Question:

What are some important key words we should always keep in mind when we drive?

Answer:

In April we touched on one of the key words we should always keep in mind when driving – responsible.  This month we will talk about another very important word – RISK.

RISK

What is “risk”? 

“Risk” is defined as when you put yourself in DANGER!!

When you take a risk, you put yourself in a position that makes it more likely you will get into an unsafe situation.  This can be something as simple as getting a ticket, or something as serious as a crash.

If you choose to take a risk, you need to remember that it is NOT just about YOU!!!  How about the passengers in your car?!?  Your parents?!?  Your siblings?!?  Your grandparents?!?  Your boyfriend or girlfriend?!?  Your friends?!?  Your teammates?!?  Other road users around you?!?  If YOU choose to take a RISK, you are also choosing to put everyone else around you at risk as well.

How does taking a risk potentially affect others? 

• PEDESTRIANS are especially susceptible to greater harm if YOU choose to take a risk!  They are not much of a match for your car!!!  As an example, when turning, always be extra cautious – if you THINK you have enough time to make a turn ahead of a pedestrian crossing at a crosswalk, STOP and let them cross first.  Why take the RISK of injuring a pedestrian over waiting for a few extra seconds?!?!

• OTHER TRAFFIC is at risk of being involved in a crash if YOU choose to take a risk!  And this crash may not necessarily even be with you, they are at risk of being in a crash with other motorists if they are avoiding a maneuver YOU made when taking a RISK! 

As an example, you should never rush a right turn at a red light or stop sign – if you THINK you have time to pull out and complete your turn before the approaching car reaches you, STOP and wait for the other car to go first.  Why take the RISK that they are travelling faster than you thought and RISK them colliding with you as you pull out in front of them?!?!

No matter what the situation, when I ask my students “Is it safe to go now?” there is only one correct answer.  Students will often answer “I think so”, this is the WRONG answer!!  The right answer is either yes or no – there is no room for uncertainty when determining if it is safe to go.  “I think so” is saying “I’M TAKING A RISK!!”.  Always ask yourself “is it safe?” when making decision while driving, and if your honest answer isn’t a definitive YES, then you are taking a RISK by going!!!

There are many different reasons that a driver may take a risk.  They can include:

• You want to have some fun
• You are late and have to go faster
• You are tired or sick
• You are under the influence of alcohol or drugs but feel OK to drive

Make sure you guard against all the conditions that could make you take a risk before you get behind the wheel of a car!!  If there is even a chance you’re going to take a risk, it’s better to not drive!  Find a ride or delay heading out – it’s never worth taking a risk!!

Be smart, stay safe – always avoid taking a risk!!