Avoiding Motor Vehicle Deaths with Safe Driving

Good afternoon,

It is with great pleasure that I submit this essay. I have worked in the insurance industry for nearly 20 years. Much of this time was spent working as a claim manager, overseeing teams of commercial liability claims specialist. Throughout the years, I have witnessed countless cases involving significant injuries, and fatalities, resulting from motor vehicle accidents. Having been exposed to many horrific vehicle accidents, I have a heightened sense of awareness while on the road.

Drivers education is significant because it teaches one the proper use of a vehicle, and roadway including lane usage, signage, and maneuverability. Such education is instrumental in reducing the number of accidents, injuries, and deaths as a result of operating a motor vehicle. Without proper driver education, accidents are imminent. There are steps that could be taken to reduce the number deaths caused by accidents: 1. Knowing how to properly operate the vehicle being driven; 2. Staying alert and being aware of ones surroundings while on the roadway, and; 3. Eliminating all distractions, e.g. texting, putting on makeup and eating. Thankfully, I have never been involved in a motor vehicle accident. However, I have family members and friends that were involved in motor accidents at some point. A cousin of mine, Abby, was involved in a rear-end accident early last year. Being aware of my experience in the insurance industry, Abby called to ask how she could “get out of it” as she had made a mistake, rear-ending the vehicle in front of her car. She went on to explain that traffic was moving smoothly when she received a text message. Abby explained that she looked down at her phone for “one second” and when she went to look up at the road, the vehicle in front of her had come to a complete stop. She applied the break but could not stop in time striking the vehicle’s rear bumper and trunk causing significant damage. The driver of the other vehicle also suffered injuries to his neck and back as a result of the impact. I kindly explained there was nothing to do but report the matter to her insurance company.

The steps I take to be a better driver, and recommended to others; is most importantly being alert at all times. All drivers should avoid distractions, especially the use of cell phones while driving. Most newer model vehicles are equipped with hands-free technology, allowing drivers to answer their phones with the push of one button or texting utilizing voice commands. Drivers should avoid going above the speed limit and maintaining speeds that are consistent with the flow of traffic. Staying on top of vehicle maintenance is another way to avoid sudden accidents, resulting in death, to ensure proper vehicle function. The use of turn signals could also reduce the number of accidents causing death. This action alerts other drivers to your planned maneuverability, signaling to other drivers to proceed with caution.