Motor vehicle accidents (MVA) does not discriminate. Anyone regardless of their age, sex, religion, and economic status can be involved in a serious car accident. I was born with a rare genetic disorder called Osteogenesis Imperfecta, which makes my bones brittle. My whole life I have been very suspectable to fractures with little to no physical impact. I had to avoid contact sports and be overall cautious with any physical activity. When I began to drive, I knew that there were countless risks just being behind the wheel. The thought of getting into a car accident resulting in fractures, paralysis or even death scared me, but I knew that with proper drivers’ education I could partake in reducing those risks. When I am on the road, I think about not just myself. I think about the elder woman who may have osteoporosis, or the mom who has her newborn baby, or even the truck driver who probably has been driving long hours. We could all be seriously hurt if we don’t follow the rules and make responsible decisions on the road.
Drivers’ education should not be an option, I believe it should be mandatory for everyone on the road. The importance of learning how to drive safely can drastically reduce the number of deaths related to MVAs. According to The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (2020), 5 million traffic crashes take place per year and on average 1 person is killed every fourteen minutes. The reasons why drivers get into these accidents range from being distracted such as being on your phone, being fatigued, drivigng under the influence, or not following proper driving protocols. This is why it is essential to take driving courses and being educated on the consequences and impact their actions have on the community.
Steps should be taken to aid in the reduction of vehicular accidents. These steps can include mandatory annual driving courses that review the safety and rules of the road. This can also be followed by driving exam and remediation if necessary. Driving is a privilege, and drivers need to understand the importance of a refresher course. Drivers may forget certain traffic rules, laws, and regulations. Nurses, physicians, and many other professionals are required to renew their license by completing continued education courses, to keep up to date on any changes and refresh their minds. Drivers should be held to similar standards and expectations, because they as well have lives in their hands. Another step that can be taken is promoting responsible driving habits such as avoiding distractions, maintaining alertness, and following safety rules. These steps can be promoted in schools via brochures, or social media posts.
When I was younger, I experienced a situation that could have resulted in a serious car accident. I was in the back seat with my uncle driving when he swerved and came to a sudden stop to avoid a collision with another vehicle. Although, there was no impact, it caused my body to jerk forcefully and as a result my elbow become dislocated. Since then, it became apparent to me that a crash can occur at any moment and one can become seriously injured. I have also witnessed friends driving recklessly with no consideration of others. These friends did not take any drivers education. This truly upset me and encouraged me to express my knowledge and experiences of driving safely on the road. I plan to educate and enroll my future children into drivers’ education because I understands its significance. My steps are also to discuss my concerns and ideas to my fellow peers in hopes they will also begin to recognize the difference it can make to our community.
It is imperative that new and or experienced drivers take the responsibility of undergoing drivers’ courses. It is not only important but necessary for everyone to acknowledged how driving can be dangerous if one is not properly educated. Driving skills, knowledge, intuition comes with preparedness. This is why all drivers need to take the time to not only review education material but also talk about this topic amongst the community. Awareness and outreach regarding the dangers of the road is pivotal. Children, adults, and even your pets can be seriously harmed on the road and the only way to help reduce the number of accidents and deaths is by taking the necessary curriculum. As a community we want to promote a safe driving culture where others can feel safe and confident driving on the road. Remember driving is a privilege and should be respected.