Unless There Are Zombies

 

We all know that plane crashes, meteorites coming to Earth, or the zombie apocalypse can happen to any of us, but how many young drivers understand just how dangerous simply driving can be? Even without the presence of alcohol, other mind-altering substances, or other drivers on the road causing accidents, the simple act of driving is the leading cause of death for people in my age group; a truly sobering thought.

While nobody wants to admit that they may be engaging in risky, distracted behavior on the road, the truth is they most likely are. I know I am.

One of the main behaviors I catch myself contributing to is changing my music while behind the wheel. If the playlist isn’t the right vibe or a song I used to like just isn’t good anymore, my first instinct is to either use the touch panel or Spotify to switch it, something I’ve seen many friends and family members do. Even if my phone is secure in a mounted phone holder, it doesn’t make it any less dangerous to use it, even for 5 seconds. To change my habit, I use Google Assistant or make sure the music I want is what’s playing before I hit the road. 

Beyond the screens is another risk, which seems harmless or even interesting but can cause serious issues: landmarks and other attractions outside the vehicle. Personally, if  I’m in a new area that has really cool features, be it architecture or a parade or what have you, it’s easy to spend way too much time trying to check it out and not nearly enough making sure I’m not about to crash. To work on this, I have already begun to plan trips and vacations in a way where I can return to said landmarks later on to get a good look instead of only planning to see the most interesting places once. 

The “rubbernecking” that takes place in these situations can also be compared to less fortunate ones; existing crashes and other causes of traffic. According to Belluck Law, 10 to 16% of all traffic accidents are caused as a result of rubbernecking, where drivers are so distracted by the accident being taken care of that they end up causing another one. I’m making it a goal to always focus on keeping myself and those around me safe when an accident or obstacle is being cleaned up on the road, because keeping the traffic moving is far more important than me getting a glimpse of the scene. 

Finally, and while it’s hard to admit, having friends in the car can present a safety risk like no other. If they’re being loud or even doing things that might impair your ability to concentrate, it can be challenging to get them to stop. Luckily, I will only ever drive friends that I trust (and who trust me), and establish with them before I turn the car on that I will need to focus and can’t engage with them like I would if we were, say, hanging out at someone’s house. On top of that, I will flat out tell them I need silence if I’m in a situation that requires a lot of focus, like parking in a tight space or navigating traffic. The friends who carry that out without complaint are the ones I know I can trust as passengers. 

Driver’s education is one of the most key elements of maintaining safety for everyone on the road. Of course, most teens go through the curriculum when getting their permits and then licenses, but after even just a year, a lot of that knowledge can slip away. Many of us do things while driving, often without thinking, that can impose serious risk for everyone involved. To prevent accidents that would otherwise be fully avoidable, it’s important for drivers to do regular self-reflection on their dangerous behaviors while behind the wheel, then make a conscious effort to resolve them. In addition, teen drivers should consistently refresh their knowledge of road rules and regulations, and never drive drunk or intoxicated. 

While driving during a zombie apocalypse might alter our perception of some of these risk factors, to be completely honest with ourselves, there are many things we as drivers can do to prevent accidents and injuries. Whether it means turning down the music, turning on Do Not Disturb, or asking that one friend to ride with someone else, small adjustments can make a world of difference for our safety and the safety of others.