Stay Focused, Stay Alive

Stay Focused, Stay Alive

Every time someone gets into a vehicle, they become a variable in an equation of life and death. Driver education is absolutely invaluable in reducing the number of deaths that result from driving. Those learning to drive may think they understand what is involved and that they can handle it without driver education. However, driver education provides critical information that helps young drivers better comprehend the responsibility that comes along with getting behind the wheel.

According to the Association for Safe International Road Travel, 38,000 people die in automobile accidents each year. This organization states that one of the major contributing factors to the staggering number of accidents is unsafe driver behaviors. By mandating comprehensive driver education programs, whether provided virtually or in person, states can increase young drivers’ knowledge and preparation before they begin driving by themselves. Although budget cuts have eliminated in school driver’s education, states should reconsider funding this effective program. In school driver’s education ensures that all students receive both classroom and practical behind-the-wheel training with a qualified adult.

I am fortunate because I have not been in an accident involving irresponsible driving. However, I have observed family members texting while at stop signs or traffic lights. Although the vehicle was not moving at the time, drivers should not use their phones unless it is through the vehicle’s integrated hands-free technology. The first reason for this is that it is the law. Secondly, even though the car is stopped, it is important to remain alert to one’s surroundings, the car’s operation, and other drivers. Unfortunately, I have seen several serious accidents at four-way stops caused by inattentive drivers. Using hands-free technology helps drivers stay locked in to the task at hand – safe driving!

The steps I can take to be a better and safer driver are to remain humble in my approach to driving. Every time I get behind the wheel, I take a moment to remember that a moving car is a weapon of sorts. This keeps me focused on safe driving and alert to what is going on around me. I am committed to NEVER operating a vehicle while impaired in any way. Another thing I can do is to ensure my vehicle is in safe working condition by getting it serviced regularly and routinely checking the tire pressure and wear, lights, horn, and brakes. To help others become safer on the road, I can encourage other young drivers to take driver education seriously. I can also lead by example by never driving while impaired or overly fatigued and by obeying the laws of the road. Driving is a privilege, not a right. A solid driver’s education program is a foundational component to improving the road safety while decreasing the leading cause of death in the US for people between the ages of 1 and 54. Each and every driver must accept the personal responsibility to be safer and better drivers when getting behind the wheel.