Rafal Reyzer

The Importance of Safe Driving (Essay) + 20 Safety Habits

Author: Rafal Reyzer

The importance of safe driving cannot be stressed enough.

In 2020, 38,824 people were killed in car crashes in the U.S. alone. That number rose to 42, 915 just the following year. That’s a huge number of traffic fatalities! And those are just the reported cases; many more go unreported or undiscovered. So what counts as distracted driving? Anything that takes your attention away from driving can be classified as a distraction and can cause a car accident. This includes things like eating and drinking, changing the radio station, looking at something other than the road ahead, and yes, even using a hands-free device.

Why Driving is Essential And How to Stay Safe?

There are many reasons why having the ability to drive is essential. For one, it allows us to get from place to place much faster than walking or biking. This is especially true when covering a great distance. For example, going on a road trip, or traveling across the country, especially if you are a professional travel writer .

Other benefits include:

  • It gives us a sense of freedom and independence compared to relying on public transportation schedules or asking friends or family for rides all the time.
  • Even though cars require gas and maintenance, which can be expensive, they’re still quicker and more convenient than alternative methods like taking the bus or train.
  • When you have your vehicle, you don’t have to worry about planning around someone else’s schedule. You can come and go as you please!
  • This newfound flexibility extends beyond just traveling from A to B. Now, you can spend more time with family and friends who live further away, since visiting them isn’t such a logistical nightmare anymore.
  • Not only does this save money spent on things like taxis or buses, but it also strengthens relationships that might have otherwise grown distant.

the hazards of irresponsible driving

The Hazards of Irresponsible Driving

Of course, with the privilege of driving, comes responsibility. Driving can be hazardous, destructive,  and even deadly. That is why we are discussing the importance of safe driving in this article. I once had a friend who was traveling from Rio de Janeiro to São Paulo at night, and she died in a car accident on the way. It was a tragedy. She was only 27 years old. Hence, everyone must learn safe driving measures before they ever get behind the wheel of a car. “Only when we have mastered the art of driving safely can we truly enjoy all that the open road has to offer.” Key Takeaway: Driving is important because it is faster than other modes of transportation, it allows for independence, and it can be dangerous if not done properly.

the importance of safe driving - supplementary image

The Importance of Safe Driving

When driving, safety should always be a top priority. Although many benefits come with being a safe driver, some people may not realize them. Here are just a few reasons why staying safe on the road is crucial:

1. It Reduces the Risk of an Accident

This is perhaps the most obvious benefit of driving safely. Traffic accidents are one of the most dangerous global threats to people’s health and life. The problem is aggravated because people injured in accidents are usually young and healthy teen drivers. According to the World Health Organization, around 1.3 million people die in road accidents every year, and about 50 million are injured. Following the rules of the road and paying attention to your surroundings can help reduce your chances of getting into an accident. Even if you’re an experienced driver, things can happen unexpectedly, so it’s always best to be as cautious as possible.

2. Save Money on Car Insurance

Insurance companies typically offer lower rates to drivers who have good records and avoid accidents. If you’re looking to save money on your car insurance premiums, one way to do it is by driving carefully and avoiding any potential mishaps. While saving your hard-earned money should not be the primary reason to practice driving safety, it is a bonus. If you are under 18, your parents can help with this process, but it’s a good idea to be involved and understand rates, coverage, and what makes an insurance company good.

3. Avoiding Costly Traffic Tickets

Getting pulled over and receiving a ticket can be expensive. This is not only in terms of the fine itself but also for the points added to your license, which could lead to higher insurance rates down the line. If you want to avoid these costs, then obeying traffic laws and observing safety practices are crucial. Just remember that even if you think something isn’t worth pulling over for, an officer may disagree. So, err on the side of caution when behind the wheel.

4. Enjoying Peace of Mind Knowing You are Less Likely to Cause an Accident

One worry many drivers face is constantly thinking about what could go wrong out on the open road. When you drive safely, this shouldn’t be much of a concern. Instead, you’ll be able to relax and enjoy the ride without worrying too much about what might happen. These are just a few of the benefits that come with driving safely. So next time you’re behind the wheel, remember to take things slow and be extra cautious. It could end up saving your life and others too. Key Takeaway: Safety should always be a top priority when driving. Following the rules of the road and paying attention to your surroundings can help reduce your chances of getting into an accident.

the importance of defensive driving

The Importance of Defensive Driving

Defensive driving is a set of skills and techniques that drivers use to stay safe on the road. These skills help drivers expect problems, avoid accidents, and make split-second decisions in hazardous situations. You can learn it through formal training programs or by gaining experience behind the wheel. The importance of defensive driving cannot be understated. It could very well save your life or the lives of other people one day. It’s not just about keeping yourself and your passengers, if you have any, safe. Defensive driving also protects people on the road, as well as your property (and theirs). The bottom line is that when everyone drives defensively, our roads are safer for everyone involved.

So what does defensive driving entail?

Essentially, it means being aware of potential dangers on the road and taking steps to avoid them. Knowing the perfect distance between you and the car in front of you can give you a safe braking distance in case of a sudden stop. It also means anything from obeying all posted speed limit signs and yield signs to using extra caution when merging onto a busy highway during rush hour traffic. In short, always drive with caution and never assume that other motorists will do what they’re supposed to do.

More Specific Tips for Safe Driving

  • Obey all posted speed limits even if you think they’re too low. Speeding gives you less time to react if something unexpected happens ahead of you.
  • Keep your eyes peeled for pedestrians, especially near schools or in residential neighborhoods where kids are likely to be walking or biking alongside cars.
  • Be cautious when backing out of parking spots or driveways. Look both ways first.
  • Use extreme caution whenever there’s bad weather, like rain or snow, since these conditions can reduce visibility and traction.
  • Don’t tailgate! If someone’s tailgating you, move over safely so they can pass.
  • Yield to emergency vehicles: Fire trucks, ambulances, police cars, etc. always have the right of way for their safety and yours.
  • Always maintain your cool. Road rage is one of the other common causes of roadway fatalities.

Defensive driving is a critical skill for all drivers to possess. By taking the time to brush up on your defensive driving techniques, you can make our roads safer for everyone, including you.

How to Become a Better Driver?

Whether you’re an experienced driver or you’ve just finished driver’s ed class, there’s always room for improvement. By learning to anticipate problems on the road before they happen, you can avoid accidents even when other drivers are being reckless. Although driving is a skill that takes time and practice to perfect, by becoming aware of what safe drivers do (and the habits they avoid), you can make improvements in your driving skills.

20 habits of a defensive driver

20 Safety Habits for Drivers:

  • Always wear your seat belt.
  • Ensure your vehicle is in perfect working condition.
  • Obey traffic signals.
  • Don’t drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
  • Don’t text and drive.
  • Drive within the speed limit.
  • Obey the work zone speed limits. The same goes for hospitals, schools, and near children’s playgrounds.
  • Share the road with bicycles & motorcycles.
  • Don’t talk and drive.
  • Use properly installed child restraints.
  • Wait for trains before crossing the track.
  • Give way to emergency vehicles.
  • Maintain the proper distance between your car and the one in front of you.
  • Don’t be easily distracted by sights and sounds around you.
  • Don’t give in to road rage. Maintain your cool.
  • Remember that you are not on a racetrack, overtake the car in front of you only when it’s 100% safe.
  • Stay in your lane unless you need to turn or pull over.
  • Don’t forget to use the turn signal.
  • Be courteous. Don’t block pedestrians and other cars.
  • Be extra cautious in inclement weather conditions.

Key Takeaway: To become a better driver, learn defensive driving techniques and avoid the bad habits of other drivers.

FAQ About the Importance of Safe Driving:

1. why is driving so important.

For one, it increases your mobility and independence, allowing you to go wherever you want when you want it. It also can make getting to work or school much easier and faster, saving time and money. In addition, learning to drive can help build confidence and responsibility.

2. What are the benefits of driving?

The benefits of driving vary depending on the individual. For some, it can be a liberating experience that gives them a sense of freedom and independence. For others, it may cause anxiety or stress because of the responsibility that comes with operating a vehicle. However, the act of driving is relatively safe when compared to other activities, such as motorbiking or swimming. When done correctly and responsibly, driving can be an enjoyable and convenient way to get around.

3. What is a driving skill?

A driving skill is the ability to operate a vehicle safely and efficiently.

4. What are the skills required to drive safely?

  • Knowing how to control the speed and direction of the vehicle.
  • Being able to judge distances accurately.
  • Having good coordination between eyes, hands, and feet.
  • Reacting quickly in emergencies.
  • Knowing traffic rules

5. What are the three most important things about driving?

The three most important things about driving are safety, awareness, and control. Safety is the number one priority when behind the wheel.

Always drive defensively and be aware of your surroundings. Be especially cautious in bad weather or at night. Awareness is key to being a safe driver. Pay attention to other vehicles on the road, as well as pedestrians and cyclists. Anticipate what others might do so you can react accordingly. Always maintain control of your vehicle. This means knowing your car’s capabilities and limitations and staying within the speed limit—even if traffic is flowing smoothly around you. In conclusion, we should take to heart the importance of safe driving. The benefits and privileges it brings come with great responsibility. Don’t let yourself or your loved ones become a part of the statistics. By following the tips presented here, you can become a better driver and help make the roads safer for everyone. Next up, you may want to explore a guide to remote work safety tips .

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Rafal Reyzer

Rafal Reyzer

Hey there, welcome to my blog! I'm a full-time entrepreneur building two companies, a digital marketer, and a content creator with 10+ years of experience. I started RafalReyzer.com to provide you with great tools and strategies you can use to become a proficient digital marketer and achieve freedom through online creativity. My site is a one-stop shop for digital marketers, and content enthusiasts who want to be independent, earn more money, and create beautiful things. Explore my journey here , and don't miss out on my AI Marketing Mastery online course.

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Safe Driving

Protecting Yourself Behind the Wheel

Illustration of the passenger in a car talking to the driver

Driving a car can give you freedom. But it’s also one of riskiest things you do every day. More than 36,000 people died in car accidents in the U.S. in 2018. Millions more are injured each year.

Many things can make driving risky. Speeding, not paying full attention to the road, and driving while tired all increase your chances of a crash. Drinking or using drugs can be especially dangerous.

Fortunately, there are things you can do to keep yourself and others safe while in the car. Researchers are working to understand what causes crashes and how to prevent them.

Distracted Driving

You’ve likely seen ads reminding you to keep your eyes on the road. With cell phones and screens everywhere, distracted driving has become a major problem.

“Because we’re so phone driven, the tendency is when somebody calls us or texts us, we want to respond immediately,” says Dr. Bruce Simons-Morton, an NIH expert on teen driving. To drive safely, we have to overcome that powerful impulse, he explains.

Texting can take your eyes off the road for seconds at a time. In just five seconds, you travel the entire length of a football field at 55 miles per hour.

Distraction isn’t limited to phones. It’s anything that takes attention away from driving the car. Eating, playing with the radio, and adjusting your navigation system all distract from safe driving.

“Reaching for objects is also a big problem,” says Simons-Morton. You may take your eyes off the road when you reach for your sunglasses or something in the seat next to you.

People of any age can give in to distractions while driving. Many adults admit to texting, answering calls, and other dangerous behaviors. That’s a problem because teens are modeling their parents’ actions as they learn to drive.

Teen Drivers

Studies show that teen drivers are at greatest risk for crashes. Crashes are higher among 16- to 19-year-olds than any other age group. That’s because some driving skills get better with experience. Teens are also prone to distraction, especially with friends in the car.

