In 2021, 121 people died as a result of a plane crash. This statistic may be enough to scare someone away from never flying. Many people hate flying for fear of the plane crashing. According to The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, about 42,939 lives were lost in 2021 alone due to automobile accidents. Yet, we will easily step into a car without fear. Road accidents are more common and fatal than you may be aware of. Car crashes continue to claim a significant number of lives. There is a startling need for more driver education and awareness programs that can enhance drivers' skills, promote responsible behavior, and ultimately save lives. Legislation is not the only thing that can keep drivers safe, personal commitment to being a safe driver helps you and everyone you pass on the road.
           Implementing comprehensive driver education programs, both in schools and as part of the licensing process, is essential. These programs should cover the technical aspects of driving and address the psychological and behavioral elements that influence decision-making on the road. Teaching defensive driving techniques is essential for drivers to feel safer on the road, as well as be able to respond quickly to dangers on the road. Defensive driving techniques include:



Maintaining a safe following distance (4 seconds is recommended in regular driving conditions behind a vehicle your size).


Being aware of one's surroundings by avoiding distractions such as checking your phone or playing loud music.


Anticipating potential hazards.


           Traffic laws and enforcement are crucial to maintaining safe highways. We can develop stricter laws regarding seat belt usage, phone usage, driving under the influence, and speed limit enforcement. The public must be aware of the risks of dangerous driving and the consequences distracted driving can have. Public awareness campaigns and educational programs for students can raise general knowledge on these issues. Educational classes for students, such as B.R.A.K.E.’s, are extremely useful for learning defensive driving techniques. I took a class from B.R.A.K.E.’s, and I learned what to do if I drive off the road, how to make a hard stop, how to swerve around objects safely, and how to counter-steer in the event I spin out. Learning this in a safe environment made me feel more comfortable about driving, and I am more prepared to face dangerous driving situations.
           It is essential to continue driving education, even after you pass the driver's test. Learning is a never-ending process, so staying updated and aware of highway and traffic laws and safety guidelines is important. Avoiding distractions such as your phone, the radio, and even people in your car is essential for your safety, as well as the safety of everyone else on the road. Additionally, respecting the law is just as important as knowing the law. Following speed limits, wearing seat belts, and obeying traffic signals are fundamental practices. If you promote safe driving to friends and family, it can have a ripple effect. If you notice someone who is driving you that is not practicing safe driving, it is important to speak up. Their safety is in their hands, when you are in their car, so is your own, and everyone on the road.
           Maintaining a following distance is extremely important on the highway. Recently, my dad was in a car accident. His car was a Ford Fiesta, a relatively small car. Two cars, a Tahoe, and a pickup truck, drove behind him. The pickup truck rear-ended the Tahoe, and the Tahoe was launched into his car. As a result, my dad's car was totaled. If the Tahoe had maintained a further distance between my dad's car and itself, his car would not have been touched. This is just one example of why it is important to maintain at least a four-second following distance between you and the car in front of you. I am lucky this story ends with the car being totaled, not something far worse.
Driver education plays a crucial role in reducing the number of automobile accidents and deaths. Implementing comprehensive education programs, promoting defensive driving, enforcing traffic laws, and raising public awareness are integral steps in creating a safer road environment. It is not enough to teach you how to be a safe driver, you have to make a commitment to drive safely. Personal commitment to continuous learning, avoiding distractions, respecting traffic laws, and promoting safe driving among peers are individual actions that contribute to becoming a better and safer driver, ultimately helping to save lives on the road.