In the driver's seat

Driver education is the most important tool in the fight to reduce preventable fatalities. Driving is a privilege, not a right, and those who choose to take on that responsibility need to be educated enough to be trusted with the safety of others. If people were allowed to drive without any form of education, thousands of people would die in accidents every single day. Driving is such a mentally and physically demanding activity, and it is important to teach people the severity and consequences of unsafe driving and how to do it safely to prevent unecessary death.

In my city, the majority of fatal car accidents are attributed to speeding and red light runners. We have a growing problem where drivers will race down main roads going twenty miles or more over the speed limit. Even on smaller side roads and residential neighborhoods, people often go ten miles per hour faster than the posted speed. Many cars often run red lights or ignore stop signs and enter intersections in a dangerously unsafe manner, often resulting in collisions, critical injuries, and fatalities. If local law enforcement were to patrol in the most affected areas, they could ticket those who commit these unsafe acts and deter others from following suit, thereby preventing accidents and reducing the number of deaths. Another solution would be to implement driving tests every few years in order to renew your license. Drivers must be able to prove that they can safely follow the laws of the road, and if they do not pass the test, they must take a safe driving course and pass before they have the option to renew. 

I have been in several car accidents in my life, many of them while in the vehicle with another driver. My mother is not the safest driver, and unfortunately, I have been in the vehicle with her during several car accidents. It is quite a traumatizing experience, and I am glad that none of the accidents were fatal and did not cause permanent harm to myself or others. It is an immeasurable freedom to be able to drive on my own now, as her driving has not improved. My father is also not a safe driver, but fortunately, he has never been in any car accidents involving other people. I have learned what behaviors to avoid while driving from my parents. Following too closely, speeding, eating or drinking, using their phone, or driving while under the influence. 

One step I take to practice safe driving is to ensure that my phone is in driving mode, which prevents calls, texts, and other notifications and apps from working while my phone is connected to my vehicle. This helps by eliminating distractions and allowing me to remain focused and keep all of my attention on the road and driving safely. Another step I take is to practice defensive driving maneuvers by keeping watch for potential hazards and unsafe drivers. To prevent an accident is one of the best ways to keep people safe. I ensure I maintain a safe distance between all of the cars around me, I follow the speed limits, and maintain the flow of traffic so as not to impede others. I make sure I drive predictably, not politely. Oftentimes, even good intentions can cause misunderstandings and accidents. After a car accident a few years ago resulting from a migraine attack, I have vowed to never drive while I am experiencing any migraine symptoms to keep myself and others safe. It is important to understand your limits and know when you should not risk harming yourself or others. 

When others are driving, I encourage them to stay off their phones, as it is the law in Michigan to drive hands-free. I will offer to complete whatever task they are attempting, whether it’s changing the music, responding to an important message, or searching for directions to our destination. By being an active passenger, I can help the driver focus on safe driving. I also keep an eye out for any potential hazards or unsafe drivers to help prevent accidents. Sometimes drivers miss things because they are not capable of seeing everything from all directions. If I notice a vehicle is getting too close or not looking before they attempt to merge or turn, I will warn the driver to make them aware of the possible hazard. I also encourage people not to drive while under the influence of drugs or alcohol, as it is incredibly dangerous and never worth the risk.