How to make the roads safer

You may ask, is drivers ed worth the time and the money? My answer would be absolutely! The videos and statistics shown during each session provide various ways to reduce the number of deaths while operating a motor vehicle. Drivers Ed really helps the student become more aware of their surroundings, which is essential in becoming a safer driver. From a personal standpoint, hearing stories of young adults experiencing car accidents due to their lack of attention on the road (because of texting, or operating under the influence) was extremely impactful. As a result of taking this course, I’ve been educated and informed of multiple ways to try and avoid the occurrence of any catastrophic occurrences while being behind the wheel.

Using other resources, such as Uber or Lyft, has significantly reduced the amount of drug and alcohol-related incidents and deaths as well as lessening the amount of phone usage while operating a motor vehicle. The “Hands-Free” law, prohibiting operators from using their cellular devices, has been implemented in various states around the country. Violators are fined and eventually penalized on their car insurance. First-time offenders are fined $100, repeat offenders $250 fine, and are required to complete a mandatory distracted driving education program. Those who violate the law a third time are fined $500, required to complete a distracted driving education program, and incur a surcharge on their car insurance. I believe this is a great solution to reduce the number of automobile-related fatalities. For young drivers like myself, who are typically engulfed in the ever-changing world of technology and social media, understanding these consequences can easily deter us from using a cellular device whenever on the road.

Yes, I have experienced being in a car accident. The reason for this accident was because the person who hit me and my family member was distracted by their cell phone. Not only are you endangering yourself, but you are also endangering everyone around you that is on the road. Becoming a better and safer driver takes a few important steps. You should always let your loved ones know that you are about to get on the road. Letting them know where you are, where you’re headed, and estimated time of when you think you will get to your destination. Ultimately, this may limit the possibility of receiving text messages and/or phone calls while driving.

In addition to informing family, as soon as you step foot into a vehicle you should put a seatbelt on. Regardless if you’re driving or not, putting your seatbelt should always be a priority. Drivers ed courses cut down on the number of people who get behind the wheel with little to no knowledge of how to operate an automobile which ultimately increases the overall safety on the road.