Caution is Key

Deaths from automobile accidents are given to us in statistics all the time. However, the reality is they are human lives that are taken away from us all too soon. The fact is that driving is not a right that a person has, it is a privilege. You get your driver’s license based on the skills you have and the rules you agree to follow. Educating yourself on-road skills and having knowledge of the laws is being a responsible driver. If you take those precautions upfront, you could save your life or someone else’s. Understanding the road is imperative, but following through with wearing your seatbelt, eliminating all distractions, being aware of surroundings, no texting, no drinking, will help prevent and reduce the number of tragedies.

When it comes to driving, lead by example. We have been shown on countless occasions, so much evidence that being under the influence of alcohol or drugs can be fatal, stay consistent to never getting behind the wheel or being a passenger, when alcohol or drugs are involved.

Reinforce wearing seatbelts to your passengers, including yourself. When you are the driver, you are fully responsible. Try to stay true to the speed limit and never be pressured by other drivers, you control your car , not them. Modern technology has sped up our world so much, but through evidence, texting, talking on the phone, these are all distractions that may ruin your life or someone else’s permanently. Be conscientious of the cars around you. Be aware of all the blind spots, adjust all mirrors within any vehicle you drive. Driving is a strategic procedure that needs your full attention. Everyday and every time you get behind the wheel is a new experience, different drivers, different dilemmas, weather conditions. Keep that in mind each and every time you enter a vehicle. Avoid any distractions, loud music, too many passengers, texting, phone calls, put everything aside while driving, keep your eyes on the road and traffic signs at all times. If these precautions are considered, not a guarantee because life is not a guarantee, but it can surely help in reducing the number of deaths while driving. You can’t control the actions of others, but you can reduce risks if you take control of your own.

I have been very fortunate to not have been exposed to any motor vehicle accidents. Now that I drive, and truly understand what it entails, I am a better passenger for it. Driving can be very scary, because it is so unpredictable. Careless moments will happen, we are human. Try to handle it by offering to help, if it’s texting for them, calling someone for them, or staying focused, this then keeps the driver accountable for their actions. Accidents happen everyday, all day. It is so unfortunate, so much tragedy takes place due to other people’s carelessness, it is unacceptable. Be as good a driver as you are a passenger. The more eyes on the road the better, please drive safely.