Driver education is essential in reducing the number of deaths as a result of driving because when individuals are properly educated or informed, they become more aware and will more likely be precautious when driving on the road. In my opinion, I think statistics give individuals a clearer understanding of the magnitude of this issue. I believe statistics, and graphs provide individuals with insight that is easier to visualize, which may be easier to grasp for some as well. For example, when reading the information provided on the website for this essay submission, the graphs and charts really stuck out to me. The way the data was presented in such a clear manner, gave me a visual which provided a more striking view of the issue. I wasn’t aware the number of fatalities in comparison to the deaths of soldiers per war. It conveyed to me immediately that this is a severe problem, more than I could have imagined. If more people are properly informed with data that is clear and concise, I think that would bring forth a different result, or at least make a slight difference in the averages.
There are various steps that can be taken to reduce the number of deaths related to driving and the main one in my opinion is awareness. Making others more aware whether through advertisements, such as commercials and other forms of media platforms that individuals are receptive to. For example, someone may say might warn a family member or friend not to text and drive, however if a person sees a commercial explaining the number of fatalities or images depicting such, then that person may take driving more seriously. Another way is being able to hold family and friends accountable by providing constant reminders because the repetitiveness of the warning may change the perception of the driver. I also believe lawmakers have done a good job thus far, but they can do more by enforcing stricter laws, raising the fines for violations and may be even creating an enforcement department specifically for this purpose.
I am fortunate to not have experienced being in a car accident, but I know many that I have and from what I have noticed, it seems most car accidents are a result of someone not being paying attention or not following the rules of driving. However, I do know there are some accidents that may not be avoidable due to other circumstances such as weather. I have not seen my friends or family driving irresponsibly, but I have observed other drivers while on the road myself who are driving irresponsibly. It is very common to see irresponsible drivers on the highway which is unfortunate being that so many people frequently used the highway. Some examples of irresponsible driving can be speeding, reckless driving, improper use of signals, or not using signals at all. I can honestly, I have seen a lot and at times it is frightening because no one seems to care about it. I often wonder as I am driving why isn’t safety a priority anymore?
The steps I can take to be a better and safer driver include remembering to always be precautious. Being precautious means being safe as soon as I step in the car which include, wearing my seatbelt, doing the speed limit, using signals and checking my mirrors at all times. Being alert and aware are very important as well, however being educated is just as important.
The steps I can take to help other become safer while driving on the road include, sharing the knowledge that I have and making sure it is understood by those I am sharing it with. I think it is very important to pass along knowledge to others because you are not only helping them to be aware, but you are also helping them to be safe on the road as well. I think it is important to keep your family and peers informed for their own benefit and safety but also for your own peace of mind. It helps to know you have helped someone in such a good way. There are times where reminders and warning will have to be repeated but when it is something that is so significant it doesn’t become a daunting task but why would one withhold information that could possibly save the next persons life? Overall I think we all have a social duty or responsibility to one another to educate and care, those are the least things we can all do as human beings.