Name: Abbigayle Las
From: Bangor, Wisconsin
Votes: 0
Shattered
“I was just in a
horrible car accident. I am okay, but the car is not.” These words
rolled off my sister’s lips as she leaned in, hugging me, and
attempting to ease my distress. As the bell rang, I stood in the
hallway with many questions running through my head.
The importance of
drivers ed plays a prominent role in reducing the number of
deaths as a result of driving. Among new drivers, driver’s
education dramatically reduces the number of crashes and traffic or
alcohol-related violations. Drivers ed teaches what to do
in the case of weather situations such as snow or black ice, traffic
situations, and being more alert for pedestrians or animals. It
educates students to drive safely.
To reduce the
number of deaths related to driving, I encourage others before they
exit a parking spot, to make sure their passengers and themselves are
buckled. If anything were to happen, a seat belt makes sure they
would stay more protected and safe. Also, drivers should make sure
they are alert when they drive. Drifting in other people’s lanes or
not seeing an animal can have significant consequences that should be
avoided. Before entering an intersection or going through a green
light, drivers should check to make sure there is no traffic heading
their way. To ensure everyone’s safety, they should not drive too
fast or too slow.
I have been in one
car accident before, but I would say it was not due to
irresponsibility. My sister was driving up a hill in the wintertime
when we hit black ice. The back end of our car spun out a few times,
and we were saved from going down a steep hill by a small tree.
To become a better
and safer driver myself and helping others become safer, I can
encourage others to drive the speed limit. When there are dangerous
conditions such as rain, ice, or snow, I can inspire myself and
others to drive cautiously and leave earlier to avoid speeding. One
thing that appeals to teens or adults these days is phone use. “It
is just a quick text or snap chat, it is not a big deal.” I
disagree with this excuse. When you text, you are twenty-three times
more likely to be in an accident than if you did not use your phone.
Texting slows your brake reaction speed by eighteen percent,
increasing the chance of being in a fatal accident. The Virginia Tech
Transportation Institute said, “Texting while driving is the same
as driving blind for five seconds at a time. That’s like traveling
the length of a football field while going fifty-five miles per
hour.” Nothing is more important than life. Putting yourself or
others in danger for a text or snap chat is not worth it and can
wait.
James Dean once
said, “Take it easy driving- the life you save may be mine.”
