Safe Driving

What is the importance of driver education in reducing the number deaths as a result of driving?

The true meaning of the words “knowledge” and “wisdom” summarizes the answer to this question. It is through education that individuals acquire knowledge and wisdom in any field. Driver education helps reduce deaths related to driving since it provides drivers with knowledge (information) on safe ways of using the road. For example, imagine how dangerous it would be if there were no guidelines for drivers on how to use the road. Through driver education, drivers acquire knowledge of the guidelines put in place to coordinate road activities. For example, drivers get to learn about road signs. This knowledge is instrumental since when everyone follows the driving guidelines and signs as prescribed, accidents are reduced, and thus deaths related to driving decrease.

Driver education also impacts the wisdom of drivers. Wisdom in this case entails the practical know-how of using the information or knowledge gained to best a task. Drivers require wisdom to understand that when they follow set guidelines, they protect themselves and other road users. Driving education provides drivers with a lot of cautionary information on safe road use. For instance, the phrases “speed kills” and “do not drink and drive” are common in driving education. Nevertheless, the wisdom to draw lessons from this information is clearly lacking considering that many cases relating to speed and drunk driving are recorded. Wisdom also plays a big role in how responsible an individual drives.

What steps can be taken to reduce the number of deaths related to driving?

Continuous improvement in automotive technology is one action that can help reduce deaths related to driving. Autonomous car development is one technology that I have been following and I believe it will reduce the number of accidents experienced on our roads. Many accidents are caused by human behavior.  For example, people still drink and drive despite the continued caution against it. I believe that autonomous technology will continue getting better to the point where humans are merely passengers in a car. This will reduce deaths caused by irresponsible drivers since machines can hardly make irresponsible decisions. Also, technologies such as airbags that prevent deaths in cases of accidents should be encouraged.

Another step is having stricter enforcement of traffic laws. Authorities should ensure there is increased compliance with existing traffic regulations. Individuals who go against set traffic guidelines and regulations should face hefty fines and penalties that discourage such behaviors. As for compliance, speed cameras should be in plenty to ensure drivers do not overspeed. Traffic cameras should also be advanced enough to identify cars that run red lights.

Have you ever had an experience of being in car accident or have seen your friends or family members driving irresponsibly?

I have never been involved in a car accident but I have witnessed irresponsible driving. I remember last fall I requested to travel with my uncle upcountry for Thanksgiving. I cannot forget how my uncle weaved between cars as he tried to beat the deadline for our flight. We had prepaid the flight tickets and got a bit late as it took a while to prepare ourselves. This over speeding was very scary, I could not help but hold the dashboard firmly every time he made a turn. As if over speeding was not enough risk, my uncle also made a few calls as he tried to persuade his friend at the airport to try if he could do something to ensure we were not left behind by the flight. Fortunately, we made it safely to the airport and managed to catch our flight. This was irresponsible driving by my uncle. It was the first time I felt scared while traveling.

What steps can you take to be a better and safer driver as well as help others become safer on the road?

I believe that a safe driver is a responsible driver. As such, the one step I would take towards becoming a safer driver would be to become a responsible person. Before becoming a driver, education equips individuals with the necessary knowledge and skills to handle different situations while driving. As a responsible driver, I would ensure that I observe traffic regulations regardless of the situation. For instance, I would avoid over speeding and reckless behavior like running a yellow light.

Another step I would consider to become a safe driver is ensuring I avoid distractions on the road. I can achieve this by ensuring I do not have the anxiety to check my phone notifications. If I have an urgent call or emergency requiring me to use a phone, I would ensure I stop first instead of using a phone while driving.

As for helping others, I would ensure that I become a good example of a responsible driver to my friends and family. I would avoid cases such as the one described above regarding my uncle. I believe in leading by example. If I drive responsibly all the time, my friends and family can also adopt the behavior. This would help me contribute to building a community of safe drivers.