Drivers and Distractions

Jakob
Kaiser’s Essay

In
today’s world, being able to drive has been a very important skill
to have. Cars are amazing machines that can provide ease with
transportation. At the same time, they also are great huge metal
projectiles that can put our loved ones or others around at risk.
With the need for driving in everyday occurrences, there has also
been a growing concern and problem with distractions,
irresponsibility, and un-education with drivers.

Distracted
driving not only risks the lives of yourself but also your
passengers, pedestrians and other vehicles around you. One of the
biggest causes of these distractions is the inappropriate use of the
phone while driving. While driving, a
phone should only be used for emergency purposes. Using a phone
could halter audio and visual cues with driving. It is always best
to either have all your calls forwarded toa voicemail.

Another
known causer for deaths while driving is an insufficient amount of
sleep. Drowsiness can increase the risk of a crash by nearly four
times. Many studies have shown that 37% of drivers at once in their
lifetime have dosed off while driving. If you are having this issue,
it is recommended that you get off the road. It is better to get off
the road then put others at the risk of harm because of your
shortsightedness.

Having
Passengers in a car is another main cause for deaths while operating
a vehicle. You should always try to limit the number of passengers,
as well as the level of activity inside the car. Driving with
several friends or family members can lead to a dangerous environment
in the car. While we all love our family and friends, having them in
a car can bring a novice driver’s focus on them rather than the
road; this in return puts others in danger.

One
thing that I strongly believe every driver should go through is
drivers ed. I personally have taken many drivers ed
courses. What I pulled out of each one that I have gone through was
valuable information. Being able to learn defensive driving was one
of the most eye-opening courses that I have taken with Drivers Ed.
I was taught things about swerving and gripping the steering wheel
that outside of the that course, I wouldn’t have otherwise been
allowed too. Having this all taught to me, has made me personally
more responsible, aware and knowledgeable with my skills in operating
a vehicle. Everyone should forgo drivers ed before it is
too late.

I
once was in a car accident that resulted in the event of our car
being totaled. The accident involved a four-car pileup. The cause,
drowsiness. The driver that caused this scene fell asleep coming to
an intersection and crashed into us at 40 mph. His accidental
sleepiness put many of us in danger. Thankfully, no one was killed
or severely injured. That experienced though further proves the need
to pull off the road and stop driving if you are sleepy.

Overall,
the safety of yourself, your passengers, pedestrians, and vehicles
around yourself are at the risk of poorly judged actions while
driving. Following some of the recommended actions can help hinder
these consequences. In some states, you can be sent to prison for
not following these tips. So please, the next time you’re in a
car, make decisions that will not adhere you from the road. Put
distractions aside to ensure the safety of your passengers and other
vehicles around you.