Foot Off the Gas: Solutions to a Safer Driving Experience

Driving is not only a privilege, but also a responsibility. Today, the minimum driving age in South Dakota is 14 years old. Adults sharing the roads with middle-schoolers can be a dangerous thought. If all drivers are well informed, educated, and equipped, concerns should be kept to a minimum. However, with thousands dying each year in accidents and traffic-related incidents, it is easy to state that much can be done to improve the state of safe driving in the United States. Driver education is crucial in reducing the number of driving-related deaths. Drivers Ed is a common program that is offered at both the DMV and many high schools in South Dakota. It also offers many benefits, such as lower insurance rates, and peace of mind for many adults that feel outpaced by the growth and new responsibilities of their children. As a former Driver’s Ed student, I felt equipped, confident, and trained to take on the responsibility of driving. However, Driver’s Education is not required. Many adults choose to sign their children up for the program to maximize their safety on the roads. On the other hand, some families do not have the extra money or time to send their children to these courses. Because of their situations, they decide to have their children obtain licenses and permits through a one-time test at the DMV. 

While the tests are well formulated to gauge a driver’s capability and skill, the person behind the wheel has learned far less than someone who has completed a Driver’s Education course. For example, Driver’s Ed teaches special scenarios, such as extreme weather conditions, vehicle failure, and other lessons that cannot be taught during a half hour test at the DMV. This puts both the driver and others that they share the road with at a much higher level of danger. A simple solution would be to incorporate Driver’s Education into the daily lives of students. Adding Driver’s Education as a high school credit would further incorporate training into the student life; it would be essential to master driving before graduating. Creating a free Driver’s Ed program, or simply requiring further driving training before granting a license are just a few more solutions to the problem of traffic danger that South Dakota and the rest of the United States faces. Driver’s Education addresses just one of the few traffic problems today. 

Weather, and vehicle maintenance add to the chaos that many drivers face on the road. One solution to this problem includes requiring mandatory vehicle inspections by automobile sellers and service providers. This would help to negate the many instances of brake system failure, tire problems, and airbag malfunctions that only add to the number of deaths every year. Stricter laws regarding phone usage and other distractions could also be implemented to strengthen the engagement between the driver and the road. Unfortunately, I have been in a car accident before. I was excited; it was the first soccer practice of the season. I had driven the route many times in previous years, as this was the quickest way to school. Music blasting and energy high, I failed to make a smart driving decision. After yielding to the stop sign, I checked left and right, ready to pull out. Similar to the phrase “in one ear and out the other,” I looked, but did not see. In my black Ford Focus, I pulled out in front of a loaded pickup truck. I didn’t stand a chance. A loud bang, and I was sent spiraling into a 180-degree spin. Totaled is a fitting description of my car. I was shocked. I never pictured myself getting into a car accident. The confidence I had as a driver was wrecked. It was a good week before I backed out of the driveway again. Ever since that day, I have made an effort to be aware while driving. Left, right, left, right, left swings my head in a conscious—an almost anxious—effort to scan my surroundings. Humbled from a life-threatening firsthand experience, I learned that the road is something to be respected, not trampled on. 

Distractions only pile on to the list of challenges for drivers. Eating, loud music, and of course, the phone, are just a few of the common distractions drivers face. Essential for the lifestyle for many, and even considered and addiction for some, phone usage while driving has only increased as phones have become more advanced. it would be cliche to ramble on with the phrase “don’t text and drive”. However, this advice is to be taken seriously. While hands-free technology, driving assist, and even self-driving cars have begun to claim a place on the road, it is pertinent that drivers make safe, positive choices, including putting the phone down. Minimizing distractions, driving with a clear head, and recognizing that the road is to be shared, not dominated, can lead to safer roads for all of us. As a teenage boy, the thought of cool cars and fast driving intrigues us; it is almost as if we are wired that way. As a resident near the infamous Veterans Parkway, I have seen firsthand the consequences of racing. Totaled cars, injuries, and even death heavily outweigh the thrill and “bragging rights” of any victor. It is pertinent to remember—as the roads grow ever busier—that the focus of every driver is required for the safety of all. Do your part and drive safely.