“The first six months of driving on their own is the most dangerous,” says Dr. Ginger Yang, a teen driving expert at Nationwide Children’s Hospital and The Ohio State University. The risk of getting in an accident remains high until at least their early 20s.

To help keep new drivers safe, all states now use a graduated licensing system. The system has three stages. Teens first get their learner’s permit, where they are supervised by an adult driver. After passing their driving test, they receive a license that comes with restrictions, like limits on nighttime driving and passengers. After maintaining a safe driving record for a set period, they can get a standard driver’s license.

Yang explains that parents can sometimes become less engaged when their teens first start driving independently. But even after being handed the keys, teens are still looking to their parents.

“Parents need to be good role models, because teens are still watching and learning from how parents behave,” Yang says. She is currently researching how parents can communicate with their teens to help improve their driving.

Yang and her colleagues have been studying ways to help teens who already have a traffic violation. Her team teaches parents ways to strengthen their child’s motivation to drive more safely. Parents learn to use open-ended questions and be active listeners. This technique is called motivational interviewing.

Yang advises parents that “conversations about safe driving need to be small topics each time but be brought up multiple times.”

Timing is important. Both parent and teen need to be calm for conversations to be effective.

Her past studies suggest parents can make a difference. By motivating their teens to engage in safe driving behaviors early on, parents can help teens establish safe driving habits that they carry into adulthood.

Older Drivers

Younger drivers aren’t the only group at greater risk of crashes. As you age, physical and mental changes can make driving more dangerous.

“There’s a number of changes that happen in our vision as we grow older,” says Dr. Cynthia Owsley, who studies the impact of aging on vision at the University of Alabama at Birmingham.

Eye diseases, such as glaucoma, naturally get worse with age. Older adults are also more likely to have certain eye conditions that affect sight, like cataracts and age-related macular degeneration.

Problems distinguishing an object from its background, called contrast sensitivity, are also common. “Think of looking through a dirty windshield: Everything looks kind of washed out,” Owsley says.

Vision problems can also affect your ability to see to the side, or peripheral vision. This can make it harder to see cars in the lanes next to you.

For older adults, changes in the brain can make driving riskier, too. Owsley and others have shown that cognitive decline—problems with memory and other brain functions—increases the likelihood of a car crash.

Changes in physical ability, such as strength and reflexes, can also make driving more dangerous as you age. But getting older doesn’t necessarily mean you have to stop driving.

“I think the public worries about older drivers, but actually most older drivers are quite safe,” Owsley says. It’s older drivers with visual and cognitive impairments that are at greatest risk.

If you’re concerned about an older person’s driving, it’s important to start a conversation with them. Experts advise watching for the signs that driving is getting unsafe, like getting lost on familiar routes, experiencing a near-miss, or receiving a traffic ticket.

You can contact a driving assessment clinic as well. These clinics can provide a professional evaluation of a person’s driving ability. If driving is no longer safe, work with the older adult to develop a plan for getting around without a car.

Safer Driving

Whether you’re a new driver or have been driving for decades, it’s important to think about safe driving.

The good news is that advances in car design and safety technology are helping protect you behind the wheel. You can also do several things to reduce your risk of an accident. Always stay alert. Resist the urge to text or talk on the phone. For more safe driving tips, see the Wise Choices box.

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Damoov

  • August 14, 2023

Behind the Wheel: The Critical Importance of Safe Driving

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why is safe driving important essay

Explore the undeniable importance of safe driving practices. Dive into personal stories, statistics, and the profound impact of responsible choices behind the wheel. Discover why every drive matters.

why is safe driving important essay

Introduction

In an era of rapid technological advancement, the emphasis on safe driving becomes more profound. Not only does it save lives, but it also significantly impacts businesses’ bottom line. Businesses are quickly understanding the value of incorporating safe driving habits. Take for example the widespread integration of platforms like Damoov , designed to add safe driving features to any mobile application or work tool.

Why is Safe Driving Important?

Personal Safety : Consider the tragic story of a young individual, perhaps someone’s sibling or child, involved in a fatal accident due to distracted driving . Every year, stories like these serve as a grim reminder of the irreplaceable loss that negligent driving can inflict.

Reduced Liabilities : In 2019, a major delivery service company faced a lawsuit costing millions due to an accident caused by one of their drivers . Accidents result in legal fees, increased insurance premiums, and in some cases, hefty lawsuit settlements.

Business Reputation : In contrast, companies like FedEx and UPS invest heavily in safe driving training programs. This not only reduces their risk but also enhances their reputation. Clients are more likely to choose services they perceive as responsible and trustworthy.

How Safe Driving Improves Business Metrics and Reduces Expenses

Decrease in Maintenance Costs : Safe driving reduces aggressive braking and over-speeding. A local taxi company once decided to conduct a safe driving campaign. After six months, they found that their maintenance costs had gone down by 15% , translating to thousands in savings.

Reduced Insurance Premiums : After implementing a fleet safety program, a logistics company in California reported a 20% reduction in their insurance premiums . Safe driving records offer a substantial negotiation advantage.

Increased Employee Productivity : After an unfortunate accident, an employee at a courier company had to take three months off work. The company had to hire temporary replacements and deal with disrupted logistics , leading to a dip in productivity and increased operational costs.

Customer Retention and Acquisition : A renowned ride-hailing app promotes its stringent driver safety training in its marketing campaigns. As a result, they’ve seen a 10% rise in customer retention .

Damoov: Revolutionizing Safe Driving for Businesses

When tech meets safety , platforms like Damoov emerge. Their innovative approach provides businesses the perfect blend of technology and safety .

Real-time Monitoring : Imagine a delivery driver who often speeds to meet tight deadlines. With Damoov’s real-time feedback , he’s immediately alerted when he exceeds the speed limit, prompting an instant correction. Over time, this continuous feedback can lead to ingrained safe driving habits.

Data-Driven Insights : A regional trucking company used Damoov to gather data on their drivers . They found that a specific highway stretch had a higher incidence of hard braking. Upon investigation, they discovered that a misleading road sign was the culprit. The company then worked with local authorities to address the issue, leading to safer conditions for all drivers .

Easy Integration : A food delivery startup with a limited tech budget wanted to ensure their drivers’ safety . Instead of purchasing and installing expensive hardware, they integrated Damoov’s features into their existing app. Not only did this save costs, but it also allowed them to roll out the safety features in record time.

Every business, from local startups to multinational corporations, can attest to the importance of safe driving . Beyond the moral obligation to protect lives, there’s a clear financial and reputational incentive. Real-life examples, ranging from tragic stories to triumphant improvements, highlight the tangible impact of driving habits on businesses.

Platforms like Damoov are not just technological tools; they are lifelines in today’s fast-paced world. As businesses and individuals, the road to safety begins with awareness, is paved with technology, and is navigated with responsibility. By investing in safe driving , companies are not only protecting their bottom line but also taking a proactive step towards a safer community and a brighter future.

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Personal Car Driving’ Importance Essay

Introduction.

Driving is a life skill that every person should acquire. Proper driving reflects on the overall approach to life. Driving is a fundamental aspect of life; it influences the overall behavior of the person. Learning car control techniques and tips apply to how an individual can have a broad outlook on life.

Driving encompasses lessons which one has to learn, to drive safely (Green Life). It is important to acknowledge that driving is a skill that once you have acquired, you will use it for the rest of your life. Therefore, it is crucial to choose the right instructor and allow sufficient time to take the instructor‘s advice. Traffic offenses’ amount not only to the violation of traffic laws, but also a violation to other people’s rights and when an individual drives carefully it means being a law-abiding citizen and shows his or her belief to protect lives (Crabtree).

In driving a personal car, it is less stressful and comfortable as it avoids synchronization of the various means of public transport. To overcome the obstacle of reckless driving, other aspects of life have to be attained and taught as well, which has a positive effect to not only the person but the entire community in general. Careful driving enables individuals to exercise their rights and become role models in society.

Private driving is convenient for; it is not organized on predetermined programs. Parents also use the time they take in a while driving to connect with their children due to their busy schedules (Ellaway et al.). Given these key factors, it is clear that driving a personal car is beneficial compared to public transport.

Flexibility and Convenience

Driving a personal car is convenient and flexible for the user. It reduces the use of public transport systems, which is designed to work according to schedules or timetables. Sometimes, these plans can be canceled or be delayed, thereby distracting prior arranged activities of a person.

Similarly, it saves time that could have been spent walking to the bus stop or train station or waiting at bus stops. With new residential areas and employment opportunities emerging away from the major cities, most people have resorted to driving because public systems do not extend beyond defined city boundaries (Crabtree). Additionally, workers who may be required to work late hours to meet deadlines can only do so if they can drive themselves around.

Eases the Demand for Coordination

Personal driving eases the effort of planning how to move from one destination to another, especially if there is heavy luggage to be transported. When driving public vehicles, a lot of coordination and planning is mandatory if a person is required to use more than one bus or train (Green Life).

Personal driving will reduce the coordination of the various modes of transportation and aid in achieving more by going to different places. In the same way, people who live far away from modern services can only depend on private driving to obtain services.

Privacy and Comfort

Driving a private car provides privacy and comfort; this is difficult to come by in a public driven vehicle. Various public systems service providers do not make enough revenue to cover their costs. Consequently, driving a public vehicle is dirty and smelly due to poor maintenance. It becomes congested and overcrowded during peak hours, making the drive uncomfortable.

In a private car, family or friends have the liberty of discussing confidential matters without the fear of another person eavesdropping on their conversation (Ellaway et al.). Parents can connect with their kids or help them with their homework in the middle of their busy schedules. One can also choose the music they like, control the temperature, drive at a comfortable speed, and adjust the seats to suit their height or body weight. There is no fear of theft or losing personal items.

Convenient for Children, Elderly and Disabled

Driving is faster and convenient for children, disabled, elderly, or ailing people. It is not advisable for a parent to take the bus or train with a baby.

Private means of driving offers a convenient opportunity for people with disabilities to go to work school or run critical errands since their cars can be customized to suit their various needs and give them a sense of independence and self-determination (Ellaway et al.). The elderly and ailing will avoid the stress found in public transport system. Correspondingly, an expectant mother, cannot rely on a public driven vehicle; she requires private vehicles for emergencies.

Driving is the skill that is carried out by the subconscious part of the brain. It is a life skill that is essential in developing different aspects of life, which enables one to make appropriate decisions in real-life conditions. This involves applying and realizing the brakes, accelerating, and having full control of the car (Green Life).

Driving your car is beneficial because it is more convenient, flexible, comfortable, and private. It is possible to run errands and accomplish most of the set plans because it is not dependent on timetables and schedules. It also reduces time wastage since private driving has no designated stops. Private driving is important because driving public transport is emotionally and physically exhausting.

Works Cited

Crabtree, Vexen. “ Transport is Good. The Advantages of Pooled Transport. ” 2007. Web.

Ellaway, Anne, Macintyre Sally, Rosemary Hiscock and Ade Kearns. “ In The Driving Seat: Psychological Benefits From Private Motor Vehicle Transport Compared To Public Transport ”, 2003. Web.

Green Life . “Reduce Global Warming: Take Public Transport. ” 2009. Web.

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IvyPanda. (2023, October 31). Personal Car Driving' Importance. https://ivypanda.com/essays/personal-car-driving-importance/

"Personal Car Driving' Importance." IvyPanda , 31 Oct. 2023, ivypanda.com/essays/personal-car-driving-importance/.

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IvyPanda . 2023. "Personal Car Driving' Importance." October 31, 2023. https://ivypanda.com/essays/personal-car-driving-importance/.

