The Responsibility Factor

When you are issued a drivers license, you are also issued a great deal of responsibilities. You must continue to demonstrate your ability to drive safely on the road. If you fail to demonstrate this ability, you will be issued traffic tickets, or even have your license suspended or revoked.

A lot of responsibility comes with a drivers license. You have to drive safely, obey the traffic laws, and respect the rights of other drivers. Not only should you concentrate on your own driving, you should also be well aware of the other vehicles around you. Driving safely also includes how and where you park your car. Passengers in your car put their safety in your hands and expect you to drive safe as well.

A motor vehicle is capable of causing extensive property damage, injury, and death. You should handle any vehicle you drive with extreme caution and attention to detail. Being in control of your vehicle requires you to be familiar with how it works, including its limitations. You need to maintain your car with oil changes and tune-ups on a regular basis.

You also have a financial responsibility when it comes to driving. Every driver needs to have automobile insurance that covers any potential damages or injuries he or she causes. If a minor is issued a license, then the parent(s) or guardian(s) of that minor are responsible for any financial consequences.

Finally, safe driving requires a good attitude. You shouldn't be stressed, tired, or distracted; driving should be your only focus. You need to be both mentally and physically capable of controlling your vehicle.

There are many consequences for neglecting any or all of these responsibilities, so make sure you know what they are and comply with them.

Before you proceed, consider these 2006 U.S. driving statistics:

• 42,642 people were killed in motor vehicle collisions a 2.0% decline from 2005 (43,510).
• An average of 117 persons died each day in motor vehicle collisions—one every 12 minutes.
• 3,490 15- to 20-year-old drivers were killed and an additional 272,000 were injured in motor vehicle collisions.
• There were 4,784 pedestrian deaths.
• 41% of all fatalities were alcohol-related.

NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) Fatality Analysis 2006.