Name: Austin Derr
From: Kansas City, MO
Votes: 0
2019 Drivers ed Essay
What is the importance of driver
education in reducing the number of deaths as a result of driving?
Drivers ed is most important
because it can be a bold ‘in your face’ type of approach
regarding the privilege yet responsibility of driving. I believe
drivers need a little scare tactic to realize the importance of no
distractions when it comes to driving. Hands on experience of
driving as well as up to date statistics since the creation of the
cell phone and other mobile devices as well as technology advances
within the cars themselves. Hard facts and survivor stories or maybe
family stories willing to be shared when there isn’t a survivor to
do the speaking.
What steps can be taken to reduce the
number of deaths related to driving?
This question is not specific to a young
or older driver, not for a less or more experienced driver. This is
for anyone behind the wheel. Take ownership! Realize what you agree
to when you decide to turn over that ignition and put that vehicle in
drive. The fact is that technology is in our lives to stay. Can we
develop some technology to recognize an impaired driver sooner?
Evaluate some of the ‘privacy’ laws when it comes to drivers,
cell phone and technology usage. Maybe that drunk driver felt his
privacy or rights were violated somehow but what about the rights of
the victims? Are they around to claim violation? Too often in the
news you hear stories about repeat offenders. Why? Maybe at the
time of turning on the ignition, the driver has to state their full
name and say ‘I agree’ to abiding by the laws of the road. I’ve
had to abide by rules just filling out college or scholarship
applications. How can we hold driver’s more accountable? Could a
recorded ‘I agree’ with a full name requirement be used in court
or by law enforcement? Cars talk to us all the time, so let’s talk
back and utilize that!
Have
you ever had an experience of being in a car accident or have seen
your friends or family members driving irresponsibly?
I
have not been in an accident myself thankfully but when my sister
started driving me around in her early driving days, I took mental
note of things not to do. Like being in such a hurry to get to the
next stop light. It’s just not worth it.
What
steps can you take to be a better and safer driver as well as help
others become safer on the road?
I
have personally signed up for the On My Way App. That is something I
felt I could do on my own and make a difference. I can share that
information with friends and family and try to encourage their signup
too. I have made my choice and always remember I am taking on a
responsibility for myself, those in the vehicle with me and others
around me.
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