Driver’s Safety

Amya Kirk

2020 Drivers ed Essay

07/31/2020

Driver’s Safety

Drivers ed is the single most important aspect of reducing the number of deaths as a result of driving. As the main source of drivers ed for thousands of Americans, it is imperative that these students receive proper safety education. Without programs like drivers ed, many Americans would be without the proper knowledge to safely operate motor vehicles, therefore resulting in more deaths.

In order to reduce the number of deaths related to driving, there are steps everyone can take to make the streets much safer. First and foremost, as previously stated, drivers ed is responsible for teaching thousands of Americans the rules of the road. These courses should heavily indicate the consequences of unsafe driving, as well as detailed reasoning as to why these safety measures are in place, in order to be sure everyone understands. In addition to drivers ed courses focusing heavily on safety, more local and state governments should adhere to regulations regarding use of seatbelts and devices while driving. Although many states already have laws and regulations in place requiring the use of seatbelts, as well as “hands-free” technology use, most times citizens are only given a warning, and that’s only if they get caught. Local government should be more proactive when handling these instances in order to show a united front on the importance of safe and distraction-free driving.

Personally, I have dealt with distracted drivers on many occasions. These drivers ranged from family members to friends, and each time I had asked them to put away their devices and focus on the road. Most of my loved ones have finally broken the habit of being a dangerous and distracted driver, however, some of them still remain stuck in their ways simply because they say they have never been pulled over for it.

I have taken many steps to become as safe as a driver as possible. I utilize hands-free technology equipment only when needed for things like GPS navigation. I have initiated a setting on my mobile device that puts it into a “Do Not Disturb” mode while driving so that no messages or notifications distract me from the road. I also utilize seatbelts for myself and have attachments for car seats and younger children so that their seatbelts will fit them properly as needed if I should ever have children in my vehicle. In recent years, the “Look Twice Save a Life” movement for motorcyclists has touched me personally, and I have added mirror attachments in order to broaden my view for those smaller vehicles and motorcycles. I do and adhere to all of these things in order to protect myself, my loved ones, and my community while I’m on the road.