There
are approximately 276 million motor vehicles operating on US roads.
With a number this astronomical, the education of drivers on vehicle
operation, safe habits, the road system, and how to handle unexpected
situations are vital. Instilling this knowledge into every US driver
is important; as well as constantly reminding them of the
consequences. Driving is a privilege, and if that privilege is being
abused then it can be taken away. If people are more educated and
informed about what it means to be a safe driver, then they’ll put
that knowledge into practice.

The
first step toward reducing driving related deaths could be making the
process of becoming licensed more difficult. While this option may
not be highly favored; people must understand that it is a matter of
life or death. An additional way of making the process more difficult
would be doubling the length of the driving test. This would ensure
that drivers are equipped with the skills they need when they get
behind the wheel. Furthermore; every US driver should be required to
retake the test every two years with a percentage of 85 or better.
This will show people that driving is something to be taken
seriously, and not for granted. Another option toward reducing
driving related deaths is giving people an incentive for safe
driving. These could include discounted registration, discounted gas
prices, and better insurance rates for certain amount of time without
being in an accident, speeding, or unsafe driving practices. This
could be monitored by a device similar to Progressive Snapshot; a
device that is plugged into your car which tracks your driving
behavior.
When
travelling with my dad as a passenger, I notice that he has the
constant urge to pull out his cell phone; especially while driving on
the highway. I constantly have to tell him to put his phone down, or
sometimes I have to take it from him. I worry about him, his safety,
and the safety of others when I’m not in the car with him. Since
getting my license at the age of 16; I’m more aware of the road and
people’s driving behaviors. I’m always telling my dad to remember
to use his blinker or that he’s too close to a car. If he’s
sleepy while driving I’ll offer to drive. I’m sure there are a
lot of people on the road who share by dad’s behaviors. If people
were educated about little tasks they could do; like putting their
cellphone in the back seat, or not driving while sleepy; this would
allow them to be more aware as a driver.
Steps
that people can take to be safer drivers include driving at the speed
limit, looking to make sure the intersection is clear after a red
light, and being a defensive driver. Also; leaving the house early to
allow time for traffic, turning off your phone, and most definitely
not driving while drunk. Wearing your seatbelt and avoiding driving
in bad weather are also helpful.