Driver education programs have been instrumental in reducing the number of driving related deaths over the years amongst all age and socio-economic groups. The programs provide much needed information regarding risk management, safety conditions, driver readiness, driver reaction time and not excluding distracted driving as lessons. Driver education programs in most, if not all states, strive to impart knowledge, situational awareness as well as driver comfortability regarding all that comes within the responsibility of operating a motor vehicle safely. The program is important as it provides drivers with the knowledge of situations not yet experienced which has proven beneficial in reaction time,

I believe the following steps can be taken to reduce the number of deaths related to driving: universal bluetooth capabilities and mandates, audio volume preset controls as well as mandatory sobriety testing prior to the operation of a vehicle. Having all cars equipped with the capability and mandatory usage of bluetooths, would help to ensure no driver is operating a vehicle while using a handheld device, as this creates an environment in which the driver is distracted and not fully concentrating on the operation of the vehicle, which can lead to accidents and deaths. Another step which I believe would be of assistance in the reduction of deaths from driving, would be audio volume preset controls while the vehicle is in operation. Loud music while driving presents a particular type of distraction in which not only the driver is distracted but other drivers and pedestrians may also be distracted and unable to hear and or respond timely to safety warnings. The volume presets would enable while the vehicle is in drive, thus reducing the driver’s ability to increase the music volume above a certain degree and it would also allow for the driver to remain focused on the safe operation of the vehicle. Sobriety while operating a motor vehicle is the most important factor in reducing the number of deaths related to driving. Mandatory sobriety testing prior to the operation of a vehicle would require the driver to provide either a breath sample or a retinal scan prior to the driver being allowed to drive. This would prevent someone from being able to drive while impaired.

My mother and I were very recently involved in a motor vehicle accident in which a distracted driver hit the driver’s side of our car and caused our car to go head first into another car. During the accident all of the airbags deployed and I sustained a concussion, following hitting my head on the windshield and the passenger side door. This was the first and only time I have been involved in a motor vehicle accident and it was also the scariest thing I have ever experienced. My mother’s loss of consciousness and her inability to get out of the car, really shook me to my core. The thought of me losing my mother due to someone else’s negligence showed me how important it is to be focused while driving, the importance of not driving impaired and also the importance of being prepared for any situations which may arise, even some that may be out of the driver’s control. I currently do not have my license, however following the accident, I feel I need much more practice time driving to be able to respond in various situations, weather conditions as well as to be able to account for other driver errors. Witnessing my mother's attempt to keep us as safe as possible showed me, even when someone is doing everything “correctly” you can never account for someone else’s reckless and or careless behaviors. Following the accident there are several things I have decided to do that will make me a better/safer driver. I will not drive while I am impaired, I will leave in enough time to reach my destination safely, hopefully ensuring the safety of the other drivers and also I will not drive while I am distracted. I have experienced what happens when someone is distracted and it is not good. I want to be able to operate a vehicle safely and responsibly not just for my well being but for the well being of others. I have also taken a driver’s education program prior to obtaining my learner’s permit and being able to witness first hand what was discussed in the course, only furthers my belief that these programs really do help save lives each and every day.