1. IvyPanda . "Personal Car Driving' Importance." October 31, 2023. https://ivypanda.com/essays/personal-car-driving-importance/.

Bibliography

IvyPanda . "Personal Car Driving' Importance." October 31, 2023. https://ivypanda.com/essays/personal-car-driving-importance/.

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Essay on Road Safety

500 words essay on road safety.

In today’s fast-paced world, road accidents are happening at a very high rate. Although, the technological advancements in the automobile industry has thankfully brought down the mortality rates. Nonetheless, there are a lot of potential hazards that are present on the road. Thus, road safety is important to safeguard everyone. In this essay on road safety, we will learn its importance and its basic rules.

essay on road safety

Importance of Essay on Road Safety

Road safety is important to safeguard the well-being of everyone including humans and other living beings. This essay on road safety will help us learn about why it is important. A lot of environmental factors determine our road safety.

For instance, if it is raining or there is heavy fog or smog, the visibility of the driver will be hampered. It may result in pile-ups on the highway. Similarly, there are other factors like rain that lead to hydroplaning.

In this phenomenon, the vehicles that travel at high speeds start to slide uncontrollably as the tires of the vehicle push off the ground through a thin film of water present on the road.

However, road safety rules can help us avoid all these dangerous situations easily. When people follow the road safety rules rigorously and maintain their vehicles well, everyone can remain safe.

Most importantly, it is also essential to drive within the prescribed speed limits. Also, one must not use their mobile phone when driving a vehicle. Road safety is of utmost importance to make sure that everyone remains safe and healthy.

Get the huge list of more than 500 Essay Topics and Ideas

Basic Rules of Road Safety

There are a lot of general and basic rules that one must follow when they drive vehicles or use public roads in general. The first rule is to know the signals and pay attention to them rigorously.

This applies to both the driver as well as the pedestrian. Further, it is important for those who are walking to use the sidewalks and pedestrian crossings. It is also essential to be aware of all the rules and laws of the state and abide by them.

Most importantly, it is also mandatory to have an approved driving license before getting on the road with your vehicle. Road safety sensitization is vital to ensure the safety of everyone.

Making the general public aware of the importance of road safety can help reduce the rate of accidents and road mishaps that happen on a daily basis. Seminars and educating people can be helpful to guide them and make them aware of the consequences.

Conclusion of Essay on Road Safety

To sum it up, everyone must follow the road rules. Do not drive at excessive speed and try to enhance the general awareness so risks of traffic accidents can be reduced. One must also check the vehicle health regularly and its maintenance parts to eliminate any potential risks.

FAQ on Essay on Road Safety

Question 1: What is road safety?

Answer 1: Road safety refers to the methods that we adopt to prevent road users from getting injuries or being killed in traffic accidents. They are essential to maintain everyone’s well being.

Question 2: How can one avoid traffic accidents and enhance road safety?

Answer 2: One can avoid traffic accidents by following the road rules strictly. Moreover, they must also make sure their vehicles are always well-maintained. Further, it is also vital to drive within the speed limits of the state. Do not use phones when driving or be under the influence of alcohol.

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Importance of Safe and Responsible Driving | A Guide to Driving’s Impact and Ethics

  • September 25, 2023

why is safe driving important essay

Driving, for many of us, is an integral part of our daily lives. It’s the freedom to travel, explore, and commute at our convenience. Whether it’s the daily commute to work, a road trip with friends, or a simple errand to the grocery store, driving plays a crucial role in modern society.

However, with this privilege comes great responsibility. Safe and responsible driving is not just a matter of convenience but a moral obligation to protect lives and ensure the well-being of our communities.

See Also: Necessary Skills Every Driver Should Have

Table of Contents

Understanding the Concept of Driving

At its core, driving involves the operation of a motorized vehicle to move from one place to another. It’s the act of controlling a machine that has the power to transport us quickly and efficiently. However, driving is more than just mechanical; it’s a skill, a responsibility, and a privilege.

  • History of Driving

The history of driving is a fascinating journey through time. From the invention of the first automobile by Karl Benz in the late 19th century to the modern, technologically advanced vehicles of today, driving has evolved significantly. What was once a luxury for the elite has become a commonplace activity for people around the world.

  • Evolution of the Automobile

As the automobile industry has advanced, vehicles have become more than just modes of transportation. They’ve become extensions of our lives, offering comfort, safety, and even entertainment. From horseless carriages to electric cars, the evolution of the automobile has transformed the way we live and move.

Freedom and Convenience of Driving

  • Personal Mobility

Driving provides a sense of personal mobility that is unmatched by any other mode of transportation. It allows us to go where we want, when we want, without relying on public transport schedules or the availability of taxis.

  • Economic Benefits

For many, driving is not just a convenience but also a means of livelihood. It enables us to reach our workplaces, businesses, or clients efficiently, contributing to economic productivity.

  • Accessibility and Independence

Driving offers unparalleled accessibility, especially in areas with limited public transportation options. It empowers individuals with disabilities, senior citizens, and those living in rural areas to maintain their independence and access essential services.

Responsibilities of a Driver

  • Operating a Vehicle

Operating a vehicle goes beyond just turning the key and pressing the pedals. It involves understanding the vehicle’s controls, gauges, and safety features. It requires knowing how to respond to various driving conditions and emergencies.

  • Complying with Traffic Laws

Every driver is expected to adhere to traffic laws and regulations. This includes obeying speed limits, yielding the right-of-way, and stopping at red lights and stop signs. These rules are not arbitrary; they are designed to keep everyone on the road safe.

  • Safeguarding Lives

Perhaps the most critical responsibility of a driver is the safety of oneself, passengers, and others sharing the road. This responsibility goes beyond following traffic rules; it extends to making decisions that protect lives.

Importance of Safe and Responsible Driving

  • Protecting Lives and Reducing Accidents

Safe driving is synonymous with saving lives. According to the World Health Organization, road traffic injuries are a leading cause of death globally, with over 1.3 million lives lost each year. However, responsible driving can significantly reduce this grim statistic.

  • The Human and Emotional Costs of Reckless Driving

Beyond the statistics are the human stories of those affected by reckless driving. Each accident represents a potential tragedy that leaves families shattered, survivors scarred, and communities grieving. The emotional toll of these accidents is immeasurable.

  • Legal and Financial Consequences

In addition to the personal and emotional consequences, reckless driving can lead to severe legal and financial repercussions. Traffic violations, accidents, and legal battles can result in fines, license suspensions, increased insurance premiums, and even imprisonment.

The Role of Responsible Driving

  • Ethical Considerations

Responsible driving is not just a legal obligation; it’s an ethical one. It means recognizing the potential consequences of our actions on the road and choosing to prioritize the safety and well-being of others over reckless behavior.

  • Environmental Impact

Responsible driving also extends to environmental considerations. Vehicles are a significant source of pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. By adopting eco-friendly driving habits such as carpooling, reducing idling, and driving fuel-efficient vehicles, we can reduce our carbon footprint.

  • Community Well-Being

Driving responsibly contributes to the overall well-being of our communities. Safer roads mean fewer accidents, reduced healthcare costs, and less strain on emergency services. It fosters a sense of trust and cooperation among drivers, making our streets more pleasant places to be.

See Also: Road Trip Survival Tips for Parents

Safe and Responsible Driving as a Social Contract

  • Respecting the Rights of Others

Safe and responsible driving is, in essence, a social contract among all road users. It’s an agreement to respect each other’s rights, follow established rules, and prioritize safety. When we drive responsibly, we acknowledge our role in this contract.

  • Setting a Positive Example

As drivers, we set an example for others, especially younger or less experienced drivers. By modeling safe and responsible behavior, we influence the driving culture in our communities and encourage others to follow suit.

  • Contributing to a Safer Society

Ultimately, safe and responsible driving is about creating a safer society for everyone. It’s about reducing the burden on our healthcare system, preventing accidents, and ensuring that our loved ones return home safely each day.

Distracted, Impaired, and Reckless Driving

  • The Dangers of Distracted Driving

Distracted driving, often associated with smartphone use behind the wheel, has become a major safety concern. It diverts attention from the road and can lead to accidents, injuries, and fatalities.

  • The Consequences of Impaired Driving

Impaired driving, whether due to alcohol, drugs, or prescription medications, impairs judgment and reaction times, making accidents more likely. It is a leading cause of road fatalities worldwide.

  • Understanding Reckless Driving

Reckless driving encompasses a wide range of dangerous behaviors on the road, including excessive speeding, aggressive driving, and road rage. These actions put lives at risk and can lead to catastrophic accidents.

Safe Driving Practices

  • Defensive Driving Techniques

Defensive driving is a set of skills and techniques that help drivers anticipate and react to potential hazards. It involves staying alert, maintaining a safe following distance, and being prepared for the unexpected.

  • Avoiding Distractions

Avoiding distractions is crucial for safe driving. This includes not only putting away smartphones but also refraining from eating, grooming, or engaging in any activity that diverts attention from the road.

  • Adhering to Speed Limits and Traffic Signs

Speed limits and traffic signs are not arbitrary guidelines but essential safety measures. Adhering to speed limits and obeying traffic signs and signals ensures that everyone on the road can anticipate each other’s actions.

Promoting Safe and Responsible Driving

  • Educational Initiatives

Education plays a vital role in promoting safe and responsible driving. Schools, driving courses, and awareness campaigns provide drivers with the knowledge and skills they need to make responsible choices on the road.

  • Government Regulations

Government regulations, such as seatbelt and child safety seat laws, DUI laws, and vehicle safety standards, are designed to protect drivers and passengers. These regulations create a framework for safe driving practices.

  • Technology’s Role in Road Safety

Technology has also become a valuable ally in road safety. Advanced safety features in modern vehicles, such as lane departure warnings, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking, help prevent accidents.

Driving is more than just a means of transportation; it’s a way of life for many of us. However, with the privilege of driving comes a profound responsibility to prioritize safety and responsibility on the road.

Safe and responsible driving is not only about following rules and regulations; it’s about making ethical choices that protect lives, preserve our environment, and contribute to the well-being of our communities.

As drivers, we are part of a social contract that requires us to respect each other’s rights and prioritize safety. By modeling responsible behavior, avoiding distractions, and adhering to speed limits, we can set a positive example and help create a safer society for all.

Remember, every time you get behind the wheel, you have the power to make a difference. Choose safe and responsible driving, not just for yourself, but for the benefit of everyone sharing the road with you. It’s a responsibility we should all take seriously, and it’s a commitment to a better, safer future on our roads.

Drive safely, and drive responsibly. Your actions can save lives.

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why is safe driving important essay

Why You Should Learn to Drive – The Benefits of Driving

Transport is a large part of our lives. Even if you live in a remote area, you still have to head out of the house for supplies once or twice a week. For people who study or work, commuting is most likely a daily affair. A driver’s license is a sought-after qualification that offers the freedom of driving. But, aside from getting someone from A to B, are there other benefits of learning to drive?

The Benefits of Driving

Driving grows your brain.

Managing multiple tasks during driving helps develop neuroplasticity. Basic driving involves coordinating your hands and feet to simultaneously steer and work the pedals. Add to that listening to music, watching other cars, following navigation instructions, or drinking coffee, and your brain is being trained to process large amounts of information at once.

As you learn new driving routes, visualize how various roads connect, and figure out the fastest route to take, you also improve your memory and your ability to interpret and retain visual information. A study of trainee taxi drivers found that learning the streets of London resulted in hippocampus development and higher cognitive functions including spatial memory.

Driving offers mobility and convenience.

