Into a 3,000-Ton Vehicle

We’ve all seen television shows where car accidents occur, leaving many characters scrambling in distress and unable to process their emotions. Unfortunately, for a large number of people, this scenario can become a dreaded reality in just a few seconds. We have all seen the statistics of deaths from driving accidents and understood how easily it could happen to anyone of us. After all, you are getting into a 3,000-ton vehicle and putting your trust into a brake pedal. In 2018 alone, there were over 35,000 fatalities suffered by both adults and teenagers from driving accidents. Driving incidents continue to be one of the leading causes in the nation alone, but there are many different steps you can take to reduce this statistic.

As a teenager, I was required by law to complete 30 hours of driver education before being able to obtain my permit. Along with waiting an additional six months, I had to undergo fifty hours of behind the wheel training before I could test for my license. However, for those eighteen and older, none of those were requirements. For adults, they don’t have to go through driver education or hours practicing. This alone poses a threat to the well being of other drivers on the road. If teenagers are required to take a driver’s education class, why shouldn’t adults? A driver education course allows you to fully understand the rules of the road as well as the different safety precautions to take when driving. Teenagers and adults are going to be driving down the same road, so knowing the rules would ensure the safety and well being of all drivers.

Many factors can contribute to fatal accidents; many of these incidents happen because of brake failure, drunk drivers, distractions, etc.. The exact moment in which an accident occurs is always unpredictable, but there are many precautions you can take to decrease your likelihood of getting into an accident. Making sure to adjust your mirrors, steering wheel, and seat allows you to be free of discomfort. Understanding the difference between your brake and gas pedal will allow you to avoid speeding or accidentally switching the two. Checking to make sure your tires are not flat and the brake pedal is working is an extra precaution to take to avoid skidding or breaking down in the middle of the road. In 2018 alone, more than 10,000 accidents came from drunk driving. One of the main misconceptions people have about drinking is that they believe a small amount of alcohol will do more good than harm. However, even having a small sip of beer will slow down your reflexes and cloud your judgment. Driving requires you to stay sharp and always be aware of your surroundings, and alcohol will only negatively affect your quick thinking skills.

By getting into a car and driving on the open roads, other drivers are putting their trust into your driving skills. Educating yourself on the different road rules is just as important as knowing how to operate an automobile. Drive as you would with an instructor in the car. Do not text or drink while driving. Make sure all of the controls in your vehicle are working. Passengers and other drivers are relying on the idea that you understand how the basic rules of the road work, so do not let them down by driving recklessly.