The Importance of Educating Drivers

Vehicles are the main type of transportation nowadays, but they can also be dangerous, and without proper training, they can be deadly. There are many ways through which you can gain these skills. One way through which you can gain these skills is by asking your parents or loved ones to give you some lessons. Others, usually prefer to hire a private instructor so that he or she can teach them how to drive. Having the proper training can potentially save many lives whether it is believed or not, is up to the driver.

There are around 3,700 people who die from car crashes daily, many of these could have been prevented by having proper education about driving. The top five reasons for fatal car accidents are not wearing a seatbelt, speeding, reckless driving, and using a cell phone while driving, and the number one reason for fatal car accidents is driving under the influence or (DUI) of alcohol or drugs. I have an example using almost all five of these, a lady from my area was killed by another car going over 100 miles per hour. The guy was (1) under the influence, (2) reckless driving, (3) speeding, and (4) driving without a seatbelt. By the end of his trial, he had four different charges against him and will most likely spend the rest of his life in prison. This can be used as a prime example of needing to be educated about the danger of being uneducated about driving.

Even though there are many dangers to driving, there is something that can be done about these. Such as always being insistent that all passengers buckle up in every seat. According to the Motor Vehicle Safety Division of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, this reduces the risk of death and injury by nearly 50%. Or never get behind the wheel if you’re impaired by alcohol or other drugs. Always err on the side of caution, keeping in mind that even one drink compromises your ability to drive safely. Remember, even medication prescribed by a doctor can also be impairing. Always — even when it may be inconvenient — use a designated driver to ensure that you and others arrive safely at your destinations. Never think that being on time for a business meeting or social engagement is worth risking your life and safety — and the lives and safety of others. Always drive at a speed that you are 100% confident is safe. Never determine a safe driving speed based solely on road signs. Always consider the conditions. Never overestimate your ability to multitask. If you think a text message or phone call might be too important to wait, get off the road and bring your car to a full and safe stop. Don’t believe the myth that hands-free phone conversations are safe; more than one study has shown they are on par with drunk driving. Always remember that when it comes to distracted driving your cell phone is not the only culprit. Distractions such as fast food and FM radio dials can also take your eyes and mind off the road. Never fall prey to the belief that it can never happen to you. So when driving, make safety not just your top priority, but your only concern.

I personally have not been affected by any of these. But I do know people from my community that have been affected or have done this. When I was 15, a teacher from a neighboring school was struck by a drunk driver and was in a wheelchair for around a year. And once she got out of the wheelchair, she got into another wreck due to a drunk driver.

Some steps that can be taken and become part of your everyday routine to help prevent car accidents are routine car services, checking your tires, checking fluid levels, and minimizing distractions. Regular servicing can help ensure that your car is running safely and efficiently and can help you avoid expensive repair bills down the line. And Making sure your tires are properly inflated and in good condition is an important part of car safety. Keeping up with regular tire maintenance will help you avoid flat tires, blowouts, and other potential hazards. Make sure your car’s fluid levels are checked regularly to ensure your vehicle is running optimally. Minimizing your distraction can help tremendously. Try to minimize them as much as you can, to help avoid car accidents and possible death.