DD
or No Go

Drivers ed should be required of all drivers in an effort to
reduce the number of driving deaths. I feel that everyone needs a
dose of reality, such as pictures of accidents from distracted or
drunk driving, as well as hearing from victims of these accidents.
Although this is uncomfortable to see and hear, it’s needed for the
message to truly hit home. However, in order to truly ensure a
longer term impact, drivers ed and these visuals cannot be
a one-time only event. Young drivers (i.e. under 21) should complete
an annual online review of these topics, along with some sort of quiz
to ensure that the driver actually paid attention. Perhaps this
can’t be legally required, but auto insurance companies can sponsor
the continued education and provide an insurance discount to anyone
who completes the training. Personally, I have never been in an
accident; however, I have witnessed my friends driving irresponsibly.
I am proud to say that I do not drink alcohol; however, my friends
do. I am known among my friends, and even among their parents, as
the DD – Designated Driver. I am available to any of my friends,
no matter the time of day or night, to pick them up and drive them
home safely. Our friend group has a saying “”. It
took a little bit of time to get everyone on board with this motto,
but by being consistent, it really has become our group’s culture.
That is my recommendation to all teen groups…do whatever is
necessary to have a DD…take turns or perhaps there’s one person
who is happy to take on that role…as long as the entire group
sticks to the motto “”.
Jackson Bailey