If you take a look at the hottest buzz on today’s celebrities (*cough* Britney *cough*), you might find that a lot of them have been in trouble for irresponsible driving. Reasons are usually alcohol, drugs, and just plain divided attention.

Driving drunk or simply unfocused is one of the stupidest ways to gamble with your life. This is one kind of thrill you don’t want to be in. Driving when you’re not in the condition to drive endangers not just to you but also other people. Know your responsibilities as a driver if you don’t want to end your life with just one wrong turn.

Take driving lessons. School break is one time of the year when you can enroll in a driving school and work on getting a driver’s license. Be very attentive to the driving techniques. Equal in importance is mastering road safety, and the dos and don’ts of a responsible driver.

Follow the rules of the road. A lot of accidents are caused by irresponsible drivers who don’t follow road rules. Mind rights of way and observe speed limits. Curb your rage too. If an unruly driver cuts you, there’s no reason to get back at him. You might just be putting yourself in danger.

Use hands-free connectivity. Texting while driving. Fidgeting with the audio while driving. Even shaving while driving. A lot of the things that take your eye of the road is an accident waiting to happen. So if you can put off those things until you get back on your feet, do so. Call that important? Invest on some hands-free car kits for your cellphone.

Learn from other peoples’ mistakes. There is always news on road accidents. Whenever you encounter a story on the papers, find the line which tells you what went wrong so you’ll know what not to do.

Be more careful when you have a passenger. Most responsible drivers are more conscious of their speed when someone else is inside the car. You should be, too.

Observe proper carpooling rules. Sharing a ride with friends can get rowdy so don’t encourage smoking and very loud music. Hold the alcohol until you reach your destination.