In The Driver's Seat

As my parents would always say, “Not only are you driving for yourself, but you are driving for everyone else.” From that moment, every rule, instruction, and guidance my parents presented me with was never dismissed. After receiving my permit and learning how to drive, I have noticed many distractions from drivers on the road that could have resulted in minor or major car collisions. Safe and smart driving skills can help decrease distractions that include putting on makeup, eating, utilizing electronic devices, fatigue, adjusting the heat, etc. Many may assume that participating in these actions might not appear to be a big deal, however accidents can occur in the blink of an eye. Surveys reveal that most car accidents happen between one to five miles of the driver's home which is why drivers ed is so important. Having the knowledge and practice of safe driving skills could reduce many fatal accidents from occurring by knowing what quick decision to make in an anticipated situation.

Although decreasing distracted driving may seem simple just by paying attention to the road and not participating in the activities listed above, but there are many other ways one can take part in preventing accidents. One way to decrease the number of deaths caused by unsafe driving could be mandating a safe driving course that will educate all drivers about the dangers of reckless behaviors. Before allowing one to receive their license, it should be required to pass a test following a defensive driving course with a specific percent of accuracy to ensure that one knows the laws, rules, and regulations of how to reduce driving risks.

Fortunately, I have never personally experienced a car accident but I have been a witness to them as well as closely avoiding them by the fast reaction of my parents. There have been times where I have seen the other driver display careless driving behaviors such as texting and driving, applying makeup; all which could place the driver and others at risk of an accident. This goes to show that not only do you have to drive for yourself, but you have to drive for others in cases that require you to react quickly. No matter how experienced of a driver one may consider themselves, at no point should risky behaviors take place while behind the wheel. Even though it may take a minute at most to send off a text, that is still enough time for an accident to occur as the drivers’ eyes are being taken off the road.

All in all, regardless of the many distractions that could result in accidents and/or fatalities, I believe that the most common distraction is the use of mobile devices. Because of this, I think that everyone, including myself, should take one second to enable “do not disturb” until you have reached your destination. This is one major step that we all can take in order to be a better and safer driver in keeping ourselves and others safe. Sending a text message that could wait is not worth risking your life as well as the lives of others. Another step I can take is to obey the law and know right from wrong. It is essential that one keeps in mind the rules and regulations of driving and reminds others about them as people tend to bend or ignore them. Just by abiding by the laws put into place, we all can decrease the amount of deaths caused by reckless driving which will ensure a safer community as we continue to teach the next generation by being a positive role model.