Name: Hansen Lloyd Lungren
From: Nampa, ID
Votes: 0
Ignorance
is Insufficient
In
this day and age where technological advancements are occurring
nearly every day, it is becoming increasingly common for teenage and
adult drivers alike to use their cell phones and other devices while
operating a vehicle. The roads are becoming more dangerous for all
drivers because of the decisions of an increasing population of
individuals who cannot resist sending or responding to a text, email,
phone call, or any other type of notification. In order to get a hold
of this issue, we need to educate drivers, young and old. Ignorance
leads to poor decision making. By implementing a program in which
every licensed driver is required to attend and pass a course that
discusses the issue of cell phone use while driving, the overall
awareness of the issue will increase leading to more action and,
ultimately, less tragic deaths.
My
dad is an example of an experienced driver who chooses to use his
phone while driving. I notice a difference in how safe I feel when he
drives without a phone compared to the times he is responding to
messages. While I have not been in a car accident caused by
distracted driving, I have seen its effects on family and friends. In
my opinion, sending a text is not worth the pain and suffering that
will follow a tragic death. Think of all the family and friends who
are affected by the death of one person. I think that if more drivers
had this outlook, that their actions affect other people, more
drivers would be willing to delay their gratification until the car
is in park. This education should be incorporated into the regular
Drivers ed course that is required for all individuals to
receive a driver’s license. However, only educating the upcoming
generation won’t solve the national dilemma. A course educating all
drivers about the dangers of using a cell phone while operating a
vehicle should be required by law every four years. Change will only
come through consistency. Each time the course is completed, the
individual will receive an official sticker that goes on their
license, complete with an expiration date. All drivers will be
required to renew their course certification every four years.
When
I drive with my dad and he receives a message, I offer to respond for
him so that he can focus on the task at hand. I understand that my
role as a passenger is to keep the driver’s attention on the road,
not on what is happening in the car, online, or on the radio. Any
sort of distraction could cause a tragic accident. I will continue,
as long as I live, to ensure that the car in which I am driving, or a
passenger is safe to all individuals who are on the road, including
those both inside and outside of my vehicle, by eliminating
distractions and delaying gratification until the car is in park.
