Responsible driving behaviors are the most underrated skills to have in this nation. I recently carpooled with a friend and his father and experienced some unsafe driving. My friend’s father was driving, and his actions alarmed me. As we entered an overpass, the driver took his eyes off the road, pulled out his phone, and searched up directions to get us to our destination. While I knew that many Americans died on the road each year, this experience was a forceful reminder about the importance of safe driving.
One of the most important ways that the number of driving-related deaths can be reduced is by improving drivers ed. Driving schools often stress about what the driver needs to do; use the blinker, watch for blind spots, and know the rules of the road. However, driving schools must also emphasize what not to do, such as texting or drinking while driving. According to the AAA, the demographic group of drivers most likely to experience a crash are drivers between 16 and 17 years old. Teenagers are less able to cope with distractions because they lack the driving experience other age groups have. Young drivers would be more likely to use safer driving habits if they were more aware of these statistics.
While drivers ed is the most effective way to reduce driving-related deaths, higher penalties for unsafe driving behavior may also save lives. The NHTSA reported that drunk driving kills over 10,000 Americans each year, and distracted driving kills nearly 3,000 Americans each year. Increasing the penalty for drunk or distracted driving, either as jail time or a fine, will likely persuade drivers to make better choices on the road. In addition, some states require individuals charged with drunk driving to have an Ignition Interlock Device in their vehicle. The IID requires the driver to blow into a breathalyzer; if the driver’s blood alcohol content is too high, the device will prevent the vehicle from starting. IIDs, fines, and jail time can all discourage unsafe driving.
One way that I can become a safer driver is by limiting my distractions. When I drive, I usually empty my pockets onto my center console so I can sit more comfortably. If I receive a text message, my phone goes off and causes a distraction. I can eliminate this distraction by turning my phone to airplane mode, or by enabling my phone’s “Do Not Disturb While Driving” setting. I can also encourage others to drive safer whenever I carpool. If the driver is texting or not paying attention to the road, I will offer to text or navigate for them so the driver can focus on driving.
In conclusion, there are a variety of ways that people can minimize driving-related deaths in America. Drivers ed and tougher driving laws can save lives each year. As more young people earn their Driver’s Licenses, our society must unite to encourage them to make smart choices on the road, and in life.