Improving Driver Education

Improving Driver Education

By: Grace Halpin

Driver education is a must in today’s world. So many people are distracted with every day life that many do not realize the significance of driving safely. I think my generation in general takes safe driving for granted. They think it is a right and not something they have to earn. It should be earned by working hard and becoming educated on safe driving. Driver education is essential for the safety and well being of drivers on the road.

The advances in technology have introduced many new factors in safe driving. Educating people on the statistics and dangers of using their cell phone while driving is a must for drivers in this day and age. Texting and using your cell phone while driving do not mix. It seems so simple to just check your text message real quick. How long can that take maybe 2 to 3 seconds? It is longer than people think. You look down, your eyes have to focus and then actually read the text. Whether it is 2 to 3 seconds or 5 to 10 seconds it really does not matter. The person in front of you can hit their brakes and their car slows down fast. It only takes a few seconds for your situation on the road to change and your focus on driving could mean avoiding an accident. I think some good ideas to keep people educated would be an online video that is required to be watched before a person can renew their license. New drivers and folks renewing should have to take a safety test and watch a safety video geared towards cell phone use while driving. This video should include an example of how long it actually can take when you take your eyes off the road and focus on a cell phone or someone else in the car like friends or a pet. I think if people were more educated on these scenarios it could help decrease accidents on the road.

I have watched both my parents drive all my life.I have one parent who never picks up their phone while driving and the other one that uses their phone all the time in the car. It makes me nervous and uneasy when I am driving with the parent who uses their phone. I see their eyes come off the road, I can see the potential for an accident all the time. I have called my parent out on this dangerous habit and the effects it could have. It has happened, thankfully nothing too serious but my parent has had some fender benders. Even when this happens it causes anxiety for people. Insurance premiums go up, people may be days without a car if damages have to be fixed in a repair shop. It is just stress that is unnecessary if your focus just stays on the road.

I know I will not use my cell phone while driving and I will always speak up if I see it happening. Whether it is a cell phone, friends having fun, or a pet that is the distraction we need to find ways to fix the problem. Some people may not even be aware they are doing it but keep people honest, call them out if you see it happening. You could save a life.