving advice, nor is it anything that could be found in a driver’s ed book. However, it gets to the heart of what makes a person a good driver: good drivers are careful, vigilant, and cautious of their surroundings, pedestrians, and, most importantly, other drivers in the cars surrounding them. Additionally, the advice implicit in the given advice is also invaluable: don’t be a knucklehead yourself!”

“Pretend everyone else on the road is a knucklehead.”

Joseph Rawa, University of Phoenix:

“Inspect your vehicle [like] a pilot inspects his or her plane before flight. Having a mechanically sound vehicle will give you peace of mind and avoid accidents.”

Grace Rodenberg, University of Wisconsin-La Crosse:

“A wise man once told me, ‘Always drive on the defense.’ Of course by wise man I mean Jerry, my driving instructor from sophomore year of high school. Every time we went out for a drive he would always say, ‘You can’t control other people, so you always drive defensively.’”

Jamel Rosemond, Texas A&M University:

“[T]he one scenario that stood out to me the most was [the driving instructor’s] advice for handling your car when the brakes are stuck in the locked position while the vehicle is accelerating. He gave us three alternative solutions for dealing with this situation. The first alternative was to use the emergency brake to stop the car immediately and to guide the car to the shoulder. The second alternative was to remove the keys from the ignition. Lastly, the third alternative was to shift the car into neutral. I chose the first alternative (using the emergency brake). I was wrong… The third alternative was the correct choice. Switching the car to neutral kills the engine which will stop the car from accelerating.”

“I had a misconception for dealing with brake failure and learning to switch to neutral could save my life one day.”

Peyten Sabado, South Puget Sound Community College:

“‘Give them space’: the most simple advice that has saved my life multiple times. Just this month keeping distance from the car in front of me has paid off when a log fell off a logging truck in my lane. Leaving room between you and the car ahead can be the determining factor between getting into an accident or not. Sometimes the best advice is the simplest to follow.”

Alberto Saenz, Texas A&M University:

“Regardless of what you think, there will be always distractions that might cause a car accident. According to the Texas Department of Transportation in 2017, one out of five traffic crashes in Texas were due to distracted driving. The best advice that I could give is to get rid of any distractions around you while driving...Do not take any chances. Even driving with your phone linked in hands-free mode can lead you to a car accident so try to minimize all the distractions that you know that will detract from your focus while driving.”

Genna Saia, Marquette University:

“There are so many things to remember when driving, however, the best advice I have received as, not necessarily a new driver, but a younger driver, is to never make assumptions… Always assume that if you cannot see a truck driver’s mirrors, they cannot see you. Stay a good distance away from a truck until you can see their mirrors.”

Ammar Salem, University of California, San Diego:

“My mother told me right away, ‘Whenever you are driving, always look three cars ahead to ensure that you are first to react.’ Many unforeseen events occur while on the road, and by looking ahead of the car ahead of you it ensures that you are best prepared for whatever happens.”

Hamzah Sarwari, San Diego Miramar College:

“I was involved in a life-threatening accident when a speeding driver drove into me. Since then, people have felt entitled to give me advice on driving and safety, but I don't blame them. I tried to remember all the advice I was given and not too many of them have stuck sadly, but the one that did and the one I always remember and think of when I drive is ‘everyone on the road is someone else's loved one’... So every time I am sitting in my car, I always remind myself [that] anything I do that can harm someone else is...potentially preventing a child from seeing their parents again, or a mother from seeing her child again, or someone from seeing their significant other again.”

“Everyone on the road is someone else’s loved one…”

Sam Savery-Orton, California Polytechnic State University:

“I was told when learning how to drive that the most important way to avoid an accident is to never get distracted. I do this by never using my phone, and ensuring so by putting it in the glove box when I turn on the engine, just in case I forget and accidentally pick it up.”

Amanda Scott, Marquette University:

“This past summer I was involved in a serious car accident that ended up being my fault due to me being mentally distracted while behind the wheel… Although the other driver and I walked away from the accident, both my car and the truck were totaled… Every paramedic, police officer, and bystander I spoke with that day told me how important it is to not drive distracted… Overall, there are endless amounts of great advice that can be given about driving safely and avoiding car accidents, but in my opinion not driving distracted or under the influence are the two most crucial things.”

Emily Shayota, University of California, San Diego:

“Throughout all the repetitive pieces of advice provided to stay safe behind the wheel, one piece stood out in particular as it displayed a euphonic tune: ‘Look twice, save a life.’ This piece of advice not only tells an individual to stay alert, but also demonstrates the impact of what a simple movement can have on one’s life.”

