Safe Driving Saves Everyone

Irresponsible
driving affects more than just the driver. In fact, it affects
families, friends, coworkers, and neighbors. Unfortunately, even I
have been directly affected by this problem as two people in my
family got into car accidents because they were driving under the
influence. One of those individuals ended up in the hospital in
intensive care and went into a coma. Thankfully, they woke up, but
this story highlights the hard truth that drinking and driving can
cost someone their health and their ability to do everyday things
that we all take for granted. 

The
second person in my family was not as lucky. They were intoxicated
and coming down a hill without their seatbelt on. As they were
turning, the car rolled over, and unfortunately they didn’t make
it. Drunk driving cost them their life. However, drunk driving does
not only affect the victim, it affects all the people who are left
behind as well. That family member left behind their children, their
parents, and their community. These people lost someone they truly
cared about all because of one night. Drunk driving is a choice and
people need to be made aware about the magnitude of this issue.  

While
drunk driving is definitely a danger, any form of distracted driving
poses a threat as well. In my drivers ed class, we had a lesson on
that specific issue and watched videos about taking driving
seriously. Driving while eating, grooming hair, or putting makeup on
risks hurting others and is completely inappropriate while on the
road. Driving is not a game. We also had a socratic seminar type of
discussion, where we shared about our own friends and family who have
been affected and read newspaper clippings on different road
accidents. Many people were frightened at the horrific and traumatic
experiences of those who died due to distracted driving. That is why
taking drivers ed classes is so essential because they warn
students of how dangerous driving can be and remind them that some
actions have consequences that are simply irreversible.

Therefore,
since this issue has such severe effects on human health and life,
people need to be aware that this reckless behavior can dramatically
hurt others. If students and the younger generation can create a
culture that discourages distracted driving, then roads will be
safer. A lot of people who text and drive believe that it is not a
big deal and that nothing will happen to them, which is similar to
people who drink and drive. People should remember the short, but
powerful phrase, “it can wait,” because accidentally killing
someone and going to jail over something so insignificant such a
simple text is a loss to society. Any citizen hurt in a distracted
driving accident will no longer be able to provide for their families
or provide their talents to the world. This problem is avoidable and
I feel the way I can most efficiently address it is as a teenager is
to spread the word.