In the Driver’s Seat

Individuals make choices as they drive, and those choices may have consequences. Severe outcomes may arise from those who choose to drink and drive, text and drive, eat and drive, etcetera. Statistics have shown that the number of deaths that result per year from driving are higher than the amount that result from the ones who die in combat. Being in the driver’s seat is of particular importance in which more individuals need to be made aware.

To reduce the number of deaths related to driving, certain steps need to be taken. Drivers’ education is one of the first and most crucial aspects that needs to be taken into consideration. These education programs are designed to inform individuals how to drive both safely and effectively. They work to develop essential skills and knowledge for people to obtain while on the road. In the classroom setting, the instructor teaches the students the difference between the traffic signs and lights, what to do in certain scenarios, and most importantly, how to be a safe driver. However, some instructors may fail to teach the importance of being more aware of other drivers. One person might recognize themselves as a secure driver but does not consider that most accidents occur from not paying attention to other drivers. Therefore, statistics may fall if more of these students are taught to be cautious of others while driving.

Although drivers’ education is a beneficial way in reducing car incidents, there are other factors that can be considered as well. Before driving even takes place, all individuals must put on a seatbelt. One of the many reasons why some individuals die from car accidents comes directly from not wearing a seatbelt. Another contributing factor results from someone getting behind the wheel under the influence of alcohol or drug substance. Even one drink could compromise driving safely. Others tend to be in a rush or are focusing on other things such as being on their phone. Leaving for any occasion way ahead of time is a very ideal concept to consider. Multitasking should be prevented while driving, as your life can be on the line.

Personally, I have experienced a time in my life where I was in the backseat of the car when an accident took place. My dad was in the driver’s seat, my mom in the passenger, while my friend and I were in the second row. While we were driving down this busy road, an older man pulled out in front of my dad as we side-swiped him. Fortunately, the man did not get injured, but his vehicle was in rough condition. By the time the police came to check out the scene, one of the officers came up to my father and said that the man should not be driving at the age he was. As we were also informed that this older man was starting to lose both his vision and hearing, the officer labeled him as a “risk” to all drivers. Therefore, not all car accidents are directly correlated from being intoxicated or under any other influence. Whether an individual cannot see or hear from being too old or simply does not have enough driving experience from being a new driver, car accidents can occur at either incident.

To become a better driver, we need to prioritize safety first. This means buckle up! The first plan of action everyone should do as soon as stepping into a vehicle is to put on their seatbelt. Being aware of our surroundings is also key. Although one may say they are a safe driver, there are other individuals on the road who may not be able to say the same. Following the speed limit is another factor that can prevent car accidents. Someone who is going too fast has more of a chance of ending up an unwanted outcome than someone who is not. Minimizing distractions is very crucial in participating in. Staying off your phone, turning the radio down, or any other contribution results in staying safe while on the road. Preventing the use of drugs and alcohol consumption not only keeps the actual driver safe, but other surrounding drivers as well. One factor that not many people consider is keeping a safe distance from the car that is in front of you. The phrase “riding one’s behind” is a situation that happens often. If the person in front of you happened to stop suddenly, this situation could result in hitting their rear end and dealing with serious consequences.

Being in the driver’s seat is a vital role that can either make or break one’s life. It is important to not only be a safe driver for oneself but for others around you. Drivers’ education can be useful in teaching skills and essential knowledge to individuals in becoming a better driver on the road. Preventing the use of alcohol, drugs, and phones are other effective ways to keep your life safe. Overall, we can contribute to being both a better and safer driver by putting on one seat belt at a time.