Advantageous
Techniques for Safer Driving

With
the advent of the first automobile, the apparent benefits of cars
have always been obvious: fast-efficient transportation. In modern
times, it seems as if almost all people own a car for this very
reason. While the use of cars becomes more widespread, the use and
maintenance of driver safety techniques, among drivers, has fallen
behind. As a result, numerous deaths and injuries occur every year.
On average, a whopping 34,000 deaths occur every year. This number is
comparable to the number of lives lost during the Korean war. We, as
a society, can stop such wreckage—the solution is to employ better
driver safety techniques into the regular driving habits of the
average driver.

The
cause of most car collisions is a distracted driver; the underlying
culprit is the mobile phone. As many benefits as cell phones may
offer, they constantly bombard their owners with messages and alerts.
Whether it be a text message or breaking news notification. By
powering a cell phone off before driving will make any driver more
attentive to the road. While some may argue that electronic devices
are necessary tools during a commute, such as for navigation, these
needs do not outweigh the risk that they impose when drivers decide
to use them. Furthermore, many new technologies like Bluetooth audio
systems or built-in navigation systems, can meet the same needs that
drivers may have. This small action could save your life and the
lives of others.
Having
common courtesy and respect for those whom you share the road with is
yet another method by which you can drive safely. Roads and highways
are crowded, with drivers racing to their destination. With this
busyness comes aggressive and impatient driving. Cars speeding and
restricting access of other cars when changing lanes—are all
examples of bad driving courtesy. Reflecting upon the speed that you
drive at and your interaction with other cars and pedestrians, and
fixing these errors, are both simple ways by which drivers can
incorporate better driver safety techniques in their everyday
commutes.

Having
been in a car accident due to a distracted driver, I have a firsthand
understanding of the dangers of driving. Driving with friends,
family, or by myself, I will be more conscious of the safety of all
people on the road. These simple techniques could prevent further
harm to myself and other drivers—it is our choice to use them or
not. We can pave the way for a safer future.