Driver Education Initiative 2020: In the Driver’s Seat

Driver Education Initiative 2020:

In the Driver’s Seat

Driving is a dangerous game. We put the fate of our lives into the hands of those we share the road with. These by-passers could be under the influence of drugs and alcohol, be side tracked by a cellular device, or lose control of their vehicle at any moment. The reality that most states allow those of the age of 16 to be brought into this “game” is also frightening. Teens are easily distracted individuals and with their lack of experience on the road, they too can play an immense role in car fatalities.

The number of deaths associated with driving is unbelievable to the average person. It has been statistically proven that 34,000 people die each year due to an incident related to driving. This number is more than the combined number of deaths associated with the wars of Iraq and Afghanistan. This statistic conveys the fact that driver education is an important aspect that needs to be included throughout one’s driving career. In order to reduce this large number of deaths, on top of the learners permit test, I believe it is only right to implicate a driver’s safety test every 5 years after receiving a license. This will ensure that the rules of the road are not being forgotten about as one ages and will create a sense of being more cautious about one’s surroundings to those that are in the driver’s seat.

My first-hand experience with being involved in a roll-over accident has taught me the importance of driver’s safety. While I was not in the driver’s seat at the time I have learned to take into consideration who you trust to drive and the mental and physical condition they are in at the time. I have learned the importance of obeying the regulated speed limits, as well as, paying attention to road conditions. The significance of a seatbelt is also highly underrated. Without this tool that people take for granted daily, I would not be alive today and I do not think that the average driver understands how much a seatbelt can impact their life. My exposure to this incident still affects the way I drive today. I follow all of the laws of the road to ensure that I make it safely from point A to point B and I have become more guarded with those that I allow to drive while I am in the passenger seat. My background in reckless driving is also extended to my family members. I witness them going over the speed limit, adjusting the radio, or texting while driving constantly. While I have shared with them my experience of a car fatality I have not been able to break through to them; yet, I continue to preach the importance of driving with a clear mindset and no distractions hoping one day to make an influence on their habits.

To prevent incidents like mine from happening, there are necessary steps that can be taken before pulling out of a parking spot to decrease the chances of a driving fatality. For example, before putting the car into gear, one can adjust their headlights, drivers seat, and climate controls to limit distractions while driving. They can also verify that their windshield wipers are working properly, as well as, check the car’s oil, and make sure they have enough gas to reach their destination. If these precautions are taken before beginning the adventure, I feel that the casualties related to driving will be decreased and the roads will become a safer environment for those involved.