Drivers Education saves 42,514 Lives

42,514 people. Fenway Park can not even hold that large of a crowd. Nebraska’s universities and state colleges combined have a lower enrollment than that number. Yet 42,514 Americans died from motor vehicle crashes in 2022. 42,514 people should not have to die each year in order for us to figure out how to keep our roads safe. Drivers Education is important because it limits death on the road and helps drivers build their confidence.

I remember thinking driver’s education class was boring and pointless. The last thing I wanted was to give my weekend up to go take a quiz, watch videos, and drive. Looking back, I am thankful I had someone to educate me about driver safety. Driver’s education is crucial because it allows drivers to develop practical driving skills and learn safe driving techniques. Multiple studies show that teens who have not participated in drivers education courses are more likely to get into a car crash than their peers who have taken a drivers education course. I would not have gained confidence on the road if it weren’t for the experience I had during driver’s education. Driver’s Education benefits everyone because it prepares you to handle all situations on the road, and it even gives you the power to save lives through your knowledge of driver safety.

This brings us back to the shocking number of 42,514. One of the best things we can do to honor these drivers’ lives is educate others about being safe on the road. The most important way to save your own life while you drive is by wearing a seatbelt. 50% of motor vehicle deaths include drivers or passengers who were not buckled up. Life is too precious to be put at a risk of death that could be easily avoided; drive safe and buckle up. Drivers are also responsible for the lives of others while on the road. Drivers should pay attention to the different traffic laws set by their state. Laws are not rules meant to be broken; they are statutes used to keep everyone safe. When you are about to drive, remind yourself to never speed, never text and drive, never drive without a license, and most importantly never drink and drive. Breaking these laws can cause consequences anywhere from a traffic ticket to ending up in jail to ending a life and more. These consequences are not worth it. Before you drive be mentally prepared for anything that could happen on the road.

No driver expects to get into a car crash. The most experienced and educated drivers are still at harm out on the road because of others carelessness. Last February I woke up to the most horrible news that a couple of dear family friends had been hit head on by another driver who was attempting to commit suicide. Our friends were some of the lucky ones; they survived the crash and made quick recoveries. The driver of the other car, however, passed away. This accident really showed me how anyone at any moment can be caught in a car crash. I never expected an innocent, young couple with two little boys at home to be put in a situation where they were lifelighted and in critical condition because of the carelessness of another driver. All I can think about since the news of their car crash is how I wish my friends and the other driver would have been more educated.

I used to have zero idea that “phantom vehicles” were a thing. Phantom vehicles are cars who do not have headlights or taillights on during the night hours, making them impossible to see. Because the driver who hit my friends was attempting suicide, he turned off all of his lights and started speeding in the wrong lane. I wish more than anything that my friends were more educated about phantom vehicles and prepared to be defensive drivers. I can only imagine the pain it would have saved them and their family. Driving at night presents a whole new level of danger. When you drive at night, have an extra watchful eye and look out for phantom vehicles, animals, and careless drivers.

“I can’t see out my window,” I was thinking as I turned right on the gravel road. I reached down to turn on my defrost and the next thing I knew I was in the ditch. I am scared from this experience but it has made me think twice about keeping my eyes on the road, even when no one is coming. To become a better driver I can keep my eyes on the road and not look down at my phone or around at other distractions. I strongly encourage all other drivers to eliminate all distractions while they are driving to ensure themselves and others ultimate safety. Even if you think no one is going to be negatively affected by your actions; it is always better to be safe than sorry. Whatever is tempting you to check your phone can absolutely wait. Your life and the lives of other drivers are more important.

My heart breaks for the 42,514 drivers or passengers who die on the road each year. Death affects more than these 42,514 souls, it affects sons, daughters, parents, friends, spouses, first responders, and so many more people. Before you decide to drive, pull on your seatbelt, and remember, driver’s education saves lives.