It Only Takes 5 Seconds

It
Only Takes 5 Seconds

Going through the drivers ed course myself, I have been
warned about what a car is capable of and understanding lives are in
my hands when I start a vehicle. Drivers ed is important
because it teaches inexperienced drivers that they are capable of
potentially killing a loved one with a one-ton piece of metal.
Knowing the full capacity of what a vehicle can do, can teach
students to take precautions and be aware of their surroundings.
There are lives in the driver’s hands as soon as the vehicle
starts, and drivers ed emphasizes the behavior inside and
outside the vehicle that could impair driving skills. Distracted
driving includes alcohol and phone usage as well as sleepiness and
anger. Being aware of the distractions and the outcome of what they
cause gives a fearful warning to students and will make them more
aware of their actions and surroundings on the road.

Different states have some laws for new drivers that can be
inconvenient at times, but they are a good idea and have shown to
lower driving related deaths. These steps provide time for new
drivers to get more experience in certain situations, like driving to
and from school, and lessen the distractions such as having too many
people in the car with a new driver. These laws are put in place to
ease new drivers into the responsibility of another person’s life.

Technology advancements have limited phone use during driving and
other applications. Also, including some phone features through
Bluetooth technology helps to keep your eyes on the road, and
therefore your focus. Drivers should put their phone on do not
disturb and there is even a feature that does it automatically when
you step into a vehicle. New cars are coming out that can self-drive.
If we have the technology to sense the road, cars could potentially
detect if the driver has their phone in their hand. People should
also trust themselves to know when they are not fit to drive – due
to alcohol or other substances. Having a designated driver is a
simple solution, and there have also been new companies on various
platforms that can pick people up (Uber, Lyft, etc….).

I have never been in a car accident, however: I have seen unsafe
driving as a young child. At this age, my father often focused on
his phone and responded to work emails while behind the wheel. Now,
as a driver, I remember those unsettling moments and set my phone to
do not disturb. When others are driving, I often offer to respond to
text messages for them in order to maintain a safe driving
experience. I am also very vocal about my feelings towards unsafe
drivers and tell my friends that texting while driving is not
happening. Most of the time, this is well received. It only takes 5
seconds of intoxicated/distracted driving to end a life. It is
important to go thorough drivers ed to learn what a diver is
capable of.