The main reason why most people learn to drive is that it offers mobility. After a long day at work, instead of waiting for public transport in the cold and rain, you can simply hop into your car and be on the way home. Daily commutes aside, driving makes it more convenient for you to make quick trips like popping out to the store or taking your dog to the vet.

Your car also comes with more space. It can fit several people and a large amount of shopping. Instead of having to lug bulky grocery bags to the bus stop or take the train with kids in tow, you can load everyone and everything into the car. In addition, you have the freedom to make multiple stops and pick up the shopping, the kids, and dinner all in one trip.

Driving offers independence, privacy, and security.

There is a reason why obtaining a driver’s license is a rite of passage for many young adults. Driving fosters a sense of responsibility and independence from having to rely on busy parents or family members. Learning to maintain a vehicle and manage vehicle expenses is good practice for the responsibilities of adulthood.

When you take public transport, common riders can easily learn your daily schedules. In hire cars, drivers know where you live and can listen in on your conversations. For people who value their privacy, driving is a better option. Moreover, having a private car can also provide a stronger sense of security for those who have to travel at night or on isolated routes.

You could save money.

With the current gas prices, owning and maintaining a car may seem costly. But for many people who live in areas with limited public transport options, driving can be much more affordable than hiring private taxis. Furthermore, there are numerous ways where you can have a car without breaking the bank such as buying second-hand or sharing the family car.

You could get a job.

Once you have passed your driving test, you have your license for life. This license can come in handy when you are looking for employment. Many companies prefer to hire people who are licensed drivers in case they need to make an urgent delivery or meet a client in a hurry. Besides, you always have the option of becoming a ride-hail driver in your spare time.

How to Learn to Drive

Driver’s licenses are required by law for anyone operating a motor vehicle in the United States. Licenses are issued by the state in which you live and the processes and regulations vary from state to state. Typically, you can start your driver’s education at 14. Download or purchase the relevant driver’s handbook for your state from your local DMV.

You can generally apply for your learner’s permit between the age of 14 and 16. Most states, such as California, will require you to complete a state-approved driver’s education course or basic knowledge test before you can apply for a learner’s license. It is recommended that you find a reputable driving school and online driver’s ed resource to help you from this stage onwards.

With a learner’s license, you can take driving lessons and accumulate the minimum required number of supervised driving hours. Some states also have mandatory auxiliary programs such as the Impact Texas Drivers Program. When you have completed the requirements and reached the minimum age for your state, you can apply for your provisional driver’s license.

To receive your provisional driver’s license, you will need to pass a comprehensive written exam and a driving skills test. The provisional driver’s license comes with certain restrictions such as passenger numbers and driving hours. In some states, you can upgrade to a full license as young as 16 and 6 months while you have to be 18 in others. Once you have your full license, you are good to go!

Home — Essay Samples — Science — Speed — Why Speed Limits Are Important

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Why Speed Limits Are Important

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Words: 795 |

Published: Sep 7, 2023

Words: 795 | Pages: 2 | 4 min read

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Preserving road safety, reducing accident severity, enhancing traffic flow, encouraging responsible driving behavior, protecting vulnerable road users, environmental benefits, conclusion: a critical component of road safety.

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why is safe driving important essay

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Essay on Driving

Students are often asked to write an essay on Driving in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Driving

What is driving.

Driving is the act of controlling a vehicle, like a car or a bike. It lets people go from one place to another faster than walking or biking. To drive, you need to learn the rules of the road and how to operate a vehicle safely.

The Importance of Learning to Drive

Learning to drive is important because it helps you become independent. You don’t have to rely on others to go places. But it’s a big responsibility. You must always pay attention and follow traffic laws.

Staying Safe on the Road

Safety is the most important part of driving. Always wear your seatbelt. Make sure your car is working well before you go anywhere. Never use your phone while driving because it can distract you and cause accidents.

Respecting Traffic Rules

Traffic rules are made to keep everyone safe. Stop at red lights, stay within speed limits, and use turn signals. If you break these rules, you could get fined or cause a crash.

Driving and the Environment

Cars can harm the environment by releasing gases that pollute the air. To help, you can drive less by walking, biking, or using public transport. When you do drive, try to share rides with others.

250 Words Essay on Driving

Driving is the act of controlling a vehicle, like a car, truck, or motorcycle. It’s a way for people to get from one place to another. To drive, you need to learn the rules of the road and how to handle the vehicle safely.

Learning to drive is important because it gives you freedom. Once you know how to drive, you can go to school, work, or anywhere else without waiting for a bus or a ride from someone else. It’s a big step towards becoming independent.

Rules of the Road

When you drive, you must follow the rules of the road. These rules help keep everyone safe. They tell you how fast you can go, where you can drive, and what signs like “STOP” and “YIELD” mean. If you don’t follow these rules, you could cause an accident or get a ticket.

Being Safe While Driving

Safety is the most important part of driving. Always wear your seatbelt and make sure your car is in good shape. Never use your phone while driving, and always pay attention to the road. Remember, when you’re driving, you’re responsible for your safety and the safety of others.

Cars can harm the environment, so it’s good to think about how often you drive. Walking, biking, or taking the bus can be better for the Earth. When you do drive, try to share rides with friends or family to help the planet.

500 Words Essay on Driving

Driving is the act of controlling a vehicle and moving it from one place to another. It is a skill that many people learn as they grow up. When someone drives, they sit behind the wheel of a car, truck, or motorcycle, and use their hands and feet to steer, speed up, slow down, and stop. It’s like being the captain of a small ship on the road, deciding where to go and how to get there safely.

Learning to drive is an important step towards becoming independent. It means that you don’t have to rely on others to take you places; you can go there yourself. For adults, driving can be essential for getting to work or taking care of their families. For younger people, it might be about exploring and enjoying the freedom of going wherever they want, whenever they want.

Road Safety Rules

When driving, it’s very important to follow road safety rules. These rules are like instructions that help keep everyone safe on the road. They tell you how fast you can go, where you can drive, and what signs and signals you need to pay attention to. For example, a red light means stop, and a green light means go. There are also rules about wearing seat belts to keep you safe in case of an accident.

Respecting Others on the Road

Driving is not just about you; it’s also about sharing the road with others. This includes other cars, bikes, and pedestrians. Being respectful means watching out for others, not driving too close to the car in front of you, and allowing people to cross the street safely. When everyone respects each other, driving becomes much safer and more enjoyable.

Cars and other vehicles can harm the environment because they produce pollution. This pollution can make the air dirty and harm plants and animals. That’s why it’s good to think about how often we use cars and if there are other ways to travel, like walking, biking, or taking the bus. Some cars are even made to be better for the environment by using electricity instead of gas.

The Fun of Driving

Driving can also be fun. It feels exciting to control a car and enjoy the scenery as you travel to new places. It’s like going on a mini-adventure every time you get behind the wheel. For many people, driving is a hobby, and they take great care of their vehicles, making sure they are clean and working well.

Driving is a useful skill that offers freedom, independence, and responsibility. It is important to learn how to drive safely and to follow the rules of the road. By driving respectfully and thinking about the environment, we can make sure that driving is safe and enjoyable for everyone. Whether it’s for a daily commute, running errands, or going on a road trip, driving is a part of everyday life for many people around the world.

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Essay on Why It Is Important to Drive Safely

Safety is a primary concern that should not be taken lightly when driving a vehicle. Every year there are numerous cases of accidents due to careless driving that results in fatal injuries and in more serious cases, loss of life. According to the Association for Safe International Road Travel, approximately 1.3 million people lose their lives and an additional 20 to 30 million are disabled or injured in car crashes every year. Furthermore, road traffic accidents rank as the 9th leading cause of death and account for about two percent of deaths globally (Association for Safe International Road Travel). Such staggering statistics are a clear indication that there is an urgent need for every diver to understand the importance of driving safely.

There are various reasons why it is important to drive safely, the most obvious of which is safety. Reckless driving puts the driver, the passengers as well as other road users in great danger. Car accidents due to careless driving have severe consequences for all road users as they can result in death, fatal injuries and disruptions in schedules and road routes as well as financial complications (The Stewardship Report). In the United States, road accident contributes to over 37000 deaths and cost the government 230.6 billion dollars each year (Association for Safe International Road Travel). Thus, by obeying the speed limits, maintaining a safe distance between cars and using the indicators at the appropriate time, drivers can ensure the safety of all road users and decrease the number of accidents on the roads.

Another importance of driving safely is financial gain. Safe driving is a significant factor in determining insurance premiums for a vehicle. Drivers with vehicles fitted with trackers that send driving habits to the insurance benefit from low premiums if their driving habits reflect safe driving. Additionally, for insurance companies that do not utilize trackers to determine driving habits, as the cost of premiums is determined by the number of accidents a vehicle is involved in, the number of insurance claims made among other factors, driving safely helps in avoiding claims and accidents thus resulting to lower insurance premiums (The Stewardship Report). Furthermore, driving safely also means that one does not spend a lot of money for car maintenance and does not accrue fines due to reckless driving which helps save money while maintaining a good driving record.

Driving safely is also important as it helps to set a good example to other drivers as well as the passengers in the vehicle. More so, setting a good example by driving safely is especially important for teenage drivers as car accidents are the leading cause of death among people between the ages of fifteen to twenty-nine (Association for Safe International Road Travel). As such, adult drivers need to reinforce the habits of safe driving to teenagers and young adults through such actions as obeying all the road sign, checking mirrors, wearing a seatbelt and not doing any other activities during driving. Such strategies also ensure that the next generation of drivers also practices safe driving thus reducing the number of accidents and fatalities in the future.

Responsible and safe driving is a very important role for every person. As such, it is critical for every driver to understand the importance of safe driving as reckless driving can result in dire consequences. Furthermore, safe driving is advantageous as it ensures safety for all road users, results to financial gains and also sets a good example for other road users as well as future drivers.

Works cited

Association for Safe International Road Travel. Road Crash Statistics. 2017. Web. 11 October 2017.

The Stewardship Report. "Four Reasons Why Driving Safely Is More Important Than Ever." 25 April 2016. The Stewardship Report. Document. 11 October 2017.

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Why do drivers become safer over the first three months of driving? A longitudinal qualitative study

Marianne r. day.

a Department of Psychology, University of Sheffield, UK

Andrew R. Thompson

Damian r. poulter.

b Department of Psychology, Social Work and Counselling, University of Greenwich, UK

Christopher B. Stride

c Management School, University of Sheffield, UK

Richard Rowe

Associated data.

  • • Newly qualified drivers’ crash risk declines over the first three months of independent driving.
  • • The current study aimed to better understand the factors underpinning this safety improvement.
  • • A longitudinal qualitative design identified possible contributing factors to this decline in crash risk.
  • • Developments in skill, thrill-seeking and feelings of driving status were reported.
  • • Implications for research and application are discussed.

Drivers are at high crash risk when they begin independent driving, with liability decreasing steeply over the first three months. Their behavioural development, and other changes underlying improved safety are not well understood. We adopted an innovative longitudinal qualitative design, with thirteen newly qualified drivers completing a total of 36 semi-structured interviews, one, two and three months after acquiring a full UK driving license. The interviews probed high-risk factors for new drivers, as well as allowing space for generating novel road safety issues. Analysis adopted a dual deductive and inductive interpretative thematic approach, identifying three super-ordinate themes: (1) Improvements in car control skills and situation awareness; (2) A reduction in the thrill of taking risks when driving against a background of generally increasing driving speed; (3) Early concerns about their social status in the eyes of other road users during the early stages of driving, which may put pressure on them to drive faster than they felt comfortable with. The study provides important new leads towards understanding how novice driving becomes safer over the first few months of driving, including how well-studied concepts of driving skill and style may change during development of independent driving, and bringing the less rigorously studied concept of social status into focus.

