With winter weather fast approaching, all drivers need to be aware of the dangerous, icy conditions ahead. Specifically, our young student drivers need to take extra caution. This is because, for many students at Lakeview, this may be their very first winter behind the wheel. 

There have already been conflicts in the school parking lot this year. Even without any poor weather, things can be chaotic. Issues persist despite the guidelines and safety precautions taken and created in the Lakeview High School parking lot. 

A Lakeview Student who has chosen to remain anonymous states, “At the beginning of the year I was involved in an accident in the school parking lot. I got hit by a car which failed to stop at a stop bar. With winter coming up, it is nerve-racking to see others driving. Having to slam on my brakes, or swerving away from cars who are not paying attention is scary with the winter weather. When the roads ice over it could be even more dangerous for me to prevent an accident due to ice. Especially for younger drivers, I think it is important to be aware of your responsibility as a driver as well as to make smart decisions to keep others safe. Taking in another driver’s safety is important, especially with upcoming weather.”

Following rules and paying attention is vital, especially now, and can save lives; not to mention, the hassle of having to contact any insurance companies or parents can be avoided. 

I continued my research by speaking with a teacher here. I asked Jenna Hogue, a 10th grade English educator, about her thoughts on whether her experiences have proven our students to be promising young drivers. 

Hogue answered, “I would find that our students are cautious for the most part. All of our students should try to be extra cautious coming in and out of our parking lot. Stay aware of others.”

Continually, I questioned her on her own encounters with the cold season.

“I personally hate driving in the winter. But, it is a part of living here that we all must deal with, ” Hogue said in response.

It can be observed through her words that she might not love the winter weather, but at least she is aware of the precautions that need to be taken by younger, less experienced drivers especially. 

As a student driver himself, 11th-grade Lakeview High School student Tristan Tsai provided another perspective on driving in the winter season. 

I asked how it has affected him, and he responded, “Each morning I have to get up earlier so I can start my car and let it run for at least five minutes. Winter weather does not really affect my driving. I would like to think I am a good driver, considering all of the guys in my friend group voted me the best out of everyone else. The parking lot does seem more hectic because snow tends to cover mirrors and windows, which does not help when everyone already has enough trouble backing out of their spots.”

Of course, there are times when accidents happen. You may do everything in your power to keep from engaging in a crash, but sometimes they just cannot be avoided, and you have to do your best to work through the aftermath. All you can do in scenarios like these is meant to be accomplished before you even put your car in drive. Strap down your seat belt and put down your phone. These precautions can make a huge difference. Take all of this into account and stay safe, Lakeview!