Importance of Driver Education in Reducing the Number of Deaths as a Result of Driving

Each year, more than 1.35 million people die due to road related accidents. Driver’s education is an important tool that can be applied to reduce this number of deaths and practice safe driving methods. Being a safe driver is a difficult task because of the fact that even being the safest driver out there can still lead to collisions. The main worry for drivers is other drivers on the road. In order to practice safe driving, you should also be cautious of yourself as well.

Driver education offers a variety of methods that can be used to practice safe driving techniques. Without driver education, none of these tools are offered. Adding onto that idea, without proper education, the roads would be extremely unsafe. For comparison, you wouldn’t want to enter a test unprepared just like how you wouldn’t want to enter the road unsure of how to manage it. Being unprepared for small things in life may simply lead to defeat. Being unprepared for something like driving is much more grave, as it can lead to death. To be prepared; proper right of way notions, seat-belting wearing, the usage of a turn signal, courtesy, and how to identify different signs should be present while driving. When all of these systems and more are put into place, the road is a safe place for all drivers. Without these safety precautions, there would be major disorder, injuries, and more frequent deaths on the road.

Studies have shown that seatbelt wearing can reduce your risk of death by 45%. Wearing a seat belt is a major way that death on the road can be reduced. Other steps to take include scanning. When you are constantly scanning the road, you are able to keep an eye out for other drivers and be prepared to react in the event of a near collision. Tunnel vision while driving is not a good way to drive because it increases your chances of not seeing a potential collision situation. Along with this, courtesy, alertness, and constant vigilance are beneficial to keep in mind when on the road. Driving when you are tired leaves you unalert which can majorly increase your risk of being involved in an accident. When you are awake and alert while driving, you will be in a clear headspace. Driving takes more concentration than one might think, you need to be constantly looking out for new situations every time to take a turn, make a lane change, or even enter an intersection. Alertness while driving can help you reduce chances of injury and death of not only others, but also yourself.

I myself have been present in a car accident. Once my older sister got her license, she would take us for leisurely drives at night. During these drives she would often play music, on this particular night she was playing the music a bit too loud. As a result of this distraction, she was unable to focus on another car at a 4 way intersection. At only 17, she had gotten into her first accident. The amount of panic and worry that comes up after you realize you’ve been in an accident is something that many don’t want to experience. After that incident she got a point added to her license. After the incident, I grew a deeper appreciation for all the resources driver education makes available to those taking the course; the precautions stated should always be taken.

Various steps can be taken to be a safer driver and help others on the road. As known, intersections are one of the main places where collisions occur. It is important to know when your right of way is present. Not going when it is your turn can lead to confusion of other drivers and ultimately, accidents. Keeping that in mind while driving is important. Other important things involve limiting distractions and following safety precautions. When you are free of distractions, you can better focus on the road and follow those safety precautions. Another thing that can be extremely helpful in being a safer driver is practice. The more your drive, the better you will get at it. Practicing driving in a vehicle is vital in making sure you are comfortable with different situations on the road.

Driver education leaves learners with a better understanding of the road and different mechanisms and maneuvers needed to manage the road. Making sure you know what to do when in an emergency situation, are aware of your surroundings, and aware of your car’s maintenance needs; you are able to avoid troubles on the road. When implications on the road occur, injury and death can be present. To avoid these unnecessary deaths, driver education acts as a guide on how to reduce the number of deaths as a result of driving.