1. Introduction

Road traffic crashes are one of top ten global causes of mortality resulting in approximately 3400 deaths per day ( Peden et al., 2004 ; World Health Organisation, 2013 ). Younger or novice drivers are at greater risk than older or experienced drivers. Studies of novices who began driving at different ages indicate that age and experience have independent effects on crash risk, with some evidence that the effect of experience is greater than that of age ( McCartt et al., 2009 ). Experience is a particularly important protective factor in the early months of independent driving; crash risk declines steeply over this period, irrespective of the driver’s age when obtaining a license ( McCartt et al., 2009 ). However, the behavioural changes that underpin this reduction in crash risk are unclear.

Identifying the behavioural developments that underpin this fall in crash liability over the first few months of driving would inform efforts to improve novice driver safety. Pre-driving interventions usually result in null or limited safety benefits ( Glendon et al., 2014 ; Poulter and McKenna, 2010 ; Roberts and Kwan, 2006 ). In contrast, educational interventions that have targeted intentions towards health behaviours such as smoking, drinking, safe sex, and exercise have led to safer behavioural outcomes ( Webb and Sheeran, 2006 ). Therefore, it seems plausible that pre-driving education programs could improve road safety if they adopt effective behaviour change techniques and, crucially, focus on the key behaviours involved in novice driver safety. One approach might aim to equip pre-drivers with the safer driving behaviours that otherwise naturally develop only during the first few months of independent motoring.

Many existing driving behaviour measures, predict crash involvement in novice drivers ( de Winter et al., 2015 ; Horswill et al., 2015 ) but do not appear to capture the key elements that underlie the improvement in road safety over the early months of driving. Current approaches differentiate between driving skill and style ( Elander et al., 1993 ). Skill includes perceptual-motor skills such as steering and gear-changing. General models of skill development propose that perceptual-motor performance becomes faster and more automatic with practice, making fewer demands on attentional resources ( Logan, 1988 ). There is evidence that self-reported driving errors become more common over the first three years of driving ( Roman et al., 2015 ). It is possible that increasing error-rate might indicate the development of automaticity, as attentional slips and lapses are more likely in the performance of well-practiced tasks which only require minimal attentional input ( Reason, 1990 ). We do not know of any studies that directly test the extent to which car control skills become automatic during the learning period or continue to develop post-licensure.

Driving skill also involves the processes underlying situation awareness. Situation awareness is defined as “the perception of the elements in the environment within a volume of time and space, the comprehension of their meaning, and the projection of their status in the near future” ( Endsley, 1995 , p. 36). In driving, situation awareness is often measured through hazard perception video simulations which measure the ability to anticipate dangerous traffic situations ( Horswill and McKenna, 2004 ). Hazard perception is related to experience when measured in years (e.g., Wallis and Horswill, 2007 ) but as yet there is only limited research addressing development over the first few months. One small scale study found no substantial differences in hazard perception measured 1, 5 and 9 months post-licensing ( Sagberg and Bjornskau, 2006 ).

Driving style refers to deliberate choices in terms of speed, following distance and engagement in other violations of recognized safe driving practices. A number of studies indicate that violations become more common in the early stages of driving ( Ozkan et al., 2006 ; Roman et al., 2015 ; Rowe et al., 2013 ). This is a counter intuitive finding given the well-established associations between crash involvement and driving violations ( de Winter et al., 2015 ; Evans, 2004 ).

One possibility is that the measures being used in the studies reviewed above, whilst successful in predicting crash risk in novices, are not sufficiently nuanced to identify the precise behaviours that become safer in the early stages of driving. For example, while driving speeds become faster overall, there may be particularly high risk situations in which novice drivers learn that speed reduction is paramount to safe driving. These might include driving around bends and driving at night; both high crash risk situations for inexperienced drivers ( Clarke et al., 2006 ). Therefore, new behavioural tools may be required to provide more fine-grained assessment of the key behaviour changes that underlie the improvement in driving safety over the first few months of driving. The Behaviour of Young Novice Drive Scale (BYNDS; Scott-Parker and Proffitt, 2015 ) was constructed from the literature on young drivers to measure relevant aspects of skill, style and exposure to risky situations, including driving at night and driving with same age peers. The BYNDS has five subscales, including one measuring transient violations (that can change across a journey, such as speed choice), and one measuring fixed violations (that are unlikely to change across a journey, such as wearing a seatbelt) as well as a scale measuring exposure to risky situations, including driving at night and driving with same age peers. In a New Zealand study, the exposure to risky situations scale was independently associated with self-reported crash involvement ( Scott-Parker and Proffitt, 2015 ). Data are so far unavailable on whether BYNDS scores change over the first few months of driving.

This study took a fresh approach to examining the behavioural development of new drivers by using a detailed qualitative investigation. Qualitative methods have rarely been employed in driving behaviour research. Exceptions include the use of individual and small group interviews with young and novice drivers about normative influences on risky behaviour ( Scott-Parker et al., 2012 ), and focus group research on young drivers’ perceptions of early driving, including the perceived importance of gaining a sufficient quantity and variety of experience soon after passing the driving test ( Glendon, 2013 ), perceptions of risk and vehicle handling competency among young rural drivers ( Knight et al., 2012 ), and a study of social influences on speed choice ( Fleiter et al., 2010 ). The latter study highlighted that drivers feel pressure from other motorists to drive faster, an effect that has received little attention in quantitative studies. Ehsani et al. (2015) have also employed qualitative methods to explore the perceptions of young drivers on the implications of driving with passengers of similar age, finding that they are aware of the direct and indirect influences on their behaviour.

To date there have been no qualitative studies that have sought to gain repeated information as driving experience develops. Uniquely in the novice driver literature, we used a longitudinal qualitative design in which drivers were interviewed at approximately 1 month, 2 months and 3 months after acquiring a full UK driving license that qualifies then to drive independently. This approach facilitated reflection upon driving development over time. A dual deductive and inductive interpretative thematic analytic approach was adopted ( Joffe, 2012 ). This enabled both the close examination of existing theory/knowledge, whilst allowing novel concepts to emerge. As such, our semi-structured interviews targeted behavioural change in situations in which novice driver crashes commonly occur and become less frequent with experience as identified in a study of 3000 crashes involving UK young drivers ( Clarke et al., 2006 ). These situations included driving around bends, following distance (relevant to rear-end shunts), driving at night and turning right at junctions (i.e., across the oncoming traffic flow, equivalent to a left turn in countries that drive on the right). We also probed for development in speed choice. This has been shown to be a robust predictor of crash involvement ( Evans, 2004 ), and a desire to drive faster may underlie many other forms of dangerous driving. Probes asking participants to generate other areas of challenge and improvement provided space for novel aspects of safer driving over the early months to emerge.

2.1. Participants

Thirteen newly qualified drivers (aged 17–19 years, 6 male, 7 female) who had passed their test within one month of their first interview were recruited through educational establishments and driving instructors in the North of England. This age and experience range was selected as being representative of young drivers at high crash risk ( Williams and Carsten, 1989 ). All were White British and in full-time education. Nine owned cars and four had regular access to a car. Five participants had a telematics device fitted to monitor their driving as part of their insurance policy at first interview, and another participant had a device fitted during the study. Ten had passed their first driving test, two passed on their second attempt, and one passed on the third attempt. Seven participants drove 5–7 days a week, four drove 3-5 days, one drove 1-2 days a week, and one drove less often. None of the participants had received any traffic citations and none had been involved in a crash while driving. All participants provided informed consent. The study procedures were approved by the Research Ethics Committee of the Department of Psychology, University of Sheffield.

2.2. Data collection

A total of 36 interviews were conducted; all but three participants took part in all three stages of data collection. The number of participants and amount of interview data generated is well within the range suggested as being sufficient for saturation to be achieved ( Guest et al., 2006 ). Individual semi-structured interviews were carried out by MRD, either in the participants’ educational establishment or home. The interview schedule [ supplementary materials ] covered known risky driving situations for novices; speed, cornering, right turns, night driving, close following and general driving behaviour. The schedule was devised with an awareness of the literature on risk factors among novice and young drivers (e.g., Clarke et al., 2006 ), as well as discussion with experts in the field. The interviewees were asked to describe their behaviour in each area and to describe changes over the previous month. They were also asked to describe other aspects of driving that they had found challenging during the previous month, and how they thought their driving had changed.

When driving changes were described, the questioning followed a critical incident technique ( Flanagan, 1954 ; Hughes et al., 2007 ). This involved asking the interviewee to describe the cause and outcome of a critical incident, their feelings and perceptions of the situation, the actions they took during the incident and any changes in their consequent behaviour. Identical questions were asked at each interview to ensure that responses were comparable. Notes from previous interviews were available at follow-ups and participants were asked whether points made at earlier contacts were still valid. Within the schedule structure the interviews aimed to be conversational with interviewees choosing the order of topic discussion. Interviews lasted between 20 and 47 min and were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim.

2.3. Data analysis

Thematic analysis was used to identify patterns of meaning in the interviews and transform the data into codes and themes ( Joffe, 2012 ). NVivo 10 ( QSR International, 2012 ) was adopted for initial coding and theme construction. A hybrid method ( Fereday and Muir-Cochrane, 2008 ) was used to include both deductive and inductive codes in describing and summarizing the data. The interview probes addressing problematic areas (e.g., cornering) meant that these codes were automatically present in the data. Other codes emerged during data analysis.

Initial analysis involved reading the set of interviews from each participant to obtain a sense of change over time. Memos were added to the data to identify ‘codable moments’ of behavioural development in the transcripts ( Boyatzis, 1998 ) and were summarized to construct a coding frame. This frame formed a template ( Crabtree and Miller, 1999 ) and data from each participant was added into the frame until it was saturated. Saturation was reached when all data was codable under the existing framework, and no new codes appeared to be emerging ( Guest et al., 2006 ). The coding frame and initial coding of three transcripts was carried out by MRD and audited by ART ( Spencer and Richie, 2012 ). Following Boyatzis (1998) , a code book and code tree were written to define each code with a description, exclusions and examples of inclusions. All transcripts were then fully coded accordingly. Initial codes were organized into superordinate themes and subthemes with common patterns of meaning, with consideration for relationships between themes and codes. Tables of codes and themes were constructed to map transcripts (participant and time point) onto themes, highlighting common and individual improvements and challenges in driving across the sample.

Our analysis identified three super-ordinate themes; (1) Driving skills, (2) violations and thrill-seeking, and (3) social status and pressure. Within driving skills, we identified sub-themes addressing control skills and situation awareness.

3.1. Driving skills

3.1.1. control skills.