Claire Simington, University of California, San Diego:

“I always had anxiety about driving in the beginning because my father would say, ‘Cars are basically like tin cans, so you might as well drive properly because your car will not protect you in the end.’ I knew he was right because I drove everywhere with my parents and saw countless accidents along the way. I even totaled a car myself less than a year into driving due to rear-ending somebody.”

“At the end of the day, it is not my right to put another person’s life in danger.”

Chloe Slayter, University of California, Los Angeles:

“When I was three years old and learning how to ride my tricycle, my dad gave me some pretty valuable advice: it’s important to be an active rider. By this he meant that I needed to be focused on what was going on around me, that I needed to always be paying attention and always be aware… An active driver is not a distracted driver… Being an active driver also means being a defensive driver.”

Cole Sonner, Bowling Green State University:

“The specific advice I received from my mother on this topic was simply: ‘Always drive carefully even when you are stressed or late because it is better to get somewhere late than not at all.’ This piece of advice has stuck with me in many stressful situations, such as times I have been running late for a class, sporting event, or work.”

Lauren Stephens, Texas A&M University:

“It is not just about us, and it never will be. Not only is my life at risk when I am being a reckless driver, but the lives of everyone else on the roads are, too. And not can my own life or their lives be impacted from a mistake made on the road, it is the lives of everyone that they know and love.”

“That [piece of advice] took me out of my little bubble that I lived in — the bubble that made me think my actions only impacted me.”

Robin Suazo, University of California, San Diego:

“It was my first time behind the wheel of a vehicle and all I could do was overthink. What if I couldn’t brake quickly, or smoothly? How do I keep the speed constant? How do I press the pedal?! I ran these questions by my mom who tried to calm me down - and all she said was ‘Always, and I mean always, be alert on the road and check your surroundings.’ That is the most valuable advice I have received when it comes to driving safely.”

Vanessa Tang, University of California, San Diego:

“The best advice I’ve kept in mind to drive safely and avoid accidents is to drive as if a driving test administrator was sitting next to me. It keeps me alert and recalling the rules that they want us to adhere to during the test.”

Dion Thompson, University of Washington - Bothell:

“My life nearly ended when I was five years old... We just got off the 358 bus at Aurora Village. At the cross light, I knew that I had to wait for the green hand. I looked both ways and to my knowledge there wasn’t anyone there. Once it gave me the delightful green hand, I walked a bit faster than my mom down the crosswalk. Suddenly, I felt sharp claws digging into my chest pulling me back, knocking the hot air right out of me. Simultaneously, what seemed to be a million times my size, a red SUV zipped right past me… All I remember seeing was a middle-aged woman with one hand on the wheel and the other jamming her flip-phone to her left ear… For all the lessons my mom and grandmother taught me to be watchful for cars speeding through red lights, it will never be the same as being only two feet from death itself. Thanks to this experience, I am much more aware of drivers being distracted and I also take extra steps to become less distracted while driving.”

Zachary Turman, University of California, San Diego:

“Most of the advice offered includes the typical ‘be aware,’ ‘avoid dangerous drivers,’ and ‘be a defensive driver.’ But the most intriguing suggestion came from my father. One day, after we watched two people dangerously race through a crowded freeway he said, ‘Zach, if you drive like an old man, maybe you will live to be one’... Whenever someone cuts me off or I'm tempted to speed around a corner, I think of my Dad's advice and take a few deep breaths.”

“If you drive like an old man, maybe you will live to be one.”

Christy Xie, University of California, San Diego:

“Everybody is always reminded of the same important aspects of safe driving: keeping a safe distance between cars, looking for blind spots and being a defensive driver. However, before even putting yourself in that situation, you need to make sure you are awake and able enough to drive.”

Vanessa Yu, University of California, San Diego:

“‘See behind the car; see the individual, Vanessa.’ When I first learned how to drive, my father would always repeat this mantra to me. In the humdrum of traffic and muscle routine of driving, it’s easy to dismiss and forget the humanity behind the wheel. To see that there are individuals—parents, aunts, teachers, humanitarians—in each car makes a world of difference. It puts into perspective that every action of a driver affects another in a tangible way; conversely, consequences have life-changing ripples.”

“See behind the car; see the individual.”

Think you have what it takes to win our next essay contest?

Visit our Enjuris Scholarship page to see the essay question, check the requirements and participate in our next contest (deadline is January 20, 2019).