Drive Safely or Pay the Consequences

In Texas, drivers ranging from age 15-19 make up the largest portion of distracted teen drivers, resulting in fatal car crashes. One of the biggest reasons accidents occur is due to lack of knowledge or poor decision-making behind the wheel. If taken seriously, Driver Education teaches the rules of the road, appropriate actions to take during an emergency, proactively making smart decisions before getting behind the wheel. It helps new and existing drivers to understand that driving is not just about getting from one place to another, but about staying safe and protecting others on the road.  We always thing, “Oh that could never happen to me, until it does.” Be safe and avoid the “What Ifs.” What if the shoe was on the other foot, your relatives are impacted, this would force us all to be better driver.

As a newly licensed driver, I take precautions seriously, such as keeping a safe distance from other cars, driver extra careful during bad weather conditions, and putting my phone away prior to driving greatly increases my chances on arriving home safely. These essential lessons can prevent accidents before they even happen. When properly educated, drivers are less likely to panic in stressful situations.

In my opinion, and of course my parents who are always reminding me to drive safely, there are steps we all can take to reduce the number of fatally related accidents. First, stricter enforcement on traffic laws can make a huge difference. When people know policeman are closely observing actions including texting, drinking and driving, and speeding, they are more likely to follow the rules. Secondly, improving driver education, such as taking an annual Driver Defensive course in school or through third parties may increase awareness. Lastly, public awareness such as campaigns can remind people on the roads of the danger or reckless driving, this also include rage driving.

Another action that could be taken is improvement in technology. Many cars are now modern and come with safety features like automatic breaking, lane departure warnings, and blind spot helps avoid small mistakes. However, technology alone cannot replace common sense and responsibility. Drivers still should always stay alert and focus at all times.

I’ve personally witnessed many times when I’ve been the passenger with a texting or distracted driver, speeding while checking text messages or eating. Even though we arrived home safely it made me feel very uncomfortable and safe.  I have also witnessed where drivers ignored stop signs and drove aggressively, putting all passengers at risk. After speaking with my parents about the situations, I was advised to always advocate for safe driving, even if I’m just a passenger, I can make a difference in the outcome.

Another important step to avoid is drinking or during drugs while driving. This can be especially important for young driver. Avoid peer pressure. If you know it’s no safe, speak up against such activity in the vehicle while you’re the driver, or even a passenger. If you know you’ll be drinking, seek a designated driver to get you home safely. This could avoid accidents impacting you, you family or innocent by standers.

In addition to driving your own vehicle, you can also help others become safer on the road. If you see a friend driving irresponsibly, speak up and encourage them to be more careful. At the time, it may feel uncomfortable, but it’s much better than staying silent and risking someone’s life, or even your own. You can also set a good example by always driving safely around peers and enforcing safety rules while you’re the driver.  Many times, you can leas others to setting better driving habits by the responsible actions you present.

In conclusion, driver education is imperative in reducing the number of fatal deaths caused by distracted driving. It teaches important stills, promotes safe driving habits, and helps drivers understand their responsively. By improving driver education, abiding by safety laws, using technology to aide in safe driving, and making smart decisions behind the wheel, helps us all understand the importance of the impact distracted driving could cause. Driving is a privilege, and it’s up to all of us to play our part and drive responsibly and call out those who may have unsafe driving habits. Be bold and step up when it’s important. Who knows you may save a life and your own in the process. Be courageous, think proactively and be the driving force others may need to adapt safer driving habits, after all, all lives matter.