Drivers Ed Essay Contest

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

It is reported that fatal car accidents have been steadily rising since 2010. Fatal collisions can occur from wet roads, snow, heavy winds, confusing road signs, faded lanes, potholes, driving under the influence, running a red light, reckless behavior, distracted while driving, speeding, drugs, fog, etc.  When drivers have better knowledge of what signs mean, because they are actually hints that warn you what to be on the lookout for, then it is easier to be less confused and be a smarter driver when behind the wheel.  Therefore, emphasizing the importance of driver education could prove to be pivotal in reducing the recent increase of fatal collisions in the United States. 

 

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

Knowledge is key. The more knowledge one can obtain, the less likely you are to be confused as far as what to do in a given situation. Understanding things such as the consequences of not having a seat belt, DUI, speeding, running a stop sign, running a stop light, driving while on the phone, is simple, but sometimes is enough to deter drivers from putting themselves at risk. More specifically, this can be accomplished by having drivers always have all passengers buckle up, because it can reduce the risk of death by almost half. Since driving while under the influence of alcohol impairs the ability for one to drive safely, it would be best to use a designated driver to ensure you and others arrive home safely. The saying, “Better late than sorry,”, might just save your life. If you are running late, it is not worth driving at excessive speeds and running stop signs/lights that only put you and the lives of others in danger. The reason being that the faster you drive, the less reaction time you will have, so any little mistake can turn out to be very costly. Always drive based on the posted speed limit, unless conditions determine otherwise. Also, don’t test your luck while driving. Believing you are the best multitasker is not something that should be tested while driving. That phone call, text messages, and video chat can wait. If it can’t, the easy solution would be to get off the road and bring your car to a complete stop. You never want to take your eyes or attention off the road. When driving, safety will always be the number one concern. 

 

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

I have never been the cause of an accident, but I have been involved in several accidents. The most recent one, I was hit in the rear at 40 miles an hour. It was a multi-lane, two-way street. I had slowed down for the car in front of me who was planning on making a left turn onto a cross street. Next thing I knew, I looked in my rearview mirror and saw a car behind me that did not look like it was slowing down. In a span of 2–3 seconds, I saw the vehicle getting closer and closer with no change in speed. Next thing I know, BOOM! My car went flying into oncoming traffic. When I gathered my composure, I drove my car to the side of the road. When the police arrived to make a report, the driver stated that she was on her phone moments before the collision. I ended up walking away from the accident with minor injuries. Still, things could’ve ended much worse. All because the driver felt that she needed to be on the phone while behind the wheel.  

 

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

There are many things one can do to be a safer driver. The easiest step would be to avoid being distracted while driving. This would include things like using electronic devices or eating while behind the wheel. You can also avoid racing or leave earlier (if traffic is expected) to avoid speeding, or the temptation of running stop signs/traffic signals or avoid aggressive driving behaviors. If you plan on drinking, be responsible and know your limit. If needed, call for a designated driver. During weather changes, be sure to adapt to poor weather and road conditions. Look for hints, such as posted signs that provide hints on what laws to obey or what to expect while on that specific road. If everyone did their part in obeying the rules of the road and practice safe driving, especially in dangerous conditions, then I am sure the statistics would be a lot less dismal.