Starting the engine, a common aspect of our daily routine. An aspect many of us participate in, and forget the realities of what we are undertaking. As drivers we place not only our own lives on the line, but also the lives of every other person on the road. Unfortunately, it often takes a tragedy, injury or collision to jar us from how lightly we take getting behind the wheel. Wouldn’t it be wonderful if every single one of us could remember just how much responsibility we carry without deaths, injuries, or damages? What can we do to get closer to this ideal? How do we create lasting change that will keep us all safer?
To start, education is one of the most powerful tools we have. What we learn when we first start driving creates a foundation for how we will drive for the rest of our lives. Drivers ed classes teach the basic rules of the road, but also instruct students in defensive driving tactics. These are some of the most valuable skills we can have. Not everyone chooses to start their car leaving distractions behind, and keeping the safety of themselves and others in mind. Our best chance of getting safely from point a to point b, is being able to predict, react to, and prevent possible collisions.
Next, we can encourage those close to us to drive more safely. Of course it is uncomfortable to discuss unsafe practices, but should that deter us from saving lives? After my father in-law passed away from a collision with a semi-truck, I say no way. We will never know what caused him to swerve into oncoming traffic, but how I wish we could have prevented it! Feeling ill? Don’t get behind the wheel! Got a text message that might be important? It can wait! Sleepy? Pull over! If you truly care for someone don’t be afraid to warn them of choices that are placing their lives in danger.
Finally, we come to the most important step in making our roads a safer place for everyone. As Michael Jackson would say, start with the man in the mirror. We each need to take an honest look at our own habits and behaviors. For me, it did take losing someone to remind me how dangerous driving can be. I finally recognized there were aspects of my driving habits that needed to change. Please, don’t wait until your world is turned upside down. It’s not a race, it’s not a contest, speeding doesn’t save time, driving aggressively doesn’t solve anything. We all are trying to get somewhere and trying to accomplish something. Let’s all get there safely together.