“In the Drivers Seat”

Through the recent
years, the development of automated cars has given hope to a new
future without the need of driving. Although this prospect is
intriguing, the need for road safety is still at an absolute high. As
cities grow denser and transportation becomes more necessary, it is
imperative that there is a common understanding of the dangers that
arise when on the road. Three million people in the United States are
injured or killed due to irrational decisions on the road, a lack of
knowledge of driving, and mistakes that can spiral out of control due
to lack of proper education.

Because Driving
courses are so expensive, many people choose to learn how to drive
from a friend or relative. Although this alternative seems like a
good choice when compared to the long, expensive and challenging
efforts of drivers ed, the long run results of this
alternative is a group of drivers who are not as knowledgeable and
experienced as they should be. This lack of formal training can lead
to misunderstandings and mistakes when done in practice. The
teachers, either parents or friends, can pass down dangerous habits
or misinformation that can be fatal to a student. Many people don’t
see harm in using a phone while driving or carrying out reckless
behavior, because that’s what they learned from their friend or
parent. As a result, the recklessness is passed to a new generation
of drivers. As well as not having the correct information taught to
them, a lack of severity and light hearted manner can be passed down
to the act of driving. A driving school will teach a student that
driving is life or death and a mistake can kill people while a parent
may teach from experience by saying, “it’s only illegal when the
police see you.” Although lighthearted and fun, a lack of perceived
danger can be fatal.

Many steps have
been taken to prevent fatal accidents. Rates of drunk driving and
distracted driving have decreased due to a greater awareness of the
issue. Although these rates have decreased, impatience or road rage
can’t be fixed through the same manners. In order to decrease peoples
need to get somewhere as fast as possible or take revenge on a
selfish driving decision, a greater understanding of the dangers
involved in these mindsets must be taught. The only way to manage the
subject of driving in this manner is through a driving class.

As for the moment,
drivers can’t be retaught what they know or feel. For the new wave of
drivers going out onto the roads, a higher level of courtesy and
awareness of their actions must be applied. Although common and
simple, driving is a dangerous and fatal action when done
incorrectly. Drivers ed is a necessary process for everybody
to go through to ensure a unified understanding of road rules and
edicate as well as an understanding of the true dangers of driving.