Driving is a Privilege, not a Requirement.

At the age of 36, I realize that driving is a privilege, not a requirement. Going to work everyday, taking our kids to school, driving to the gym, grocery shopping, or running errands. Driving ads the convenience of traveling from point A to point B more efficiently.

Reducing deaths is not a game of chance, it is a decision. The number of deaths that occur just on a daily basis due to vehicle fatalities, according to the National Safety Council, is an estimated 38,800 deaths, just in the United States.You risk your life, or someone else’s, each time we decide to get behind the wheel of a vehicle. It is our duty to take this responsibility each time we grab the keys and go about our daily lives. Having resources to licensed driver’s to further their education is what will save lives.

Driver related deaths can be greatly reduced by taking simple precautions. For example, always have a self check system. Gather your thoughts. Are you too tired? Are you under the influence? How is my attitude, angry, frustrated, patience level? Taking a moment to asses yourself, is a moment that can change the trajectory of your life, or for someone else. That someone could also be in your vehicle. Having a license comes with that responsibility. Additional examples such as letting other vehicles pass if they are going too fast, and keep appropriate distance behind the vehicle ahead of you. Traffic lights are another significant opportunity. At a red signal, I ALWAYS, give a few more seconds after the light changes from red to green. Making sure you look twice each way before entering any intersection can save lives. If clearance is uncertain, inch up slowly until you know the cross traffic has successfully stopped.Taking inventory of your surroundings also includes the traffic signals. Did you know that you can gauge your light but taking a look at the electronic pedestrian crossing signs? If you’re approaching a new green light, you will see the appropriate pedestrian symbol, if the signal is approaching the end of its sequence, the pedestrian signal will coordinate . Take precaution and start to decelerate.

Growing up in large city with a large amount of folks on the road that are usually from out of town, it is especially important to be a responsible driver. Luckily, I have not been in a car accident, but I have been in some close call situations that have made me realize how important is is to be an educated driver. It is sobering to realize what just a few inches or a few seconds can make when you encounter these situations. Being prepared and having a greater awareness of your surroundings is how driver’s education continues to save lives everyday. Here are a couple key things that each driver should always take in consideration when they are on the road. Always take inventory the other vehicles around you on the road, I always scan my surrounding environment.