It is common knowledge that many risks exist to life and property when there are undisciplined drivers on the road. While there is a responsibility on behalf of national agencies to provide examinations during driver’s license applications, responsibility also lies with the driver, who must learn about “safety driving” and become a disciplined citizen behind the wheel.

I learned how to drive during my college days. Back then, I used an old rented jeepney provided by a friend, who only advised to be careful and drive defensively. There weren’t even traffic signs to show me the way. I had to learn more. I observed the meaning of traffic signs, obeyed traffic cops, observed disciplined driving, and made sure I did not hurt anyone on the road.

It is a privilege to acquire a driver’s license. It is also a duty, as a driver, to learn the proper way of driving. One must both obey the rules and be resourceful, it is a driver’s obligation to learn, which is lacking among many on the road today.

Road accidents happen because drivers never learned defensive driving, which simply means to give way when necessary and to give time to anticipate certain scenarios on the road. It is self-discipline and respect for others that comprise the most important components of being a good driver.

Then, there is the enforcement of traffic rules. Local government units are responsible for enforcing the laws. Bad drivers must be disciplined and traffic enforces must be well-trained and have “good breeding.”

Blaming each other offers no resolution. Self-discipline among drivers is crucial and teaching drivers a lesson through apprehensions can help, but it will never offer a final solution.

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This column greets Reuben Tampos, William Ong, Francis Redil Villanueva, Boy Villavicencio, Joseph Danoy, Jenny Gochangco, Monet Kilayko, Jim Javellana, and Danny Dangcalan./WDJ