Distracted Driving

Shaye Tanner

March 28 2021

Distracted Driving

Unfortunately, almost 4,000 people die from distracted driving accidents and around 40,000 get insured. The problem however, starts with education. If we are not sharing information and educating people about the dangers of distracted driving, how are they ever going to know how to fix it? It needs to start with the schools and other influencing platforms such as social media. The more people talk about the more that people are aware of it. If you are aware of it then you are less likely to do it. You would be surprised how fast information can spread. If we use our platforms and opportunities to share and educate on the scary reality of distracted driving it could save lives

Once more people are aware and educated on this topic people will start having conversations about it. We want everyone to know the dangers so that they can prevent it. One thing that helps prevent distracted driving is the do not disturb mode on your phone. If you have an apple phone you can set it up where when your phone defects you are driving it turns off all notifications. I think phones are our biggest distraction while driving. So, if we can prevent it by changing a simple setting or putting our phone away while driving it could really help make a difference. Those text messages and notifications are still going to be there once you make it to your destination. Your goal should be to get from A to B. At the end of the day your phone will not be as important as other people’s lives.

Personally, I have witnessed so many of my friends and family be distracted while driving. Almost everyone does it. They at one time or another, look at their phone. Whether it is to change the music, or check a notification; it happens way to often. I am even guilty of it myself. What people do not realize is that it only takes one second. Once glane, One distraction can make all the difference. You never know what could happen on the roads. And, if you are distracted it makes your odds worse. It may not even be you that is driving badly, but someone else could cut in front of you or slow down, or not use their blinker etc. You paying attention is what will determine the outcome. If you are paying attention you are most likely going to ensure the safety of not only yourself, buit the other drivers around you, and anyone in your car. Don’t be selfish. Think of others and

You may be asking yourself, what steps do I need to take to help fix this problem. Well, I think small actions can go a long way. The first and simple thing you can do is reflect on yourself. See if you are one of those distracted drivers that could cost someone’s life. Start with yourself. Make goals that you won’t be distracted by things such as your phone, food, makeup, people, etc. When you are driving your main focus should be driving. If you start with yourself you may be saving not only the lives of others but your own life. Another easy and simple thing you can do is influence the people you drive with. If you are in the car with your friends and you notice they are distracted you can do something about it. You could offer to play music so they don’t have to look at their phone, offer to hold something that may be distracting them, or tell the other people in the car to be more respectful when the person is driving. It is small and simple things that could change the outcome of a situation you do not want to experience.