The Steps We Can Take

The
Steps We Can Take

The
first time my sister drove we almost crashed into our neighbor’s
tree. Even when it came time for me to pass my own license test, I
was nowhere being the safest driver on the road. Noone is perfect
when they first start driving. However, by learning as much as you
can and engaging in nondistracting or inhibiting behavior, you can
help reduce accidents.

Driver
education is critical in reducing accidents and deaths among drivers.
Before even operating a vehicle, a driver should be able to recognize
important signs and indicators on the road. Many drivers’ education
courses cover their states driving laws, road signage, and basic
operations instructions, however, education courses could do more to
teach drivers. Covering car maintenance and common issues that can
cause vehicle failure can help prevent some future accidents.
Discussing the extreme effects of distracted driving and driving
while under the influence are also measures drivers’ education
could cover to prevent drivers from engaging in risky behavior.

Even
with proper education, drivers can still become a danger to one
another. Distracted driving is the most common cause of
vehicle-related accidents and it is easy to see why. When people hear
their phone buzz with a text message or a call, they feel the urge to
respond. However, answering your phone takes the necessary attention
off the road that could be important in avoiding an accident. Even
checking your phone at a stoplight can impair your decision making.
Simply putting your phone away or turning it on silent can help
prevent accidents by helping focus your attention on the road.

To
create a safer road for everyone it is each individual’s
responsibility to know their limits while driving especially in
regards to drinking. Drunk driving is one of the greatest sources for
vehicle deaths. Moreover, victims are often the sober occupant rather
than the drunk driver. These accidents lead to irreversible losses
and permanently impact everyone involved, families, and communities.
However, everyone can create a safer environment by planning ahead.
If you want to go drinking, stay with friends and designate a driver.
When it’s clear that no one can drive home safely, pay for a ride.
Offer to let a friend stay over if they plan to drink and stay firm
in not allowing them to drive home when it is clear they are
impaired.

Drivers
education is important to prepare beginning drivers to operate a
vehicle responsibly, foundational knowledge of signs and laws, as
well as risks inherent in driving a vehicle. While stronger course
material could be a step to preventing even more vehicle-related
deaths, driver responsibility is also important. Drivers must work to
eliminate distractions that divide their attention on the road. When
situations arise where a driver cannot guarantee they will operate a
vehicle safely they should make plans so that they avoid taking the
wheel. Going beyond personal responsibility by encouraging others to
drive safely also important. All of these actions can create a better
driving environment for everyone.