Editor:
Colourful lights illuminated the night and people were rushing to get their Christmas shopping done.
The holidays also meant more cars on the road. But with the recent snowfall, the roads were exponentially more dangerous.
I turned 16 last month and, as a new driver, this has been troublesome.
Becoming a new driver during the winter time can be very difficult. The roads are wet and icy, and since people do not enjoy walking in cold weather, there are more cars on the road.
This makes driving more dangerous than it already is and makes learning how to drive a nightmare.
One of the biggest issues I have with learning how to drive is figuring out how to steer. It’s hard enough not knowing how to keep straight, but slippery roads and black ice make it even harder. Trying to drive while you’re sliding is terrifying and is not a fun experience, especially on Oxford Street.
My tip: drive as slowly and as carefully as you can to lower the risk of sliding and crashing.
Another issue with learning how to drive right now is… other drivers.
For some reason, most drivers hate new drivers. New drivers are constantly being beeped at, forcefully passed out of impatience, and even yelled at because they are driving “too slow.”
Having this happen to you in the winter is even worse.
If some people go around you quickly, it could cause you to freak out, lose control and begin sliding, or worse, cause someone to slide into you – not to mention there is always the possibilities of drunk drivers or people who just refuse to signal.
If drivers would understand that when we new drivers drive slow, it’s because we are scared of going any faster and crashing.
So, to all experienced drivers, be patient with us.
And to new drivers, be careful out there.
Jacob Leong, Surrey
