Nearly
1.25 million people in the world die from car crashes each year. This
is about 3,287 people a day. The National Highway Traffic Safety
Administration (NHTSA) states that the average number of car deaths
per year in the United States is 37,461, this is an average of 102
per day. Sit back and really think about these numbers. These numbers
are outrageous. These numbers are the reason driving safely is so
important. Many drivers, including myself, are not aware of how high
these numbers are until researching about this topic. There are also
many drivers who do not think about anyone else besides themselves
when getting in their cars. There are many steps everyone can take to
become a better and safer driver as well as helping others to become
safer on the road as well as yourself. Some of these steps may
include focusing on driving, planning ahead, be aware of your
surroundings, stay alert and awake, and put your phone away.
The
first and most important step to becoming a safer driver is to focus
on driving. This step should be a no brainer but often times people
are distracted by many other things. Always keep your eyes on the
road and don’t try to multitask. Put all the distractions away.

The
second step is to plan ahead. There are many things that could go
wrong when driving so it is important to always plan ahead. A good
habit is to always leave a little bit earlier than needed just in
case something does happen, especially when driving long distances.
Running late could cause speeding which is unsafe for not only
yourself but everyone else on the road.

The
third step is to be aware of your surroundings. Always always always
be aware of your surroundings when driving. When driving, there are
many things to be aware of. Always watch for animals, especially
deer. Be aware of other cars around you. Keep in mind the speed limit
at the time. Watch for road work. All of these are things to watch
out for including many more.

The
third step is to stay alert and awake. Falling asleep is a big risk
when driving. There are many ways to prevent falling asleep while
driving. When I feel myself getting tired I like to play music to
keep myself awake. Another way to prevent falling asleep is to open a
window or turn on some cool air to keep you alert. If you do happen
to catch yourself falling asleep on a long drive, you can always pull
over somewhere and take a quick nap.

The
last step is to put your phone away! This is probably the most common
distraction in today’s world, especially to teens. Distracted
driving is the leading cause of all accidents in the United States.
Texting while driving is considered a distraction. Twenty-six
percent of all motor vehicle crashes are related to the use of cell
phones.
That one text can wait until you have parked your vehicle. It is not
worth your life so put your phone away while driving!

I
am very fortunate to say that I have never been in a car accident but
I know many people who have been. Hearing someone has been in a car
accident is the worst news ever. Losing a close family member or
friend due to a car accident is news I never want to hear and never
want anyone else to hear. This is why driving safely is so important,
so please remember the steps to take to become a safer driver every
time you get into a vehicle.