Steering Towards a Safer Future

Driving is often seen as a rite of passage and an exciting milestone for teenages, symbolizing independence and freedom. However, many of us fail to fully grasp the significant responsibilities and risks that come with this privilege. According to recent data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, motor vehicle crashes remain the leading cause of preventable death among teens in the United States. Understanding the responsibilities of driving is not just about following rules– it’s about protecting lives and ensuring safer roads for everyone.

Driver Education is a very important factor in shaping responsible drivers. By teaching young drivers about the risks of distracted and impaired driving, as well as equipping them with essential skills for safe vehicle operation, driver education plays an instrumental role in reducing fatalities. There are many families who have not dedicated time to learn the risks and responsibilities that come when driving. Which is why driver education should be taught in more schools. Research from organizations like NHTSA indicates that young drivers who complete formal training programs have lower crash rates compared to those who do not. Many people might not understand the importance of wearing a seatbelt. Others just simply do not think about that their reckless driving does not only affect them but it affects others. Many families are destroyed every year due to losing a loved one because of somebody else’s actions.

There are many steps that can be taken to reduce deaths related to driving. One of the most important ones is improving driver education programs like I had stated before. Educational programs do not only teach an individual how to drive a vehicle but it also teaches them how to drive safely, risk management, and emergency responses. Another huge problem while driving is the use of phones. There are technologies that prevent texting or block calls while the car is moving. Distractions, especially from mobile phones, are a leading cause of accidents. Having more stuff like automatic braking and lane-departure warning can help reduce distractions and improve road safety. Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs remains a major contributor to fatal accidents. Strengthening laws, including lowering the legal blood alcohol content limit and using sobriety checkpoints, can discourage impaired driving. Driving under the influence has become more common in teenagers leading to not only putting themselves at risk but also others.

Fortunately I have never been in a serious car accident and I am very responsible and cautious just as my family. However, this school year along with last year I have lived through the passing of some peers. One of my teachers once told my class that when we graduate many are going to pass away and that some might not even reach the age to get married. When he said that, I thought to myself that it was unrealistic and in my head we were all going to grow up and become Facebook friends. That was until I heard of an accident a classmate of mine had, and unfortunately he was not back. With time two more accidents happened and again neither of them came back. Even though I did not lose someone close to me I could feel their absence in the room. Seeing their empty chair in the classroom gave me chills and made me think of the things that could’ve been done differently. I witnessed my community mourn multiple young and loving people. My community lost a friend, a boyfriend, a brother, a sister, a girlfriend, and a student just for one mistake. It is heartbreaking to see young people leave this earth knowing that they had their whole life ahead of them and that things could’ve ended differently.

We might not be able to control other people’s actions but we certainly can control ours. To be a safer driver I do the most that I can to be educated about my car but also on how to act in certain situations. It is important to always keep a good composure especially when there are crazy and angry drivers. I have learned that it is better to pull over and let out a cry instead of driving with tears in your eyes. The reality is that even small things like pulling over to let out a cry can save your life. Most importantly to always remember that my actions do not only affect me but also affect others and that one small mistake can make a big difference.

Driving is not only about following rules but also caring for others. The more one knows the better. Having a car and having the privilege to drive is a huge responsibility that one should take seriously. With concerted effort and commitment to driving responsibly, we can significantly reduce the number of lives lost on the road, making our streets safer for future generations.