Safety Above All Else

Every year, it feels like our world is changing for the better. After all, with the rise of technology, artificial intelligence, and globalization, it’s difficult to argue otherwise. While these developments certainly have their benefits, it’s also important to realize the severity of their risks. This idea is epitomized by motor vehicles – a form of transportation so ubiquitous that it feels impossible to imagine a world without them. Despite recent safety advancements, driving is responsible for tens of thousands of deaths annually.

Although I’ve been fortunate enough to avoid an accident thus far, I’ve witnessed countless instances of questionable driving. One situation I clearly recall is when a friend began speeding at 60 miles per hour on a narrow, curved round, essentially blinding him from oncoming traffic. Throughout the journey, I felt immensely worried that we were in danger, forcing me to hold my breath until we arrived at our destination. While we were lucky, had an incoming car been present or a mistake was made, the vehicle would have sped off the road, severely wounding all of us. The memory still makes me uncomfortable riding with non-family members and has influenced the way I think about racing.

Despite speeding being a factor in automobile deaths, there are numerous other causes of the problem. One example is people who drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Numerous surveys have confirmed that these chemicals alter one’s capabilities, making it more difficult to drive a vehicle. This activity has led to a surge in deaths, particularly at night, when visibility is low and sharp senses are required. Likewise, sleepy drivers contribute to the horrifying death toll. With slow reaction times and lower concentration, these drivers often struggle to notice their surroundings, leading to countless injuries every year.

Given these challenges, it is clear that some steps must be taken to protect drivers across the country. One simple solution to this is investing more in driving education, from before individuals obtain their licenses to the present day. When learning the horrifying statistics and stories of the risks associated with driving, all people will feel a deeper urge to act carefully. The mere act of having this education prompts individuals to reflect upon their behavior, indirectly spreading awareness about the issue. Additionally, understanding the severity of the crisis is important in giving specific strategies for reducing risky behavior. For example, when I learned to drive, the emphasis on taking time to make turns helped me realize that driving was not about reaching a destination faster, but instead about being responsible. Ensuring others have their own realizations through these courses can help every person recognize their own contributions to the hazard problems we face today, assuring that our society continues to improve.

Furthermore, numerous steps beyond education can be taken to improve driving standards. For example, various laws passed in certain jurisdictions can penalize behavior that endangers others. A common example of this is recent cell phone laws, which add criminal punishments for drivers who text and drive. When considering the magnitude of the penalty, most feel inclined to avoid the possibility of criminal charges and act appropriately.

While these solutions are reasonable objectives for all drivers to strive towards, there are also numerous steps I can take to influence upcoming drivers in my community. For instance, making a point to keep electronics away from me is crucial. This is an important message to send because technology is becoming an increasingly ingrained element of our daily lives. However, various gadgets also distract drivers from their task on the road, dramatically raising the chances of a deadly collision. Given these facts, my example as a youth driver to reject technology while driving can send a significant message to others to act similarly. Similarly, making a concerted effort to wear seatbelts while encouraging passengers to do so can go a long way in promoting safety. Although this technique is usually overlooked, seatbelts have been tested time and time again, demonstrating how effective they are. Taking this precaution is an easy way for me to encourage others to drive safely.

Overall, automobiles play a fundamental role in all of our lives, transforming the way we travel. Unfortunately, despite their benefits, motor vehicles are also a leading cause of death in the United States. It is imperative upon all drivers, young and old, to heed driving guidance and ensure future generations have a proper understanding of how to travel responsibly. After all, when we set positive examples for others to follow, our world becomes a safer place.