In the earliest stages of driving most respondents reported some difficulties with car control skills such as gear changing, steering and road positioning. Many worried that they were likely to stall, 1 and also reported difficulties driving between parked cars and negotiating narrow country roads. Therefore, they adopted what they perceived as an over-cautious approach to driving:

“I’m struggling with the idea of ‘will I stall it in their path’, so I’d rather just wait for a gap where there’s no cars coming at all and I can’t hinder people if I do stall it, erm so I will just sit there for massive gaps (laughs).” Participant 1 Interview 1 “And when there’s parked cars on both sides, I struggled with that. I used to want to stop and cause loads of traffic behind me, because I daren’t go through. I’m a lot better at that.” Participant 6 Interview 3

Spatial awareness was a particular difficulty in night driving on unlit roads, a scenario in which a few drivers reported finding it difficult to judge both the dimensions of other cars and the position of their own and other cars on the road:

“…I always then think I’m bigger and the spaces are narrower cos there’s all these different lights…” Participant 13 Interview 1

Seven drivers said that getting used to a different car after passing their test set back their driving skills. These drivers reported that changing cars negatively impacted on control skills such as gear changes, clutch control and steering, and that they felt they needed to ‘relearn’ a feel for these driving techniques:

“I was like, oh God, this is like learning to drive again…the bite point is in a completely different place and everything, so you’re as hesitant as you were when you started to learn.” Participant 8 Interview 3

All of the participants reported that car control skills and an implicit feel for their car’s spatial dimensions and dynamic capabilities improved with practice during the first two months of driving. They reported that they could control the car without consciously thinking about it, could pull away more smoothly, stopped worrying about stalling, and were able to judge the spaces they could fit into. These perceived improvements were positively associated with driving confidence and acceptance of shorter following distances, and smaller gap acceptance at junctions and roundabouts.

“… it's just a natural thing now, it’s like walking, I can get in a car and just drive…” Participant 9 Interview 2

This maturation process included an element of trial and error. Participants reported pulling out when they later felt they should not have done:

“…at the start I was more likely to wait, and then probably last month I’d have pulled out and thought that was a bit close and then carried on, this month I’m probably more timing better.” Participant 7 Interview 3

Having to make their own judgements and have confidence in their decisions was described as an important part of their driving skill acquisition. Although new drivers had to make these judgements while they were learning, the supportive presence of an instructor made these judgements feel qualitatively different:

“Yes I think it's learning the car and just being out by yourself and having to make all the decisions and learning when to go and when to wait and that.” Participant 4 Interview 1

3.1.2. Situation awareness

The participants reported difficulties with understanding the road situation in the early weeks of driving unaccompanied. Some drivers described being unsure where to look at junctions and roundabouts, and struggling in situations where many things were happening at once; such as when there was busy traffic, multiple hazards (e.g., pedestrians, cyclists) or reduced visibility. Some felt their ability to focus on the external road situation was constrained by the attentional demands of car control. They recounted difficulties in driving in novel environments and worried about their ability to react quickly in hazardous situations. Therefore, in the early stages, many drivers favoured familiar routes where they had prior experience of corners, speed limits, road layouts, and routes.

“…it’s not really the roads that’s scary, it’s just the other cars, because you just don’t know what they’re going to do.” Participant 6 Interview 1

With experience, participants reported being more able to focus on the wider road situation, generalize between driving contexts and felt that they could anticipate further ahead, including predicting the actions of other drivers without conscious awareness of the cues they were using.

“I feel like when you become a driver, you end up being able to sense what the other driver's going to do, especially at like roundabouts and stuff.” Participant 11 Interview 2

3.2. Violations and thrill-seeking

Many of the participants believed their lack of competence limited their speed during the early weeks. All participants reported driving increasingly fast over the study duration, which they attributed to improved driving skills and confidence. They drove closer to other cars, took corners more quickly and accepted smaller gaps at junctions. A few drivers tested how fast they could control their cars around corners or tried to drive up to the speed limit on faster roads. For some drivers, this increase in speed demonstrated that their driving skills had improved although it also led to some mistakes, for example on cornering:

“…I've gone round corners in the (place name) and I've swung out to the other side of the road and I've thought quite lucky there wasn't a car there…” Participant 5 Interview 1

A few of the participants reported that they sometimes drove aggressively. They had driven closely behind someone they felt was driving too slowly or had cut in front of them; or had become annoyed at people speeding up when they were trying to overtake. This behaviour developed within the first two months and persisted to the third month.

“…but I think I’m quite a stubborn driver so… if someone’s like pulled out on me and gone slow I’m quite happy to drive really close to them (laughs)… erm and I know it’s probably not great but… I guess…when I get a bit annoyed by other drivers… I’m happy to annoy them back (laughs).” Participant 1 Interview 2

Some of the drivers described a thrilling aspect to driving fast as a temptation to resist. The temptation had worn off as the novelty of driving diminished.

“[On] country roads I’ve never gone over but I do like the ability to be able to drive cos… its like you’ve got no limitations and it is an adrenalin… but… when it comes to the point where it becomes a hazard…that’s when it becomes more of a panic situation…” Participant 11 Interview 1 “it's not as thrilling anymore….. it was like when I first did it I was like oh I'm driving…. now I'm just like eurghh…got to drive…[….]….there's more of a temptation to speed round corners when you first pass…but now I have no temptation so I just don't I suppose…” “So what's the temptation when you first pass do you think?” (Interviewer) “…thrill…. kind of like a rollercoaster… like thrill-seeking… it's kind of oooh that was fun…like ooh I wonder if my car can manage this grip…” Participant 10 Interview 3

Some of the participants reported difficulties driving with peer passengers. This was particularly problematic when driving at night with passengers who had consumed alcohol. In their early weeks of driving, new drivers found this distracting and difficult to manage. A few responded to peer pressure by taking risks:

“Do you ever feel like you show off when you’re driving?” (Interviewer) “To my friends yeah….yeah erm….and like braking later just to show that I can…I mean I’ve never thought about it like this but it…probably is that…erm…and….I don’t like sticking to the speed limit when they’re in the car either… At first erm….because they all knew I was a new driver …they were a lot more happy just to like…let me…drive…but now they… they kind of think that…I should be getting used to driving a bit faster…erm or like pushing it a bit more with lights and stuff…” Participant 1 Interview 3

Many of the drivers developed methods to cope with difficult passengers. These involved reprimanding passengers or avoiding giving them lifts altogether.

“Yeah it was the people that I had in the car … when he was drunk he would tell me when to change gear and was like offering to change it for me … which annoyed me, I pulled over to try and get him out at one point.” Participant 7 Interview 1

All of the drivers who had telematic devices felt that they restricted their speed to keep within the speed limit. Most of these drivers reported that this also limited their ability to keep up with traffic flow at first. However, over time they found the device did not register every time they went over the limit and so tended to drive a little faster. They also became more positive about the role of the device in teaching them to be safer drivers.

“Yeah there weren’t a point where I didn't have the black box, it, I mean that keeps you grounded as well I guess, obviously you don’t speed when you’re with instructor anyway else you’ll fail or whatever but it keeps you grounded and it makes you feel like well I’ve got to drive safe to bring my cost down so it gives an incentive.” Participant 9 Interview 1

3.3. Social status and pressure

The participants reported that driving gave them a sense of independence and maturity, and enhanced their status relative to their peers:

“…it’s a lot more freedom like… I’ve bought a car, got insurance and everything and just being able to park it at work and leave it there and then drive myself home at night…. it feels so much more like grown up than I did before.” Participant 1 Interview 1

Being seen as a good driver by their peers was important throughout the first three months of driving. Most of the drivers described how their confidence had been affected either by praise or criticism from passengers. Initially many participants felt out of place on the road and they all felt that other drivers were judging them.

“… I also feel like the people around me are thinking "how did she pass her test if she's driving this slowly?"…. so I’m trying to keep up a little bit." Participant 3 Interview 1

All of the drivers felt pressure to drive faster or pull out of junctions quicker from cars behind them. Many mentioned difficulties matching the traffic speed and worried other drivers were annoyed with them for failing to keep up. This was regardless of whether annoyance was shown to them or not. Most reported driving faster in some situations as a result.

“…whenever I’ve got someone behind me I do feel a bit like ‘okay I’ve got to be going at the very speed limit otherwise they’ll be getting really upset about it (laughs).” Participant 3 Interview 1

A number of drivers used ‘P’ (provisional) plates to indicate they were inexperienced or to change the behaviour of other cars around them.

“I have noticed I’ve had a couple of drives without my P Plates on and people overtake me a lot more harshly and are like cutting in front of me or they will stop a lot closer behind me at lights erm but with them on they’ll leave me enough space like if I roll back or something.” Participant 1 Interview 1

By the end of the third month all but one of the drivers reported feeling more secure in their driving abilities and that they fitted in on the road. Consequently, they felt less pressure from other drivers. In some cases, the drivers believed their prior projections of annoyance had been unrealistic:

“I think at the start it were just me making things up. But you do, when you are like … because you don’t feel confident in yourself, so you are like oh my God they are looking at me, they are doing this, they are doing that! But actually they’re not.” Participant 6 Interview 3

4. Discussion

This study examined the development of driving behaviour over the first three months of independent driving. We focused on elucidating the behavioural mechanisms underlying the reduction in crash involvement over this time period. Our study had a number of strengths for this purpose. First, the semi-structured qualitative interview supported both a deductive and inductive approach to exploration. Deductive issues were addressed by probing critical issues and situations identified as important in novice driver crash involvement in the existing literature. Inductive advances were facilitated through open ended probes that allowed participants to bring up novel concepts that may have been missed in the existing literature. Second, interviews were collected over repeated contacts spanning the first three months of driving. This allowed participants to report on the process of change as it happened, rather than relying on retrospective report that may be more vulnerable to recall biases. The results yielded are compatible with a number of existing theoretical debates, as described below, and indicate ways to take these debates forward. The interviews also generated new leads that we believe are worthy of further research, as discussed below.

The results must, however, be interpreted in the context of some limitations. First, whilst our detailed analyses were conducted with 36 interviews from 13 participants, it was nevertheless based on data obtained from a volunteer sample recruited from UK educational institutions. As such, the results may not be transferable beyond the sampled population. Given our findings about social pressures, replication with samples drawn from other cultures and settings is particularly important. Despite these limitations, our focused and repeated sampling strategy enabled an in-depth analysis of the process of change over time. In addition, the sample size is commensurate with other thematic analyses. Saturation was achieved as demonstrated by the consistency of the themes generated between participants and the absence of new themes generated by the final participants interviewed.

4.1. Driving skills

We found that our participants perceived that their driving skills improved substantially over the first three months of driving. This included vehicle control skills, such as steering, gear-changing, simple road positioning and awareness of their car’s spatial dynamics. As noted in the introduction, we are unaware of any studies that have measured the development of skills of this sort through the driver training and early independent driving phases. Our participants’ beliefs that their skills were continuing to improve during the post-license phase emphasizes the need for studies of this sort. Our participants described simple car control skills as becoming smoother and less attention-demanding as experience was gained; the hallmarks of automaticity ( Logan, 1988 ). These findings imply that simple driving skills required by novice drivers may not have reached an optimal level of automaticity by the end of training. Further automation may support the decrease in crash involvement observed during the first few months of driving.

At least two mechanisms might underlie a lack of automaticity in these driving skills. First, it may be that the learning phase does not provide a sufficient quantity of practice for automaticity to develop. The Cohort II study provides equivocal evidence. Longer periods of training were associated with lower risk of crash involvement but there was no link between amount of either professional training or informal practice and crash involvement ( Wells et al., 2008 ). Further research is required on this issue, ideally taking into account the possibility that inherently safer drivers may choose longer training periods. If it is found that longer training periods are beneficial then it would be possible to specify a minimum number of hours of driving that must be completed before taking a driving test.

A second possibility is that current training does not provide opportunities to practice, and therefore automate, all the critical aspects of skilled driving that are required during independent driving. This was suggested by our participants, who noted that making decisions when supervised differed from making decisions when driving alone and that they found novel situations particularly difficult. The participants also remarked that their post-license learning involved an element of “trial-and-error”, potentially a particularly dangerous form of learning. The general psychology literature shows that transfer is often most effective when training and performance situations are consistent ( Barnett and Ceci, 2002 ). Therefore, research might explore how the training situation can be made more similar to independent driving. Revisions to the UK practical driving test have started to address the issue of independent driving by requiring candidates to follow a route with only satellite-navigation guidance ( Helman et al., 2010 ). With the increasing availability of cheap technology, training might additionally start to include elements of independent driving via simulations.

