Driving: Making The Roads a Safer Place

Driving for novices can be a formidable obstacle to conquer; it is likely one of the first times a person has been in control of a massive piece of powerful machinery. Safety seems like it is the antonym of driving for early learners. But, there are a couple key ways which make driving substantially safer, specifically education, societal changes, and good driving habits. One of the best prevention of accidents is experience, and the safest way to get it is by having a concrete baseline understanding of the rules, risks, and the mechanics of the roadway.  

Educating new drivers is pivotal to preventing accidents and even fatalities. Taking even a single driver's Ed course can introduce novice drivers to concepts and habits that might be too intimidating for a beginner behind the wheel. Moreover, it can establish some potential risks a driver might encounter. So, when the new learner starts driving, they are more familiar with hazardous situations and how to handle them. For example, introducing concepts like driving in bad weather, establishing what a safe driving distance is and how to measure it, and roadway etiquette like passing lanes. In addition, understanding the laws and signage present on the road way will prepare a driver better for when they interact with them. Identifying some rarer signage that a new driver may have never encountered before will demystify them, like a yield sign or a slippery when wet sign. Finally, education can also introduce the mechanics of a car. Like the difference between a stick shift and an automatic. The ABS braking system is a good example of intimidating machinery that, when a new driver first experiences it, they may be startled. Learning is the first step in safer driving, but changes can be made on a societal level which will improve safety too.

Implementing better structures and technological improvements will help to make driving significantly safer. Having clear markings, signage, and lighting is crucial for safe driving. If roads are riddled with potholes, blurry lines, and poor signage, drivers are more likely to get confused and make mistakes. Furthermore, technological advancements, like better air bags, or car sensors and cameras, can avoid crashes and fatalities. As technology gets more advanced, human error will become less of a factor, making the roads safer. That said, technology is not foolproof. As evident through recalls, or mistakes made by self driving cars. All in all, technology, despite some of its flaws, will make driving significantly safer.  

As a newer driver myself, I have made countless mistakes while driving. I have accidentally driven onto the curb, gone both above and below the speed limit, parked over the lines, and many more. But, the theme unifying all of these failures is that I learn from them. For example, when I drove onto the curb, it taught me where the boundaries of the car are. Like I stated previously, the experience these situations gave me is second to none. However, the education I received before is what I credit to me having never been in an accident. I have been in situations where a crash could have occurred, but they didn't because I had already been schooled on how to respond. For example, I've driven in the rain and felt the car slip. Instead of panicking and over reacting, I was able to remain calm, ease off the gas, and course correct. Some habits that I learned from education happen before I even touch the gas peddle.

Safety always comes first when doing something as potentially risky as driving. First, putting on a seatbelt is a must. Just this simple step makes driving drastically safer. Second, distraction is one of the most common causes of car crashes. By placing the phone in a place out of reach or turning on Do Not Disturb, a driver can keep their eyes off of their device and on the road. Third, checking and adjusting the mirrors, seats, and steering wheel before each driver to ensure the optimal position will ensure that the driver has the best visibility and fewest blind spots. Fourth, practicing defensive driving habits, like following at a safe distance, scanning, and adjusting to weather conditions are all excellent ways to keep safe on the road. 

In conclusion, education is crucial for safe driving. 

Spreading awareness about the importance of drivers ed, encouraging friends and family to remain up-to-date with the rules and regulations of the roads, and practicing safe driving are all excellent ways to remain safe and spread awareness. Driving can be scary, but with precaution, education, and a cool head, it can be a little less daunting.