Taking Initiative on the road

Waking up to what was supposed to be a peaceful and quiet morning to find out you lost a loved one or a friend to a fatal car accident is soul crushing. This is the tragic reality for thousands of families torn apart every year by the devastating impact of car accidents. Even some of the drivers are haunted with the guilt and regret of imagining the pain and suffering of the victim.

The sad truth is many of these accidents could have been prevented with better drivers education and training. In some high schools for 15- 16 year olds drivers education is required but for those who went to schools where it was not they can just study and take the test at 18. After taking the test and passing they hold their learners permit for 60 days then proceed to get their driver’s license. Taking the class is way more in depth and elaborate in comparison to studying alone. Driver education is essential in reducing the number of deaths caused by driving. Proper drivers education provides drivers with the knowledge and skills to safely operate a vehicle and avoid accidents. By teaching drivers about defensive driving techniques, traffic laws, and the dangers of driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, driver education can help reduce accidents before they occur and the severity of accidents that may occur.

There are also several steps that can be taken to reduce the number of deaths related to driving. While riding in my mom’s car I noticed lots of problems on the roads, a few would be damaging pot holes and faded traffic signs. Improving road infrastructure such as better road signs, creating safer bicycle paths and pedestrian crossing would fix some of the road struggles. It’s always good to make sure your car is reaching the safety and maintenance requirements. This would include checking tires, brakes, oil, and more. Also since technology is a huge part of society, advances like making more efficient automatic emergency braking systems in cars and blind spot detection with precise sensors could make the roads safer. These things would eliminate slow reaction time and allow the vehicle to safely come to a halt without driver input. Law enforcement plays a crucial role on the roads in ensuring people follow the traffic laws by enforcing penalties for violations. Having more of them on the roads would be extremely helpful.Currently law enforcement takes advantage of technology including having radar guns and cameras to monitor traffic violations but they can increase authority in ensuring the promotion of responsible driving habits by having sensors that can see if drivers are texting while driving. Specifically because texting while driving especially in young people is a common issue.

Actually recently my family and I were rear ended which ultimately ended up totalling our car. The reason this crash happened was because the other person was texting while driving. Also, they were not obeying the traffic laws of coming to a complete stop at a red light for a right turn. Unfortunately, I was in the backseat so when we were hit my head went forward and back which caused some pain and a mild case of whiplash. Luckily neither of us were hit with severe injuries but we were hit with the stress of how are we going to get a new car. This incident significantly raised my awareness when on the road.

We know that once we get in the car we have to look out for ourselves and others. Even simple things such as me putting on my seat belt , turning off my phone to limit distractions, or obeying traffic laws can make me a better, safer driver. This can make for a good driving record and encourage those around me to have good driving habits. If I see a mistake I can speak up and tell them the consequences or effects their actions may cause. I can also emphasize how being a responsible driver can be rewarding. Your insurance or car cost could be cheaper and you can contribute to safer roads.

Although some things on the road are hard to avoid, by participating in driver education programs, we can gain the knowledge and skills necessary to become safer drivers and help prevent accidents on the road. We can make a difference in reducing the number of deaths related to driving by being more aware of our surroundings, following traffic laws, and avoiding distractions while driving. Taking personal steps to make sure you are a reliable driver can be highly beneficial on the road. Practicing safe driving habits can also make a positive impact on the lives of those around us and even ourselves.