In the Driver’s Seat

Driver education is designed to teach new drivers the rules of the road and the basics of vehicle operation, but the impact of such education on crash rates has been a subject of debate. It seems various groups and individuals have done studies and surveys on the efficacy of driver education programs and come up with varying results. Does driver’s ed reduce the number of vehicle crashes and subsequent deaths? The answer is: it depends on who you talk to.

A systematic review reported by PubMed Central (PMC) reported on a study that indicates that driver education has NOT been effective in achieving its main outcome, which is reducing crashes, injuries, and deaths. The study explained that this negative finding may be due to the use of ineffective teaching methods, ineffective course content, failure to understand the needs of adult learners, or not targeting the correct risky driving behaviors.

However, a 2015 study out of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln that followed more than 150,000 teen drivers over eight years found that driver’s education significantly reduces crashes and traffic violations among new drivers.

Young drivers who have NOT completed driver’s education are 75 percent more likely to get a traffic ticket, 24 percent more likely to be involved in a fatal or injury accident, and 16 percent more likely to have an accident, the study showed.

Another study in 2017 by the AAA Foundation showed the following results:

•Driver education is associated with a lower incidence of both crashes and convictions – reducing crashes by 4.3% and convictions by nearly 40%.

•Teens who complete driver education programs not only scored higher on the driving exam, but they also demonstrated greater long-term knowledge over their peers who did not take driver’s ed.

To have driver’s ed or not to have driver’s ed…that is the question. In my opinion, it is better to take it because even if it doesn’t give the desired results, it certainly can’t hurt or make me a worse driver. The statistics showing that car crashes are the #1 killer of teens, causing 33% of all teen deaths, is a huge incentive for me to enroll in a driver’s ed program.

What steps can be taken to reduce the number of deaths related to driving? The first step is to get everyone on the same bandwagon…individuals, government, civic organizations, businesses, schools, automobile manufacturers, and any other stakeholders. As Hillary Clinton stated, “It takes a village.” We must make reducing the number of deaths related to driving a high priority. There should be public awareness campaigns because roads, laws, and vehicles have changed over the years, and everyone needs to be aware of these changes. Television and radio ads, billboards, and social media can be used to reach a wide audience and reinforce the consequences of reckless driving and the importance of safe practices.

Schools should once again be required to offer driver’s ed classes for students. These classes should be taught by trained and competent teachers who are interested in helping students learn to drive. In 2023 only about 31 states require teens to take driver’s education, according to studies. Some businesses offer driver’s education, but these can be expensive for some family budgets. For those who can afford them, a reputable company probably offers better training. According to a Driving School instructor, “Driving schools offer a structured curriculum. This covers not just the basics of driving, but also the nuances and safety measures that are often overlooked in informal training. Additionally, driving instructors are trained to teach. This means they have the patience, techniques, and insights to ensure you become a confident driver. They can spot and correct mistakes that might become habits if not addressed.”

Some other excellent ideas for helping reduce deaths by traffic accidents were offered by citizens concerned about this problem. One suggested putting “how’s my driving” stickers on the rear of cars with a phone number. People can phone that number if someone is driving hazardously or even very well. That probably wouldn’t go over well with most people, but it could have the potential to help. Other individuals suggested that drivers be required to take a refresher driving course every 5 to 10 years in order to renew their license. The government and the insurance companies could offer incentives for people who pass advanced tests. People who participate in driver awareness programs could be rewarded with lower insurance premiums and maybe a points system where people can earn points for driving well. All good ideas if they could be implemented.

The sad statistics about young drivers involved in crashes show that something needs to be done. We don’t often think about this problem until it hits us personally. A few years ago, the teenager who was my mentor in gymnastics was killed in a car-train crash. We don’t know if she was distracted, or if she was trying to “beat” the train. She was killed instantly as she crossed the tracks. Her death greatly affected me, and as I drive today I am extremely cautious at railroad crossings.

I try to be conscious of being a good driver, but I know I can always improve. I do not often speed because my car alerts me to the speed limit. However, there are times when I do need to slow down. I can be a better and safer driver by making sure I drive cautiously, watching the other driver as much as I watch myself. I can drive safer by not allowing myself to be distracted by my phone, music, or a rambunctious passenger. I can be more alert to my surroundings, and follow all driving laws. I can help my friends be better drivers by encouraging them to “buckle up” and “slow down.” I can also refuse to ride with anyone who does not follow the wisdom of “texting and driving like oil and water don’t mix.” I should ask my school administration for permission to put my artistic talents to use by painting signs and posters to hang around the school. I can be a role model for others, and I can honor my parents who gave me my means of transportation by driving carefully.

We can reduce crashes and save lives, but it won’t be easy. We must take this matter seriously and work together to find solutions that bring about results. “No plan and no action will lead to no results.” (Germany Kent)