In The Drivers Seat

Every year nearly 40,000 people die in a car related accident in the United States and every year little is done to change this. With more and more people getting their licenses every year, the chances of car accidents increase. People deserve to feel safe when driving and they should not have to worry about unqualified drivers. The following actions are essential to effectively address the issue and achieve meaningful, lasting results.  First, there should be mandatory driver education classes that must be taken in order to earn one's license. Next, defensive driving is one of many techniques taught during drivers ed classes and it should be something that every driver needs to be doing. Lastly, completely eliminate distractions when driving. These steps would drastically reduce the possibility of car accidents, therefore leading to a safer future.

The most dangerous age to be a driver is the ages of 16-19. This is the most vulnerable age for drivers because it is when they are the most inexperienced and prone to getting into accidents. “In the United States, drivers ages 15 to 20 account for an estimated 203,256 injuries and over 2,100 deaths in a single year.” This is why it is so important for teens to get the right education when it comes to driving. It is essential for them to not only get the right teaching through driver's education, but also excellent behind the wheel training. I believe that all people, no matter their age, should take driver's education and not wait until they are 16 to drive one single time with someone and get their licence. I believe that this would substantially decrease the number of not only car accidents, but car related deaths. People should not have to be forced to take driver's education by law, people should want to get the best learning when it comes to taking on something as important and possibly as learning to drive. 

When learning to drive it is important to be not only educated, but also a defensive driver at all times. Defensive driving is a proactive method of driving that consists of assuming other drivers will make a mistake which allows drivers to react quickly. According to DriveSafeToday.com “Defensive driving is the single most effective way to reduce traffic accidents, injuries, and fatalities.” This proves that by being aware of surroundings, drivers are able to decrease the possibility of any kind of car crash. But if the evidence is not enough to show that, then take it from me personally.  I have been driving for roughly three years and not once have I stopped being a defensive driver. But not everyone drives like me. For instance, I was on the interstate with a family member and they were attempting to change lanes. They did not take the time to look over their shoulder for cars in their blind spot. This caused them to almost hit a car.  Luckily my family member heard them honk their horn and we were able to avoid the collision. This story is one of the very things that pushes me to be a safe driver. After that experience, I always remind myself to take extra care when driving and I believe that everyone should do the same. The roads are safer when everyone does their part to keep them safe.

Eliminating distractions is the best way to stay safe on the road. According to a study done by the National Safety Council “Cell phone use alone leads to approximately 1.6 million crashes every year.” Not only that, but there were roughly 3,500 people killed by distracted driving in 2025. By eliminating distractions like phones and loud music, 1.6 million car crashes could easily be cut down and thousands of people could be saved yearly. Some of the many ways to do this is by fixing your driving first. For example, when driving to a new location, get a phone stand to limit looking down at your phone for directions. Second, limit the amount of people in your car so you can stay focused on the road. Third, set your phone to silent when driving so if you get a text you will not be tempted to check your phone. Lastly, keep music to a moderate level to keep from causing distractions. By limiting one's distraction in a vehicle it can limit the possibility of causing or being involved in a car crash which could encourage others to take the same precautions.

Drivers of all ages must make their best effort to drive safely and responsibly. This takes understanding the rules of the road, driving defensively, and eliminating distractions. We all must do our part as a responsible driver to ensure safety of ourselves, our passengers, and others we share the road with.”Drive like someone’s waiting for you, because someone is.”