Importance of driving education

What is the importance of drivers ed in reducing the number deaths as a result of driving? What steps can be taken to reduce the number of deaths related to driving? Have you ever had an experience of being in car accident or have seen your friends or family members driving irresponsibly? What steps can you take to be a better and safer driver as well as help others become safer on the road? Driving a car is not as easy as some people might think. It is a complex skill; you don`t only have to work the pedals and turn the steering wheel but do it on time. Skilled driver can recognize and analyze developing situations that could become dangerous, and provide proactive reaction to minimize risks and even deaths. This is not easy but the point is – it is a learned skill! Being as a driver or passenger – one way or another you have to deal with aggression on the road. There are always drivers who are in a hurry or another who is traveling under the speed limit and impeding the progress of the first ones. And more often when we want to “punish” someone for slow driving it results in anger, stress and cutting off other vehicle on purpose. NHTSA found that aggressive driving plays a major role of fatal crashes. Therefore decide for yourself your adequate driving and regard the law and for others in the same time. The best option is to be more patient when driving at the posted speed limit at all times. Treat other drivers the way you would like to be treated. In addition the most important – do not panic! The calmer you are – the easier you are able to make a decision in dangerous situations. Drivers have to be informed and educated about the danger of aggressive driving and the following consequences. To reduce the numbers of deaths on the road it is necessary to know the laws, rules and safe driving practices that should be applied to all who drive a vehicle, as well as not driving under the influence of alcohol. Pay attention to medication you use – some of them may have side effects such as inhibited reaction. Reckless driving practices such as inattentiveness, using cell phone, and physical and emotional exhaustion may put at risk even the most experienced driver and endanger others. Keeping a vehicle in a proper condition and regular maintenance can also help save lives. In my first year in the United States I was in an accident. It happened at the intersection not too far from a place where I lived. I barely had time to look in my rearview mirror, a small speeding vehicle slammed into the back of the car I had been driving. The driver just got distracted and couldn`t stop in time at the traffic light. I barely could speak with police officer who arrived at the scene. The accident affected me and after I was not comfortable getting back behind the wheel. Some of my friends still drive irresponsibly, moreover, they put others at risk of injuries and other serious consequences because of their reckless behavior. Couple years ago a person I know got a ride with his friend. Later that day they were stopped by police. As it turned out the driver was under the influence of alcohol and they both got DUI even my friend that was just a passenger and didn`t drink. Is it worth it? I don`t think so.