How To Reduce Driving Deaths

Every year, thousands of people are killed while driving, whether it be because they were under the influence or simply not paying attention. There are several steps that can be implemented to reduce this number, and we must take action immediately. Driver’s Education is the first step, but informing people of the risks they are taking while driving is also very important. People need to be informed about the dangers of cell phones and inebriation while driving. Most people have themselves been in some sort of accident, or had a family or friend be in an accident, and can relate to the need for better education. People must also hold their friends accountable so that when they see a friend or family member driving irresponsibly, they can put a stop to it.

Driver’s education is incredibly important. Considering that it’s a teen’s first introduction into the world of driving, the way that it’s presented is very important. Driver’s education makes drivers more aware, showing them all of the risks that come with being in a car. If the Driver’s Ed is engaging enough, teens will be able to retain all of the information from it, and quickly recall road laws when needed. This leads to a reduction in deaths because everyone knows the laws that are supposed to be followed.

There are many things that can be done in order to reduce the number of driving-related deaths each year. The first step begins with Driver’s Education. Driver’s Ed is viewed as boring and tedious in most cases, which leads to a lack of attention paid to it, which, in turn, leads to accidents. Driver’s Ed must have many different facets that engage with teens of all different learning styles, so that the information presented is not just heard, but engaged with. Programs that show the consequences of distracted driving would also help reduce the number of deaths each year. Showing people what happens when they don’t pay attention to the road may make them want to be more aware while driving. Related to that, encouraging phones to be put away completely while driving would help reduce the number of deaths. Another step that can be taken to help is increased vigilance from bar employees and patrons, making sure that no one is driving drunk. Deciding on a designated driver in these situations and making sure that that person doesn’t have any alcohol would reduce the risk of death. Additionally, increased awareness that driving while under the influence of drugs is still dangerous would help lower the number of deaths, considering most people think it’s okay to drive like that.

In terms of personal experience with car accidents and driving irresponsibly, my father and brother were in a car accident many years ago. They were at a stoplight, and when the light had just turned green, a drunk driver tried to drive forward, not realizing that people hadn’t started moving yet. Luckily, my family made it out uninjured, but the car was destroyed. The front was completely smashed, while the back ended up pushed on top of another car. Getting that phone call was absolutely terrifying, and I wouldn’t wish it on anyone. I like to think that I’m a pretty safe driver, but some of my friends would not be described as such. I try to encourage them to stay safe, but they still speed through neighborhoods and try to check their phones while driving. Hopefully, with increased awareness, these types of actions can be stopped in the future.

In order to be a safer driver, I can always wear my seatbelt and tell my friends to do the same. I can make sure that when I’m driving, everyone is buckled in and properly wearing their seatbelt, and encourage my friends to do the same. To be a safer driver, I can also make sure I am free from any distractions, such as my phone. I can find out the route I’m driving beforehand so that I don’t even need my phone for directions.

In conclusion, driver’s education and the programs surrounding driving are incredibly important. Steps must be taken to increase awareness and show people the consequences of driving irresponsibly. People can set good examples for their friends by driving safely and should say something to their friends when they notice them driving irresponsibly. The importance of seatbelts must also be stressed to all citizens so that they will be properly worn and hopefully prevent injury or death. Hopefully, with all the measures I’ve listed in this essay, the number of driving-related deaths each year will decrease and the roads will become safer.