Deeper Drivers Education, save one

34, 000 deaths a year caused by car accidents. On February 13, 2022, one of those bodies belonged to my little brother. Two months before Brenden Blaze Smith Scott was about to celebrate his 21^st birthday he took his last breath as his car struck a pole and rolled vigorously in flames. Luckily no one else was involved in the accident but that does not mean he was the only victim. Tons of people lost a part of themselves that day and I was one of the first to do so. Seven years old my teacher calls me up to the office. I was being sent home early because it was time. My brothers were coming. In was about to be the best big sister I could be to two little boys born April 10^th, 2001. Although I am a mother myself now, the day they were born was the day I felt the unconditional love that you only hear a mother speak of.

Growing up neglected the three of us bonded together for survival, strength, and hope and we were as close as siblings could be.

Age got to us and by the time I was married and out of state my brothers began their own lives. They grew into men quickly hovering a foot above my 5-foot five self. Jovan, the elder twin by two minutes moved to Hawaii after high school. He was a surfer, and it was where he belonged. Brenden decided to move with his dad to Texas to pursue his education majoring in engineering and mathematics.

All and all we were trying our best even from three different time zones we stayed close. That is until the youngest of us decided to test the limitations of invincibility. A battle in which he lost. While Brendan was the smarter of the three, he still was young, and experience works hand and hand with education when behind the wheel. Our lives shattered that day. Over a year later I can say I have been in four accidents with motor vehicles. Two my own fault, and two and the hands of others. Constantly I am haunted by the reminder of the luck I carry having walked away from those accidents with minor aches and bruises. 34,000 people a year cannot say the same.

Yes, accidents are called that for a reason. No one wakes up in the morning with the idea to crash the car, but it does not stop it from happening we can only take measures into our own hands to take steps and prevent accidents from happening. Who knows, had my brother gone hone earlier to ensure he was awake on the drive knowing fatigue was the cause of 57 percent of accidents a life could have been saved. If we educate drivers earlier, and more in-depth we can assume that such tragedies can be avoided. Education has always been a powerful tool for societal transformation, empowering individuals with knowledge and skills that can positively impact various aspects of their lives. When it comes to road safety, education plays a crucial role in shaping responsible and conscientious drivers. By equipping individuals with comprehensive knowledge about traffic rules, defensive driving techniques, and the consequences of reckless behavior, education can be a catalyst for promoting safe driving habits and reducing accidents on our roads.

Education fosters awareness and understanding of traffic rules, regulations, and best practices. By educating drivers about the importance of obeying speed limits, yielding to pedestrians, using turn signals, and maintaining proper following distances, individuals develop a deeper understanding of their responsibilities on the road. This knowledge empowers them to make informed decisions and take proactive measures to avoid accidents. Education provides drivers with valuable insights into defensive driving techniques. Through educational programs, drivers learn how to anticipate potential hazards, identify dangerous situations, and respond appropriately. They become adept at scanning the road, maintaining situational awareness, and applying defensive maneuvers to avoid collisions. By instilling these skills, education empowers drivers to proactively mitigate risks and prevent accidents before they occur. Education enhances drivers’ ability to perceive and assess risks accurately. By learning about the consequences of reckless behavior, such as speeding, distracted driving, or driving under the influence, individuals gain a deeper appreciation for the potential dangers they pose to themselves and others. This knowledge enables drivers to make conscious and responsible decisions, choosing to prioritize safety over convenience or momentary distractions.

Education can also address the emotional aspects of driving, such as road rage. By emphasizing the importance of emotional intelligence and self-control, educational programs help drivers manage their emotions on the road. They learn techniques for reducing stress, resolving conflicts peacefully, and maintaining a calm demeanor in challenging situations. This focus on emotional well-being contributes to a safer driving environment, reducing the likelihood of aggressive behavior and potential accidents.

Education is not a one-time event but a lifelong journey. Encouraging drivers to embrace continuous learning and staying updated with evolving traffic laws, safety regulations, and technological advancements ensures they remain informed and adaptable. By promoting a culture of lifelong learning, education empowers drivers to integrate new safety practices and make informed decisions that align with the changing dynamics of road safety. Education is a powerful tool that can positively impact drivers and promote accident prevention on our roads. defensive driving techniques, risk perception, and emotional intelligence.

As I reflect on the tragic loss of my beloved brother, Brenden, I am reminded of the profound impact that education can have on preventing accidents. The pain of his absence serves as a constant reminder that no family should have to endure such a devastating loss. The staggering statistics of 34,000 deaths a year caused by car accidents highlight the urgent need for comprehensive education on safe driving practices.

Brenden’s untimely demise was a harsh awakening for me, emphasizing the importance of education in shaping responsible and conscientious drivers. It was a painful realization that accidents do not discriminate; they can happen to anyone, regardless of age or intelligence. Despite Brenden’s intelligence and potential, his life was cut short due to a lack of experience and awareness behind the wheel.

With a heavy heart, I share my own experiences of being involved in four accidents since Brenden’s passing. Although I was fortunate to escape with minor injuries, those incidents served as stark reminders of the fragility of life and the significance of education in preventing further tragedies. Each accident shook me to my core, reinforcing the importance of proactive measures to ensure the safety of myself and others on the road.Education in road safety empowers drivers with the knowledge to navigate the complexities of traffic regulations and best practices. By instilling an understanding of the importance of adhering to speed limits, yielding to pedestrians, and maintaining proper following distances, education equips drivers with the tools to make informed decisions. It cultivates a sense of responsibility and encourages proactive measures to avoid accidents.

Moreover, education should not be limited to a one-time event. It should be a lifelong commitment to continuous learning and adaptation. Staying updated with evolving traffic laws, safety regulations, and technological advancements ensures that drivers remain informed and adaptable. By fostering a culture of lifelong learning, education enables drivers to integrate new safety practices and make informed decisions that align with the ever-changing dynamics of road safety.

In conclusion, the loss of my dear brother Brenden serves as a constant reminder of the urgent need for comprehensive education in promoting safe driving habits and preventing accidents. The pain and grief I carry in my heart motivate me to advocate for change, to ensure that no family has to experience such a devastating loss. Education is the key to transforming our roads into safer spaces, instilling responsible driving habits, and cultivating a culture of awareness, empathy, and proactiveness. Let Brenden’s memory serve as a catalyst for change, pushing us to prioritize education and create a future where accidents become a thing of the past. Together, we can make a difference and save countless lives.