Now that you have passed your driving license and have a car of your own, I can guess how excited you are. I understand your pride and your satisfaction.

But there is nothing harmful in reminding you that driving is an act of responsibility. Too often this point is sadly overlooked. And, as you know, irresponsible driving can cause the worst to happen to you and to others.

In Mauritius we are fast developing an attitude of « fini conné, fini conné » after following a training course for a short period of time.

Taking training lessons in driving for some weeks, getting to know the rudiments, sitting for an examination, oral and practical, does not necessarily make of you a driver, my friend. Just like following a course in computer for two months does not make someone a master.

The obvious thing is to get adequate practice, possibly with someone experienced till you really get familiar enough with all you need to know and understand about driving. And when you are driving.

I know how great a feeling it is when you are new at it. Please refrain from showing off. The temptation will be there to be noticed. Showing off is hardly necessary. You shouldn?t think that it is always easy to impress everyone these days.

Have your mind focused on driving rather than having it in the clouds. Forget yesterday?s troubles and tomorrow?s worries. Clear all cobwebs from your mind. Banish the idea of calling your friend or relative or anybody special on your mobile. Unless it is urgent.

And common sense would require that you stop your car for a few minutes if you have to make a call.

I resent drivers who are busy day-dreaming instead of doing their job. There is a time for everything. A time for daydreaming. A time for driving.

It takes a split second for something untoward to happen. And when it happens, the consequences can be far-reaching.

Just because Hrithik Roshan was driving fast in one of his films, you don?t have to imitate him. Within the next few seconds, the film star may still be alive to enjoy life, you may not.

Traveling with friends is a good thing. You have someone to talk to, to crack jokes, to tell stories or spicy anecdotes. However, I happen to know young drivers who get so involved and excited about an on-going conversation that they lose sight of the fact that they are at the driving wheel. In neighbouring Reunion island bus travelers are warned that it is strictly forbidden to talk to the driver while he is on duty. I find this a very sound policy.

Some people like to listen to music or to a radio programme during their trip. This may be relaxing. But it may also happen than music distracts your attention and cause you to get so engrossed that you tend to lose your concentration. So make sure that you know when it is appropriate for you to listen to music and when it is not.

Be considerate. Think of other people on the road. There are so many accidents these days that preventing one more to occur is important. Carelessness can cause untold grief.

One last word. Think twice before giving a lift to anybody. You see, life has a knack of reserving certain surprises, certain incredible things to those who are generous and kind-hearted.

Suresh Ramphul