Shattered

“I was just in a horrible car accident. I am okay, but the car is not.” These words rolled off my sister’s lips as she leaned in, hugging me, and attempting to ease my distress. As the bell rang, I stood in the hallway with many questions running through my head.

The importance of drivers ed plays a prominent role in reducing the number of deaths as a result of driving. Among new drivers, driver’s education dramatically reduces the number of crashes and traffic or alcohol-related violations. Drivers ed teaches what to do in the case of weather situations such as snow or black ice, traffic situations, and being more alert for pedestrians or animals. It educates students to drive safely.

To reduce the number of deaths related to driving, I encourage others before they exit a parking spot, to make sure their passengers and themselves are buckled. If anything were to happen, a seat belt makes sure they would stay more protected and safe. Also, drivers should make sure they are alert when they drive. Drifting in other people’s lanes or not seeing an animal can have significant consequences that should be avoided. Before entering an intersection or going through a green light, drivers should check to make sure there is no traffic heading their way. To ensure everyone’s safety, they should not drive too fast or too slow.

I have been in one car accident before, but I would say it was not due to irresponsibility. My sister was driving up a hill in the wintertime when we hit black ice. The back end of our car spun out a few times, and we were saved from going down a steep hill by a small tree.

To become a better and safer driver myself and helping others become safer, I can encourage others to drive the speed limit. When there are dangerous conditions such as rain, ice, or snow, I can inspire myself and others to drive cautiously and leave earlier to avoid speeding. One thing that appeals to teens or adults these days is phone use. “It is just a quick text or snap chat, it is not a big deal.” I disagree with this excuse. When you text, you are twenty-three times more likely to be in an accident than if you did not use your phone. Texting slows your brake reaction speed by eighteen percent, increasing the chance of being in a fatal accident. The Virginia Tech Transportation Institute said, “Texting while driving is the same as driving blind for five seconds at a time. That’s like traveling the length of a football field while going fifty-five miles per hour.” Nothing is more important than life. Putting yourself or others in danger for a text or snap chat is not worth it and can wait.

James Dean once said, “Take it easy driving- the life you save may be mine.”