Learning to drive a standard transmission can be a useful skill to have, especially if you plan on traveling or driving outside of the United States where manual transmissions are more common. Here are some reasons why you might want to consider learning to drive a standard transmission:

1. Greater control: With a manual transmission, you have more control over the car's acceleration and speed. This can be especially useful in situations where you need to slow down quickly, such as when driving on steep hills.
   
2. Fuel efficiency: In general, cars with manual transmissions tend to get better gas mileage than automatic transmissions. This can be especially beneficial if you're looking to save money on gas.
   
3. Lower maintenance costs: Manual transmissions are generally simpler than automatic transmissions and have fewer components that can break down, meaning they may have lower maintenance costs over the long term.
   
4. Flexibility: Knowing how to drive a manual transmission can make it easier to rent cars or borrow a friend's car if it has a manual transmission. It can also be useful in emergencies if you need to drive a car with a manual transmission.
   

That being said, there are also some reasons why you might not want to learn to drive a manual transmission. For example, it can be more physically demanding, especially in heavy traffic or stop-and-go situations. It can also be more difficult to learn initially, and it may take longer to become comfortable driving a manual transmission.
Ultimately, whether or not you should learn to drive a manual transmission depends on your personal preferences and needs. If you're interested in learning, consider taking driving lessons or finding a friend or family member who can teach you. If you don't think you'll need the skill, then there's no harm in sticking with an automatic transmission.

Defensive driving involves being aware of your surroundings and anticipating potential hazards while driving. Here are some tips to practice defensive driving:

1. Stay alert: Pay attention to your surroundings and avoid distractions such as texting, talking on the phone, or eating while driving.
2. Keep a safe distance: Maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you to allow for sudden stops or swerves.
3. Check your mirrors: Make sure to check your mirrors regularly to be aware of vehicles around you.
4. Use turn signals: Always use your turn signals to let other drivers know your intentions.
5. Obey traffic laws: Follow traffic laws such as speed limits, stop signs, and traffic signals.
6. Avoid aggressive driving: Avoid tailgating, cutting off other drivers, or engaging in other aggressive driving behaviors.
7. Be prepared for the unexpected: Be prepared for unexpected situations such as bad weather, road construction, or other hazards.
8. Maintain your vehicle: Regularly maintain your vehicle to ensure it is in good condition, including brakes, tires, and lights.

By practicing these tips, you can reduce the risk of accidents and increase your safety while driving.  Tulsa driving school is the best place to learn safe, effective driving skills.