
Name: Reyna Juarez
From: Dallas, TX
Votes: 0
Play it Safe
Play it safe
Burnt rubber is what I smelled; smoke is what I saw, blood is what I tasted, ringing is what I heard, and a blow to the head is what I felt. My five senses alerted came to understand the situation happening, yet my mind continued to betray my senses. I was caught in shock, not knowing whether to cry or scream; silently stepping out of the car, I announced, “ Get out of the car” to my three siblings and mother. Finally, seeing one of my siblings unable to breathe, I understood that we were hit. Our car was wrecked; police officers and firefighters hovered around us asking a million questions, yet all I could think about was Why? And How were we hit? We had the green light. By the time I came back from my thoughts, the police had gathered all the necessary information and released us to go home. We went, came, sat, and digested what had just happened. The following day I stepped out with a new perspective, determined to change my bad habits.
For instance, I used to change the radio channel while driving; now, I have a Bluetooth transmitter that I can easily connect to my phone and just play one of my favorite playlists. I also wait a couple of seconds to move after the light has turned green. And as much as I dislike admitting I used to speed now and then and text and talk while driving. However, now those things are meaningless; I stay within the speed limit and look at my phone only when parked. I also take a closer look at my surroundings and not just look straight ahead. I would encourage many people to change their driving habits, especially when it comes to seat belts because they save lives.
When thinking about it, car accidents are caused by everyday irresponsible actions like distractions, being intoxicated, speeding, texting, and talking. So when asked the question, “What steps can be taken to reduce the number of deaths related to driving?” I respond there is none; precautionary laws could be enforced. Like not drinking after a specific time or leaving phones at home when going out, but this is impossible because there are too many arrogant people living today who do not bother to listen. However, if I am optimistic, drivers ed could reduce the number of deaths by adding one more step, such as virtual reality glasses. The use of virtual reality glasses would show future drivers the experience of what it is like to be in an accident. With that being said, drivers ed is important because the classes explain the do’s and dont’s when driving, as well as promoting safe driving to an extent. Still, driving courses can only teach you so much that it is up to us to be responsible enough and follow those precautions.