Driving Aware Shows That You Care

A
few months ago I watched the car ahead of me go straight off of the
curved road into a rail, sparks flying, turning twice in the air
before landing right-side up. After pulling over down the road and
calling the police, I reevaluated the way I saw distracted driving
from then on.

Preventative
measures through technology and communications could reduce the
likelihood that potentially fatal accidents like these will occur.
While communication campaigns already exist, greater and more
widespread effort could ensure that all drivers encounter safe
driving reminders multiple times during their trips. In addition,
technological solutions can promote and reward safe driving habits.
These could include apps and “black boxes” designed to track
speed and maneuverability. Ignition interlock devices, such as
ALCOLOCK completely prohibit a driver from driving while under the
influence of alcohol or other substances. Devices similar to these
could be subsidized by the government or encouraged by insurance
companies through lower premiums. When drivers are regularly held
accountable for their decisions, they will develop healthy driving
habits.

Arguably
the most important preventative strategy is drivers ed courses.
Today, only about 32 states require teenagers to take these courses;
the federal government should require all teenagers to take these
drivers ed courses to reduce dangerous driving nationwide. New
drivers are the most likely to get in an accident because of their
lack of experience; drivers ed helps fill this gap with
awareness. In addition to learning driving regulations and
procedures, students are guided to comprehend the great
responsibility involved in driving and the impact it can have on
others. drivers ed engenders self-evaluation of goals and
motivations to aid in the process of decision making. This means a
teenager driving on the highway is more likely to contemplate the
risks of the decision to send a text or make a call — to choose to
drive safely to protect themselves and others.

Since
taking drivers ed courses I have become more aware of greater
precautions I can take to ensure that I drive safer for myself and
those around me. I can regulate my driving environment by limiting
distractions. This can be done by lowering the volume of music,
moderating passenger distractions, and putting down my phone to
ensure that I am aware of all dangers on the road and practicing
defensive driving measures. It is also my responsibility as a
passenger in other vehicles to kindly remind the driver to follow
these methods as well. Also, I can prepare myself to drive safely
beforehand by getting enough sleep, ensuring that I am in the correct
headspace and emotionally stable enough to focus on the road. Most
importantly, I will never get behind the wheel intoxicated; if I see
someone about to make a bad decision like driving drunk, I will offer
them alternative transportation. I will constantly work to improve my
driving habits so that I don’t endanger others. Advocating for
these habits and educating all
drivers
is very important in reducing vehicular accidents.