Follow the Rules, No Matter What!

McKenna Abbiss

When it comes to reducing driving-related deaths, people are desperate for a solution. However, if the drivers who were allowed behind the wheel took drivers education (or who were a little more educated when it comes to matters related to driving), there would be significantly less driving-related deaths because of the fact that the knowledge they obtained encouraged them to make better choices, such as choosing not to text and drive. However, drivers education is not the only step that can be taken in order to ensure safety on the road. Some of the other steps for driving safety include encouraging all the car’s occupants to wear a seatbelt, not having alcohol or other inhibiting substances before driving, and being keenly aware of your surroundings when driving. These steps (as well as many others that were not mentioned) will increase the likelihood of a safe drive from place to place rather than a disastrous one.

Personally, I have not had many experiences with car accidents; however, I occasionally come across a video of accident compilations and I become absolutely horrified with what I see: cars smashing into each other with glass flying everywhere, people losing control of their vehicle in icy road conditions, trucks toppling over and creating a mess. I hope that I never have to experience something as drastic as a car accident, but accidents can happen to anyone, including me. However, in order to prevent an accident and keep others safe, I can pay attention to what is in front of me rather than what is in my hand at the moment, whether it be a phone or something else. In addition, I will require all my passengers to wear a seat belt when I am driving. I will refuse to drive with drunk passengers, especially since they can become a major distraction to the driver. After all, I do not have to be the one who is drunk in order to get in an accident. Lastly, I will strive to encourage others to abide by the same rules. Of course, they make their own choices when it comes to driving; however, I do not want to be in a car whose driver does not wear a seat belt or who participates in texting while driving. If I must take a ride in their car (due to my situation at that moment), I will still follow the rules as much as I can even though everyone else around me may not be following them.