Drive with a Purpose: Driving Should Be Exciting—Not Dangerous

“Motor vehicle crashes are the number one cause of death for 16–24-year-olds at 48.5 percent—the next highest cause, homicide, follows at 15.2 percent,” according to statistics. Have you ever experienced the loss of a loved one due to a car accident, or been in one yourself? It is heartbreaking how many people still underestimate the dangers of unsafe driving, especially among teens. As of 2023, car accidents have become the leading cause of death for teenagers—a staggering and tragic reality.

The grief does not end with the driver. Imagine the devastation families and friends experience when they learn that a simple mistake—one moment of distraction or poor judgment—took the life of someone they loved. That person was someone’s child, sibling, cousin, friend, or grandparent.

The Importance of Teen Driver Safety and the Role of Driver’s Education

Teen drivers often underestimate the responsibility that comes with being behind the wheel. In today’s world, where technology is part of daily life, it is easy for teens to become distracted. As more teens reach driving age, it is major that they understand the importance of safety on the road.

This is where driver’s education plays a key role. Many students may view it as just another obstacle before gaining the freedom to drive independently, but it teaches life-saving lessons. The first thing you learn in driver’s ed is the importance of road safety—not just for your own protection but for the safety of others. From recognizing traffic signs to understanding hazards, driver’s ed guides teens with the tools they need to make smart decisions on the road. What is taught in the classroom is just as significant as what is learned behind the wheel.

Challenges Facing Teen Drivers Today

Teen drivers face numerous challenges that increase their risk of being in accidents. Distractions like phones, peer pressure, and the influence of drugs or alcohol are among the most common. Many teens do not fully acknowledge the consequences of using their phone while driving or getting behind the wheel while under the influence.

Inexperience plays another major role. When combined with outside influences—such as friends encouraging reckless behavior—it becomes a disaster waiting to happen. Many young drivers feel pressure to act confidently, even when they’re uncomfortable or unprepared, which can put everyone at risk.

How to Overcome These Challenges

The good news is that there are simple steps that can help prevent tragedies. Start by putting your phone away before driving—it only takes 27 seconds for your brain to fully refocus from a phone back to driving. Never drink and drive; not only is it illegal for teens, but alcohol severely impairs judgment and reaction time. If you have been drinking, call a trusted adult or friend to pick you up.

If you are ever in a car with someone driving recklessly or under the influence, speak up or remove yourself from the situation. Call a trusted adult, friend, or even the police if necessary. Your life is far more important than upsetting someone who is okay with making unsafe decisions.

Personal Observation

A personal example of the dangers of reckless driving happened recently in our own community. Mason Alexander, a football player from HSE who had committed to playing at Pittsburgh, tragically lost his life in a car accident in March 2025. After attending a party, Mason got into a car with a friend who had been drinking. His friend, a juvenile, was speeding at over 100 mph when he attempted to pass another vehicle and lost control, swerving into oncoming traffic and crashing into a tree. The car caught fire, and Mason did not survive.

This accident did not just take Mason’s life, it shattered the lives of his family, friends, and teammates once they had found out. The driver was sent back to juvenile detention, and many lives were changed forever. Though I did not know Mason personally, it was clear that he was deeply loved by those around him.

Actions We Can Take

To promote safer driving among teens, we must be proactive. We need to encourage young drivers, be patient with them as they learn, and provide guidance when they struggle. Emphasize the dangers of reckless driving, and support the driver’s education programs that teach practical skills and safety awareness.

By spreading awareness, teaching responsibility, and offering support, we can help ensure that driving becomes what it is meant to be: a path to independence and excitement—not tragedy.