Stay Alert, Don’t Get Hurt

On Sunday, October 16, 2022, tragedy struck the community of Hawai’i when 18-year-old Maui Kamokukaulanaina Easton Marley Ellis-Noa lost his life in a devastating car crash. The incident occurred on Napo’opo’o Road, where Ellis-Noa was driving at an excessive speed, leading to the fatal accident. The news of his sudden and untimely death spread quickly, causing grief and sorrow among his family, friends, and the wider community. The impact of such an event can be felt far beyond the immediate family and friends of the victim. The community also feels the weight of the tragedy, as they are left to mourn the loss of a member of their community. He was a young man with his whole life ahead of him, only for it to be taken away in an instant. The police took him to Kona Community Hospital, but it was too late. Maui Kamokukaulanaina Easton Marley Ellis-Noa will be remembered forever in our hearts and in the community of Hawai’i. The tragedy served as a grim reminder of the dangers of reckless driving and the importance of road safety measures.

In such cases, it is important to remember the importance of safe driving practices. Teenagers, in particular, can benefit greatly from driver education classes, which teach them the rules and regulations of the road, such as traffic laws, safe driving practices, and defensive driving techniques. They also learn how to identify and respond to various driving hazards and situations, such as inclement weather, road construction, and emergency vehicles. Driver’s education classes are designed to provide young drivers with the knowledge and skills necessary to safely operate a vehicle on the road.

One of the biggest advantages of driver education classes is that they provide a safe and controlled environment for teens to practice driving. With a certified instructor present, teenagers can get behind the wheel and practice their driving skills in a supervised setting. These experiences help students build confidence and competence behind the wheel, while also learning how to navigate challenging driving scenarios. This ensures that they have the necessary skills to drive safely on the road when they eventually obtain their driver’s license. Additionally, driver education classes also cover the effects of drugs, alcohol, and distracted driving on the ability to operate a vehicle safely. Teenagers often have a higher risk of engaging in risky behavior while driving, making it crucial for them to understand the potential consequences of these actions.

There are various ways to reduce the number of deaths related to driving, and it is important to take action on all fronts to ensure safer roads for everyone. One way to reduce deaths related to driving is to encourage the use of public transportation, walking, or cycling as alternatives to driving. This can be achieved by improving public transportation infrastructure, making cities more walkable and bike-friendly, and promoting these alternatives through public awareness campaigns. By reducing the number of cars on the road, the risk of accidents and fatalities can be significantly reduced. Additionally, public transportation, walking, and cycling can provide many health and environmental benefits, such as reducing air pollution and promoting physical activity. Another way to reduce deaths related to driving is to implement stricter laws and penalties for reckless and impaired driving. This can include increasing fines, license suspension, and even imprisonment for drivers who break the law. It can also involve the use of technology such as ignition interlock devices and breathalyzers to prevent drunk driving. By increasing the consequences for dangerous driving behavior, drivers are more likely to think twice before engaging in risky behavior on the road. These measures can also help deter other drivers from engaging in similar behavior, ultimately making the roads safer for everyone.

As a responsible driver, I understand the importance of staying focused on the road to ensure my safety and the safety of others. One way I plan to be a better and safer driver is by avoiding any distractions, especially when it comes to using my phone while driving. I have noticed that when I connect my phone to the Bluetooth option in my car, it diverts my attention from the road, which can be extremely dangerous. Therefore, I have decided to not connect my phone to Bluetooth while driving. Additionally, I have noticed that even when my phone is not connected, I am still distracted by incoming calls and texts. To prevent this, I plan to put my phone on “do not disturb” mode or use a driving focus app while driving. This way, anyone trying to contact me knows that I am driving and will respond when I reach my destination safely. By taking these steps to be a safer driver, I hope to set a positive example for others and encourage them to do the same. It’s important to prioritize safety while driving and make responsible choices to protect ourselves and others on the road.

In addition to being a safer driver myself, I also plan to help others become safer on the road. One way I can do this is by emphasizing the importance of buckling up before starting the car. Many accidents can be prevented or their impact minimized by wearing seat belts. I will also encourage others to follow the rules of the road while being aware of their surroundings and other cars. It’s also important to never drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol, and to avoid distractions such as eating, putting on makeup, or using a handheld phone while driving.

To help others be safer on the road, I plan on sharing these tips with my friends and family, as well as encouraging them to take defensive driving courses. These courses can provide valuable information and hands-on experience for safe driving practices, and can also help drivers become more aware of their own driving habits and areas for improvement. Additionally, I plan on reminding those around me to always wear their seatbelts and to never drive under the influence. By taking these steps and encouraging others to do the same, we can all work together to make the roads safer and prevent tragic accidents.