It Only Takes One Time

If you research the most common fears in America today, flying, lightning, and heights are among the top ten. However, when you look at the statistics, you will reasonably question why driving is not on that list. According to the Federal Aviation Administration, Americans have a 1 in 3.37 billion chance of dying on a commercial airplane crash. Comparatively, 34,000 people on average die each year from car accidents in America. These numbers are astounding, yet why do people fear flying while not giving driving a second thought? This is an issue of awareness.

The citizens of America, with special emphasis on new drivers, need to be aware that driving is a serious responsibility. When it is abused, drivers not only endanger their own lives but anyone around them. Drivers ed is foundational in creating awareness and equipping drivers with the knowledge and tools necessary to become a responsible driver. I attended the 911 Driving School run by retired police officers. By providing data on the dangers of alcohol, drugs, and phone usage, my teachers inspired me to be a responsible driver. By sharing their personal encounters with the results of irresponsible driving, my teachers made me determined to drive responsibly for my well-being and the safety of my fellow citizens. Drivers ed can and should teach drivers the gravity of this privilege. Because it equips new drivers with the rules of the rode and wisdom on driving, Drivers ed plays a primary role in reducing driving fatalities.

Two of the leading causes of driving fatalities are distracted and drunk driving. First, to reduce accident fatalities, all drivers must know how many lives are lost because of distracted or drunk driving. Second, the mindset toward distracted or drunk driving must change. Drivers do not recognize what their actions could cost. Why is that? They are either not aware of the extent of the danger, or they view themselves as the exception. “Surely I am a good enough driver to check my phone” is what drivers think until they are in the hospital because of an “important” text. It only takes one time. Finally, the consequences for distracted or drunk driving must be higher. Until drivers realize distracted or drunk driving can never be permitted, the death rates will remain the same.

While I have fortunately never been in an accident, I have witnessed unsafe driving. Many people I know demonstrate the mindset I described above. They are willing to use their phones out of ignorance or pride and thus, place their loved ones in danger.

Change starts by taking personal responsibility. For me, I will continue to put my phone out of reach while driving and stay away from other possible distractions. Furthermore, because I often drive my younger siblings and friends, I will set a good example of what responsible driving looks like. I can spread awareness to my community about the dangers of driving through social media, and encourage drivers to adopt safe habits for driving.