2024 Driver Education Round 3
Driving Toward Safety
Hannah Johnson
Hampstead, North Carolina
Being educated as a driver is a foundational step in preventing accidents on the road. Learning about traffic laws, defensive driving techniques, and gaining an understanding of the overall mechanical side of the a vehicle can emphasized the importance of judgment and patience while driving. Driver ed allows young drivers to learn about good driving habits early. Young people are prone to distractions and risky behaviors due to inexperience and a sense of invincibility. Studies have shown that putting drivers through a formal education program are less likely to be involved in an accident compared to those who haven’t gone through a program. Being put in a driver's program will give them some insight into the consequences of unsafe driving.
This is one step too many to reduce driving-related deaths. Educated citizens are at the top of the list but also the engineering and enforcement of the roads can play a part. Stricter traffic laws and enforcement can play a role in making the roads safer. Also improving road design with more comprehensive communication can enhance safe driving as well. Lastly public awareness campaigns can help raise-awarness for the dangers of distracted or impaired driving. So many factors can play into making the roads a safer place. Whether it’s advancing roads or using modern technology like collision alerts or driving assistance, anything protocols that can help reduce accidents should be taken. This is a multifaceted issue and should be approached with many different solutions.
Being in or around an accident can leave a lasting impression. I recall a specific accident that as a young driver had caused. I was irresponsibly using a mobile device while driving through an intersection. I ran a red light and T-boned a truck that was making a left turn. My car was completely crushed and his car had flipped to its side. No one ever knows what it's like to be in a car accident until it happens. The ringing of your ears, the sharp pain from the airbag, the tiny moment you have during the collision that you have no memory of almost like you blacked out. It was the summer before I left for college. I remember immediately exiting the vehicle to grab the man out of his car and for about five minutes he was not responding to me. One thing was on my mind the whole time and it was “Oh my god I killed a man,”. I thought about my future, I thought I had lost everything I worked for. This moment forever plays in my mind when I get into a car. Now I never even glance at my phone while driving, always check the lights, and stay focused on what is going on around me. That accident influenced my life forever and I have gained such a powerful incite to life. I wish this upon no other young driver and hope to help influence and promote education on safe driving.
Becoming a safe driver takes experience and effort. Practicing defensive driving is key also reducing distractions in the vehicle. If needed taking alternative notices is necessary like putting your phone on “Do Not Disturb”. Promoting safe driving is also important, informing friends and family while they are practicing bad habits like texting or multitasking while driving can be significant. Educating friends and family, or correcting them while on the road are all steps to help avoid further accidents. Individual efforts to emphasize responsible driving can help form a society with significantly fewer road accidents.
The importance of driver education cannot be talked about enough. Providing information and educating individuals serves as the foundation for responsible driving. Not only is education important but also enforcing traffic laws and public awareness are critical as well. Promoting safe driving can help improve our driving conditions. Committing to safe driving and encouraging others can save lives and ensure the safety of many on the roads.
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