Essay Prompt: What steps can you take to be a better and safer driver as well as help others become safer on the road?

Distracted driving is defined as anything that takes the driver’s attention and focus away from the road. Distractions can be categorized into three types: visual (such as phones or things seen along the road), manual (letting your hand leave the wheel to pick up something such as biting a burger), and cognitive (being mentally zoned out or daydreaming). We have all experienced the moment sitting at the traffic light waiting for it to turn green, only to wait a little longer because we notice the driver in front of us is looking down, distracted by something. Or the bolder individuals, that simply have their phones or device in plain view and are actively scrolling. While there are several aforementioned types of distractions, the use of a cell phone while driving remains the predominant form of distraction in Georgia, contributing to the majority of accidents in the state and nation.

In Georgia, where I reside, texting and driving is against the law. According to USAA News (2023), Georgia ranks sixth for most distracted driving accidents in the U.S., with a rate of 15.5 percent, higher than the national average of 12.1 percent. These statistics are very alarming, and the consequences of engaging in this behavior can prove very dangerous. The consequence of receiving a ticket doesn’t compare to being ultimately responsible for causing serious bodily harm to myself or others. As a teenager, I cannot imagine life without my phone, as I have grown dependent on it for many aspects of my daily life. However, I understand that sending, reading, or receiving a message is not more important than my life or the life of another individual. While there are several ways to prevent texting and driving, I consistently use the following habits to be a safer driver.

One simple but useful habit is using voice commands to call someone instead of attempting to text. Many of my friends send hundreds of texts, but I personally prefer engaging in an old-fashioned conversation with people over text. Even if this gesture is not the preference of the person I am communicating with, they oblige if they desire communication from me. What I have found is that most text messages or responses are not urgent, so they can call if I am driving or simply wait. Most phones respond to voice commands, and this feature is a much safer alternative to texting. I am aware that the same voice commands can send a text, however, from my experience, I found myself looking at the phone to see if the command generated the correct message to the right person. It was taking too much attention from the road. Just call.

Another tip or habit I engage in is frontloading the things I would typically want to use my phone for before I put the car in drive. I love music, so I set my desired playlist before leaving. Additionally, I set my GPS for my destination so that I am not manipulating any device while in motion. I have a quirky habit of setting the GPS even when I know where I am going, so in case of detours or road closures, I will be informed. Being cognizant of the things that will produce the urge for me to grab my phone allows me to get ahead of it before I head out. This method ensures that I am not distracted while driving and can focus entirely on the road ahead.

Lastly, a dashboard phone holder can be helpful in preventing texting and driving. Many newer cars are equipped with hands-free technology, but some older ones are not. Having a dashboard phone holder will allow you to use your phone's GPS without holding it in your hand while driving. Additionally, if you want to give your phone certain commands, it will be in your direct line of sight if it's in a holder in front of you. This will prevent you from looking down and help keep your eyes on the road.

I am a novice driver, having only been driving for three years, but I engage in these simple habits to keep myself safe while driving and to ensure the safety of others. Driving is a huge responsibility, and I drive for myself and the other drivers. It only takes seconds for driving to produce a disastrous outcome, so devoting a few minutes to proactively being safe is worth it. It is my sincere goal to “Arrive Alive” as the saying adorned on my billboards throughout my state.