The participants highlighted an additional transfer challenge when their independent driving began in an unfamiliar car: the need to re-learn aspects of car control. Further research could address the utility of requiring novice drivers to receive a certain number of professional lessons when they begin using an unfamiliar vehicle, or whether requiring people to drive several different types of car while training might help to develop generalizable skills.

Our participants also perceived an improvement in their situation awareness in terms of their understanding of the complex road environment and the behaviour of other drivers. They felt their skills had improved sufficiently to support anticipation of the actions of other drivers and future road states; the highest level of situation awareness according to Endsley (1995) . While it is likely that substantial further developments in situation awareness take place across years of practice ( Horswill, 2016 ), any improvements in situation awareness over the first three months of driving might contribute to the reduction in crash liability during this period.

It is commonly argued that effective hazard perception, the anticipation of upcoming dangerous traffic situations, depends on the development of the cognitive skills required to maintain accurate situation awareness ( Horswill, 2016 ). Therefore, that our participants believed that their situation awareness improved may be at odds with the single study that found that hazard perception scores did not differ substantially across this period ( Sagberg and Bjornskau, 2006 ). One possibility is that the Sagberg and Bjornskau study did not have sufficient power to detect change over time. Another possibility, as noted by Sagberg and Bjornskau (2006) , and raised by our participants, is that automation of control skills may free attentional resources so that they can be invested in maintaining situation awareness. Simulation measures would not be sensitive to such improvements as they measure hazard perception in isolation from car control. A more powerful and realistic exploration of the time course of novice drivers’ development of situation awareness ability is warranted. This discussion also provides further impetus to explore the benefits of studying the automation of car control skills across driving development.

4.2. Violations and thrill-seeking

Consistent with a number of other studies (e.g., Roman et al., 2015 ), participants reported an overall tendency to drive faster and more aggressively with increasing experience. As noted in the introduction, this tendency runs counter to the decrease in crash involvement observed during this period. Our in-depth exploration provided some pointers to how these opposing trends can co-exist. As with the car control skills, some drivers reported experimenting with their car’s capabilities, particularly when going fast round corners. At some stages this experimentation is likely to provide feedback that the corner has been taken too fast, possibly in the form of a near-crash and occasionally in the form of a crash. This feedback is likely to encourage some reduction in risk-taking, at least in those specific circumstances. A few participants noted that speed was thrilling in the early months of driving but that this diminished over time. This raises the possibility that driving for thrills contributes to the high crash rate in the early weeks of driving.

Further work needs to address both the issues of testing out car capabilities and thrill-seeking during the early months of driving. If these are identified as important aspects of the high crash involvement of newly qualified drivers then the need for prevention efforts will be further emphasized. These aspects of driving may be efficiently combated through enforcement. Telematic devices that monitor driving behaviour offer one option. Our participants that used devices linked to their insurance reported that they did restrict their speed choices, especially during the earliest weeks of driving. Other forms of enforcement that may be able to reduce these forms of behaviour include Graduated Licensing Schemes (GDL) that prohibit novice drivers from driving in situations where thrill-seeking and limit testing is most likely, including driving at night and with same age peers. Schemes of this sort have been implemented in some countries and have been shown to reduce traffic casualties ( Williams, 2007 ).

Our participants perceived pressure to take risks from passengers and there were some reports of responding to these pressures. Although one participant described the pressure as increasing over time, some participants reported that they were finding ways to manage their passengers so that their driving was not compromised; this involved both strategies to manage passengers within the car and strategies to avoid driving with disruptive passengers. The presence of same-age passengers is a well-documented component of risky driving as shown in qualitative ( Ehsani et al., 2015 ; Scott-Parker et al., 2012 ) and quantitative studies ( Ouimet et al., 2015 ). The evidence from our participants indicates that peers might be most problematic in the earliest stages of driving, before coping strategies have developed and car control skills have become automatic, which might reduce any potential negative impact from peer distraction. Therefore, it is possible that for some drivers, peer effects might contribute to the decrease in crash involvement observed during the first few months of driving, although this will need to be confirmed in further research. As well as the GDL enforcement approach to combating peer influences, educational courses during the learner phase might be able to teach strategies to cope with passengers that could be applied as soon as independent driving begins.

4.3. Social status

Participants emphasized the importance of driving to their self-esteem, both in terms of being able to drive and in being perceived as a good driver during real-time driving. The importance of status remained throughout the period studied, but there were substantial developments in the way the participants believed that they were perceived. Initially participants felt that they were inferior to other drivers; they felt unable to keep up with traffic flow and that other drivers perceived them as incompetent. This led to them feeling pressure to drive faster than they would have preferred and to accept gaps that were smaller than they would otherwise have chosen. Over the three months of the study, the participants reported feeling much less pressure from other drivers, citing both their own improving skills and that their original concerns were unrepresentative of the opinions of other drivers. These results are consistent with the findings of Fleiter et al. (2010) which identified perceived pressure from other drivers as a potential risk for dangerous driving in a qualitative study. Unlike our study, Fleiter et al. found that these feelings persisted across a wide age range (17–77 years). However, Fleiter et al. did not focus on very new drivers in their study, so it is possible that these pressures are particularly acute in the early stages of driving.

The desire for status may be a fundamental motivation for many sorts of behaviour in general contexts including displays of overconfidence and conspicuous consumption ( Anderson et al., 2015 ). Little attention has been paid to the concept regarding driving safety. Our results imply that further research is warranted; the participants reported pressure to take risks in the early weeks of driving which reduced over later months. Therefore, behaviour related to status may contribute to the high crash involvement of newly qualified drivers. If this mechanism does prove to be important, then one potential method of remediation might be to make P plates mandatory for the first year of driving. While there is evidence that learner plates increase anger in other drivers ( Stephens and Groeger, 2014 ), our participants who used P plates reported that it made them feel less pressure from other drivers and that other drivers gave them more space as a result. It is also possible that educating learners to drive to their own ability rather than to the perceived expectations of other drivers could be beneficial. This resonates with the Goals for Driver Education (GDE) framework’s recommendation that driver training should aim to better address factors such as personal values, self-control and social context in order to develop safer driving behaviours ( Hatakka et al., 2002 ).

5. Conclusion

This work highlights a number of hypotheses regarding behavioural developments that might underlie the safety improvements observed over the first three months of driving. It is likely that more than one developmental process contributes to the decrease in crash involvement, and these processes may be related. For example, as discussed above, automation of vehicle control skills may improve safety in itself, and also increase attentional resources available to support situation awareness. Novices may be more likely to take risks in the very early stage of independent driving at a time when their vehicle control skills are not fully developed, leading to an elevated crash risk. However, crash risk may be lessened both by subsequent improvements in driving skill and reductions in thrill seeking. This might be evident in speeding for example. Although drivers tend to increase speed with experience over the first few months of driving, they may become better able to identify critical situations where speeding would be very dangerous and moderate their speed in these situations. Finally, with regard to social status, perceived pressure from other drivers in the early stages of independent driving might also compound deficits in driving skill, and lead to increased crash risk through novices’ attempts to keep up with the traffic flow, or drive faster in situation they are not fully prepared for. Identifying these processes provides the opportunity to implement interventions and legislation that could substantially reduce the over-involvement of newly qualified drivers in road traffic crashes. Additionally the finding that driving skills may not be fully developed during the early independent driving phase provides additional support for GDL schemes as a protective mechanism to allow skills to develop in lower risk environments. Implications for alternative, non-legislative approaches to novice driver safety include a need for pre- and post-licence training to focus more on risk and risk situations, social status and personal self-control, in line with objectives of the GDE framework.

Acknowledgements

This work was supported by Medical Research Council Grant MR/N011198/1 awarded to RR, CBS, ARP and DRP. We are grateful to South Yorkshire Safer Roads Partnership for assistance with participant recruitment.

1 Stalling is a relatively common problem in the UK where the majority of cars have manual transmission.

Appendix A Supplementary material related to this article can be found, in the online version, at doi: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.aap.2018.04.007 .

Appendix A. Supplementary data

The following are Supplementary data to this article:

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The Importance of a Safe Driving Attitude

May 15, 2009

One important aspect of driver training is the development of a safe driving attitude. The reason a safe driving attitude is so important is because you will make many choices as you drive, and your driving choices have consequences. There are many benefits to a safe driving attitude, including:

  • limiting stress while on the road
  • saving you money on tickets and increased insurance costs
  • helping you keep your driver license
  • reducing your chances of being in a crash

To have a safe driving attitude, you must have control of your emotions and behavior, practice defensive driving techniques, and accept responsibility for all of your driving decisions.

Emotion is a word used to identify feelings such as anger, fear and joy. If you allow them to, emotions can change the way you assess risk and make driving decisions. When strong emotions such as anger affect you, your ability to make wise decisions may be reduced, increasing your chances of making a mistake. You may be so preoccupied with your anger that you misjudge the risks involved or don’t even notice important events in a particular driving situation.

Always be aware of your state of mind. Look at yourself objectively and decide if you really have the focus and alertness you need to safely use a motor vehicle. If you have any doubt, wait. Give yourself time to calm down and concentrate on safe driving. Learn more about how to avoid a road range incident .

You can expect some emotional stress in your everyday driving. Learning to manage it is important for your safety and the safety of others:

  • If you are angry and excited, take a short walk, write your feelings down or talk to a friend before you get behind the wheel.
  • No matter what is going on in your life, when you get behind the wheel, make a decision that until you arrive safely at your destination, you will focus on driving.
  • Always allow plenty of time to get to your destination so you won’t get impatient with red lights or heavy traffic.
  • Realize that many aspects of driving, such as heavy traffic and the actions of other drivers, are beyond your control. Stay calm when faced with stressful road conditions.

Part of having a safe driving attitude is consistently practicing defensive driving techniques:

  • Make sure your vehicle is properly maintained
  • Wear your safety belt and make sure your passengers do the same
  • Choose a speed appropriate for conditions
  • Make sure you have a space cushion all around your vehicle whenever possible
  • Be alert and aware of the actions of all other road users, including motorcyclists, bicyclists, and pedestrians
  • Watch the road ahead, behind and on both sides of your vehicle
  • Anticipate problems early and select the best course of action in case the worst happens
  • Give other drivers the benefit of the doubt when they make mistakes

Accepting responsibility for our decisions is an important part of becoming an adult. Willingness to do so demonstrates maturity and trustworthiness. When you drive, you must make sure you are willing to accept responsibility for all of your driving decisions. Other drivers cannot make you behave in one way or another; your reactions to their behavior are within your control. You must discipline yourself to put safety first no matter what any other driver does.

Developing a safe driving attitude is an important component of driver training; doing so from the beginning of your driving career will help keep you and others out of harm’s way on the road.

why is safe driving important essay

DriveSafe Online®

The Importance of Establishing a Safe Driving Culture

by DriveSafe Online Staff | Aug 5, 2020 | Fleet Driver Training , Fleet Safety

why is safe driving important essay

Each year, over three million Americans are non-fatally injured in automobile accidents.

Not only does this cause unnecessary pain and suffering to these individuals and their families, but it also creates economic hardships for both families and employers. Medical bills related to car crashes can amount to $75 billion in just one year!

