Behind the Wheel

Melanie Vieyra

Behind the Wheel

For decades, driving has been a controversial topic due to the increase in mortality rates from vehicular collisions. Although many drivers are aware of safe driving, a multitude of evidence proves that many of these car accidents result from failure to practice safe driving methods. Therefore, it is crucial that all individuals educate themselves in practicing safe driving in order to implement a safer atmosphere for passengers, pedestrians, and drivers.

Regardless of the way safe driving is taught, incorporating these valuable lessons while driving will ultimately reduce the number of deaths. Drivers ed can be taught via a certified driving school, a parent, or any individual who carries a license. Lessons that need to be taught include not driving under the influence of a drug or alcohol, not texting and driving, and certainly not driving while in a state of drowsiness. While teaching these lessons, the number of deaths due to each of these situations should be discussed, along with the effects they cause.

Driving under the influence of a drug or alcohol has resulted in many fatal accidents, which in majority of cases result in the victim being killed rather than the individual under the influence. Not only will the incompetent individual receive charges, but they will carry the guilt of killing an innocent individual due to their careless actions. Similarly, this guilty feeling will be experienced if an accident were to happen while texting and driving or driving during a drowsiness state. The problem with each of these circumstances is that the driver is not fully aware, but rather distracted.

Although many rules have been implemented to restrict driving under these circumstances, fees for committing these penalties need to be high so that individuals understand the seriousness of the situation. In addition, before new drivers are given their licenses, or when previous drivers need to renew their license, the state should require a certificate proving that the individual has completed a short drivers ed program, which focuses on the importance of implementing safe driving.

Luckily, I have not been in a car accident, but I have seen friends and family neglect safe driving as a passenger. For instance, a habit of one of my cousins while driving is texting and constantly changing the music. Regardless of her ignorance towards practicing safe driving, as a passenger, I could always deter her from using her phone while driving. Additionally, I would inform her of the numerous deaths seen each year due to the lack of safe driving. Therefore, if she received a message that was important, I would offer to read it to her and respond for her. In addition, as a passenger, I could change the music if she desired.

With that said, in order to bolster a safe driving atmosphere, learning and implementing safe driving while on the road is crucial. Not only will the number of deaths reduce dramatically, but so will the number of accidents and arrests made.