The Law of the Road

The Law of the Road

Driver education is a crucial factor in reducing the number of car-related deaths and accidents. In these crashes, most of them could have been avoided by using the lessons taught in the classes. Many crashes are among people who illegally drive and thus have not attended driving school or have been professionally taught how to drive an automobile. Common mistakes like not knowing traffic signs or knowing what the lines on the road mean are taught during driver education. Being more knowledgeable about the road and its laws prevents fewer fatalities. Paying attention to the content of the course is vital for staying safe.

In most instances it is not you who is going to make a mistake, it is going to be someone else. Whether that other driver is intoxicated, on their phone, or just not paying attention. I believe to reduce the number of deaths there should be mandatory defensive driving courses. These extra classes would primarily focus on how to avoid or lessen the impact of car accidents. One of the main concepts would be how to be aware of the surroundings such as how to identify potentially dangerous drivers. By recognizing drivers they would have time before an accident to switch lanes or get off the street. The classes would provide situations and teach students how to handle potential tragedies. Driving school usually consists of learning how to drive, what street signs are, and traffic laws. Although I believe these concepts are essential, driving schools should also teach young drivers how to be prepared for accidents. These classes will prevent accidents or at the very least teach drivers how to make life-saving decisions.

About a month ago I almost lost one of my closest friends in a car accident. The other driver ran a red light and t-boned my friend. Fortunately, he did not suffer any major injuries but the crash totaled his car and the other man ran away from the scene. It made me realize how life can be taken away from you in a second. Waiting a couple of seconds after the light turned green would have prevented the accident. Approximately six million lives are lost to car accidents with the highest fatality group being ages 16-20. This is mostly due to the group’s inexperience in driving. More attention to driving safety would drastically reduce the fatality rate.

As an individual, I can simply obey the traffic laws that are meant to protect us. Another thing I can do to become a safer driver is to look back on what I learned at driving school. If I see anyone who appears to be under the influence I can call them an Uber. For helping others I can spread awareness on defensive driving and encourage them to take classes. I can also share and repost drinking and driving ads on social media and use my platform for good. The help a single person can do can end up saving a life.