In The Driver's Seat

By: Reuben Londhe

Every year there are thousands of deaths in the U.S. due to car accidents. Most of these deaths could have been prevented if drivers had the drivers ed. Drivers ed is important because not only does it teach the rules of the road, safety measures, but it also gives experiences to new drivers behind the wheel. If all drivers take drivers ed courses, they will obtain useful knowledge that can keep them safe and make help them make wise decisions. Plus, since it is a course, there is always a pass or fail. Drivers can either be granted to drive a vehicle without any more training if they pass and if they fail, they can have the opportunity to get more training. That way no harm can come to them or to others. 

There are many steps to reduce the death rate when it comes to driving. We can add a new law that can make taking a drivers ed course mandatory for getting a license. Many people use Wi-Fi or data whenever they drive so they can use their phones. Companies or Car Manufacturers can add a device that blocks out the Wi-Fi and the data, while they are driving so they don’t become distracted while driving. Drivers can set their phones to do not disturb while driving. We can also take the use of AndrioidAuto or Apple CarPlay, this feature is built into the car which minimizes the danger of cell phone use and improves the driving experience. 

I have never been in a car accident, but I have witnessed car accidents on the interstate. But most of the time the cause is distracted driving. Sometimes when a friend uses their phone while driving, I ask them to put their phone away while they are driving. Being older and knowing the risk of driving I try to help my friends and some family members with their driving and help them to stop being distracted while driving. 

To become a safer and better driver there are many steps I can take, and others can use these steps as well with their driving, which are…

• Not to drive fast and recklessly when I’m upset or angry

• Putting my phone out of reach

• Always wait a couple of seconds before going when the light turns green

• Don’t go over the speed limit

• Share information about how to be safe while driving to friends and family members

• Always leave space for sudden stops or lane changes

• Staying up to date with the road rules and to any new changes

• Most importantly always obey the rules of the road and to the speed limits

• Learn how to drive defensively.