The importance of having the right tools and knowledge before getting behind the wheel is very significant. When one is behind the wheel of a vehicle they need to fully understand how to drive in a safely manner, not only for their own safety but as well as the safety of others. In 2024 approximately 40,990 people lost their lives in the United States due to car wrecks according to my research. This number does not include the people that have gotten hit by a vehicle or a vehicle wrecking into a home or building causing more accidents and tragedy. I feel as though people should not only be aware of the other vehicles around them but also bicyclists and people walking/running alongside the road. Lots of people get severely injured from being hit by a moving vehicle. That is why we have speed limit regulations in different zones of the road. For example, a school zone and construction zone are typically always marked at a significantly lower speed than other areas to help prevent anyone running into or over someone in that area.
I believe we can decrease that number with furthering people's knowledge in safe driving. Some steps one can take in order to help decrease accidents in today’s world could be improving driver behavior, enforcing traffic laws, as well as enhancing road safety infrastructure, including promoting the use of wearing a seatbelt, making sure when driving they are not distracted and aware of the speed limit set for the zone they are driving in. If your vehicle is not in good condition to be driving you should never risk operating the vehicle because it would result in an accident causing yourself along with others harm. After confirming your vehicle is safe to drive following the steps of ensuring you are ready to give your undivided attention to drive to your desired location can help lower the rate of wrecks in the United States.
Unfortunately, I have lost a friend from a wreck. The two girls were so young and they were headed home from dress shopping for the upcoming prom at our high school. The friend that was driving did survive although she is now in a wheelchair and has lost all movement in her low limbs causing many obstacles to accrue in her day to day life. As for the passenger, she did pass away in the wreck. This is a horrible situation for everyone involved and such a horrific tragedy. As they were coming across a stop they did not stop at the stop sign and that resulted in getting “T-boned” by a semi which led to the incident. Not only was this a horrific tragedy for the ones in the accident but as well as the family and friends who lost a loved one. It has impacted so many people in many different ways. Taking the time to stop and follow safe driving is so important to help avoid horrific accidents like this one and so many other incidents.
Some steps I myself can take is always starting by checking the vehicle before getting in, such as making sure all the tires are in good condition and the vehicle is in safe condition to be operating. Once in the vehicle it is important to ensure the seatbelt is latched for everyone in the vehicle and I can see clearly through all mirrors and windows. When one is operating the vehicle on the road the driver needs to be aware of the surroundings on the road as well as the speed limit. In today's generation a lot of people have gotten into the habit of using their phone or looking at their phone while driving. A way to avoid this could be making sure your music or GPS is already set and ready to go before putting the vehicle in drive. Another way is putting your phone in driving mode, as well as “do not disturb.” Doing this can help prevent the temptation of looking at your phone while driving if you receive a notification. If you need to do anything on your phone it is always the best option to find a good stop to park your vehicle before grabbing your phone that way you are not distracted while driving. Furthermore, I will always encourage anyone in my life to follow safe driving so they can get to their destination in a secure manner.