If you’re looking to ensure employee safety and save money while doing it, establishing a safe driving culture in the workplace is essential. Here, we’re going to define what exactly this means and discuss how it can benefit high-level administrators and blue-collar employees alike. We’re also going to give you some pointers on how you can implement this culture in your office, so read on for a more secure and protected workplace.

What Is Safe Driving Culture?

Safe driving culture in the workplace is one where employees understand that there is a need for safe drivers. More than that, however, it’s a culture where these employees make driving safely a top priority.

There are a lot of ways that this can look. You may want to hold monthly meetings to discuss the need for vehicle safety with coworkers and subordinates. This will reiterate the importance of being alert and aware while behind the wheel. It will also make sure that coworkers hold each other accountable for safe driving.

Professionally-taught online courses are another aspect of creating a safe workplace driving culture. With the tools that your employees learn from experts, they will be able to feel more confident on the road and understand traffic rules and regulations thoroughly.

To establish a vehicle safety culture in the workplace, both the CEO and employees must all buy into safe driving philosophy. This is the first step to positively changing attitudes and behavior. When the majority of people are following the rules of the road and believe safe driving to be important, these attitudes are likely to rub off onto everyone else as well.

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Who Needs to Implement These Strategies?

As you might expect, every company that has employees who drive needs a safe driving culture. This means trucking companies and delivery and maintenance businesses, of course, but it also means salespeople that need to drive to meetings with clients. Utility company employees also do quite a bit of driving for work, as do university staff and on-site technicians.

However, even occupations that don’t have employees driving for work regularly should value vehicle safety. If employees get into accidents driving on their own, they won’t be able to come into work. Additionally, preventable accidents simply shouldn’t be happening. You don’t want to see anyone hurt.

Benefits of a Safe Driving Culture

Now you know what a safe driving culture is. That means it’s time to look into the specific reasons that implementing one is a good idea. Read on for some ideas as to why you need to invest in creating this attitude in the workplace as soon as possible.

Keeps Employees Safe

Safety should be any workplace’s number one priority. Because your employees trust you to provide for them, it’s essential that you take this task as seriously as possible.  It’s critical that people feel as safe and secure as possible for many different reasons.

First and foremost, people are valuable and deserve protection.  However, there are more quantifiable reasons for an employer to be concerned with employee safety, too. Those who feel secure are more likely to remain focused while at work and perform better than those who experience anxiety.

Stops People From Missing Work

Additionally, if employees get into car accidents, they likely will miss a lot of time at work. If a person is injured after a car crash, they will need time to heal. As a result, they won’t be able to complete their responsibilities at work, which makes day-to-day tasks more difficult for those employees who are still at work. Your operation will be far less efficient.

You may also still need to pay the person who had the accident. While you wouldn’t need to pay worker’s compensation to a person who gets into an auto accident on their own, you may be forced to pay if the accident takes place on workplace property. This is also the case for those who are driving during their time at work to perform tasks related to their jobs.

Saves Money on Insurance Rates

The average company pays  nearly $7,000 per year  for employee health insurance. Because this is already such a high amount, it’s critical to do all in your power to ensure that these rates don’t rise.

When employees get injured, the amount that you’ll pay in insurance fees can increase. Promoting a safe driving culture in the workplace is a great way to encourage people to be conscious of their safety and prevent injuries. Ultimately, this will lead to your company saving money on insurance. This will allow you to reallocate funds into innovating new software, products, and services.

Prevents Property Damage

Many organizations have at least one company vehicle that employees use for various functions. These vehicles–and the insurance that covers them–are paid for by your workplace. If workers were to get into these cars for site visits and then have an accident, you will have a great deal of property damage fees to cover.

Car insurance rates could also skyrocket and you’re likely going to need to pay to get the vehicle fixed. Additionally, your employees will be left without a way to move from one site to another (assuming that they aren’t meant to use their own cars).

Another reason that safe driving culture is important when driving company vehicles is that you don’t want a lawsuit. If an employee becomes injured while driving a company car, they may be able to sue your workplace. To proactively avoid this, you need to emphasize the importance of road safety and mandate defensive driving courses for employees.

How Can You Establish Safe Driving Culture in the Workplace?

Informing employees about safe driving practices is important. However, it’s not the only thing that you need to do to implement a culture of vehicle safety. The methods for creating and maintaining a safe driving culture vary between different industries and workplaces, but there are many commonalities. Read on to learn some of the actions that you as an employer must take to create this environment in the workplace.

Establish Positive Attitudes

You’ve likely heard that a can-do attitude leads to success, and this is absolutely a true statement.  Having a good attitude  is proven to be the first step towards accomplishing goals. When the goal is safe driving, it’s crucial that you instill positive ideas about safety and control in your employees.

That’s why one of the best ways to establish a safe driving culture at work is to get buy-in from all employees–starting at the top. Encourage managers and leaders to support a safe workplace plan. Make sure that all workers have a good attitude about road safety. Talk to them frequently about why this is a priority and put up signs around the workplace about vehicle safety statistics.

When one person or group of people is excited about road safety, this attitude is likely to rub off on others around the workplace. Remember that positivity is contagious.

Take a Defensive Driving Course

Implementing a defensive driving course is a solid foundation for any workplace safety program. DMV-approved courses include information about the latest driving laws and regulations, plus safety tips and techniques to teach drivers how to anticipate and even avoid dangerous road situations. So the same high-level training is consistently delivered to each employee, whether they are company veterans or

Taking an online accident prevention course has never been easier. Simply choose your state and register for a course in road safety. DriveSafe Online classes are easy to access from any location, and passing them ensures that your workers are up-to-date on safe driving practices.

Defensive driving courses additionally serve to train your fleets in road safety expectations. This means that when a person is driving a work vehicle, the rules as to what they should and shouldn’t do are clear and well-communicated. Whether your fleet consists of two or 200 people, you can rest assured that they have the training to help keep them safe on the road.

Get Started

While there are many important aspects to having a safe and unproblematic workplace, a safe driving course is one of the most critical.

Now that you know why it’s important to establish a safe driving culture in the workplace, it’s time to get started with DriveSafe Online’s defensive driving courses. Request a free demo of our services to see how this course provides the perfect foundation for company driver safety training programs.

So what are you waiting for? Get started and stay safe!

why is safe driving important essay

Patrick M. is Editorial Director for the always expanding DriveSafe Online library of courses. With over two decades of experience developing award-winning training, he now focuses on innovating online driver safety training. Pulling from his background in journalism, he steers the wheel behind the creation of top-tier content that promotes a better journey—whether on the digital highway of learning or the real roads we travel every day.

Sec. 1001.352. FEES FOR DRIVING SAFETY COURSE.

A driving safety provider shall charge each student:

(1) at least $25 for a driving safety course; and

(2) a fee of at least $3 for course materials and for supervising and administering the course.

The DriveSafe Online Florida BDI course is only available for tickets received in Orange and Osceola Counties.

By pressing the confirm button, I am acknowledging that my citation was issued in Orange or Osceola County, Florida.

Importance Of Safe Driving Essay

As children, there are three goals that come to mind when becoming an adult. That is getting married, owning a house and a having car. At a young age, there is an order and anxiety of which task is more reasonable to accomplish first. Marriage will be further down the list because there isn’t an urgency of finding that right person. A house will also be overlooked for now because as a kid, it’s not likely to be approved for a house so young. Last but not least is an exquisite vehicle to ride around town. So from the house and the marriage, the more likely and most reasonable choice is getting a car as the first priority.

So the next step would be getting a drivers hand book from the local driver’s motor vehicle (DMV) and study it from front to back knowing everything about driving. Once he or she passed the driving test, reality hits and life turns a new chapter. The teens now are becoming an adult and if he or she is fortunate to have parents or guardians, they would give the new coming adult a new car on the driveway. Showing common courtesy, the teens will say thank you a million times and show an abundance of gratitude. Then a couple of months pass and the drivers feel like everything is great.

They are following the rules of the road and so are other drivers. However, on a particular day on the road, a driver experiences a tense situation. The driver ahead has left their signal on to turn right, but never turns. The teen starts honking and screaming with the corresponding driver, as his or her frustration continues to build. This causes a huge commotion, causing traffic to not work accordingly. Where does it all change for people, being so appreciative of having a car and showing common courtesy to drastically changing into an ungrateful driver?

To the point where people forget their morals on what is right and what is wrong. By diminishing common courtesy drivers will increase the risks to drivers and all others on the road, such as careless driving, health threats, and the risk of interfering with the law. To start with, drivers that don’t have the time to express good manners could result to careless thinking which can lead into careless driving. For instance, if an elderly pedestrian was walking along an intersection and the light was green. That pedestrian fate could lead in two ways.

The pedestrian could have been harmed due to the fact that drivers didn’t to show any patience or aware of their surroundings. The right way to approach this situation would be for drivers to respond by letting the elder pass along. Same rule goes, if a gaggle of geese was letting their feathers dry on the road. Drivers shouldn’t honk their car horn to scare them away. They should either wait for them to pass or drive alongside them. Driving through a red light could be considered careless driving, as can driving inappropriately close to other vehicles.

Ultimately all things are at risk when a careless driver is on the road. Deprived of using common courtesy, no one would be safe. Eventually, drivers who do not exhibit good manners on the road can not only carry out careless driving, but can also lead to health threats. Cars are built to keep drivers safe and sane, but are responsible for a lot of lives past away. A potential health effect is stress. The stress levels like your blood pressure will be high. For an example, if a car is driving under the speed limit on a highway on the left lane.

Speaking for many complaints from fellow drivers, that type of action frustrates a driver. Likewise, Headaches and migraines could also arise when driving. Drivers who have road rage could show continuous of yelling or honking at other vehicles. These reactions of drivers lead to high tension headaches in which people can develop it after crazy disturbances. The most important health threat is the risk of getting into an accident. Sixty-six percent of traffic fatalities are caused by aggressive driving. Over half the percentages of death rates are car accident causes.

Some drivers cannot let their differences aside without putting themselves in bad situations. It doesn’t matter if the accident was immense or diminutive because they are always an after effect. Whether it’s mentally or physically, that driver and the rest of the people involve will not walk out the same person before the accident. Drivers must use common sense which leads to common courtesy on the road. It may be infectious to others and the end result of an easier and safer drive. As the final point, not having proper driving etiquette can result in interfering with law.

The importance of traffic laws is it intended to protect drivers like myself and other drivers on the road. By knowing the rules of the road, performing good driving abilities and usually taking care as a road user, everyone then can help play a vital role in avoiding a crash. This is made apparent when the traffic laws say that to yield the right of way to pedestrians and drivers. If individuals did not follow his law, the accident rate, would double immensely. More importantly, if taken the wrong way, the situation can escalate and lead to sixty days community service and the more erious cases jail time.

An example being is if a driver was stopped by a police officer, and the driver didn’t show acceptance of what he did and treated the officer in an unkind manner. That driver wouldn’t just have received a ticket but will be arrested for police harassment. If only the driver would have confessed what he did wrong and promise the police officer that he will not do it again. The officer could have taken a moment and came to a conclusion that this driver should receive a warning. The first appearance says everything about a person.

If the action is shown to be bad or good, don’t be surprised by the response of the person on the other end hearing it. All drivers should constantly recall that driving is a privileged, not a right. If this statement is taken advantage, there will be more trouble in the future for drivers. Common courtesy is being a safe driver. It will be making road safety policies more effective. In essence, common courtesy is the slight difference between making it in the world and losing it all. Drivers are expected that appropriate courtesy is understood because it’s been taught from a young age from family members and at school.

Somehow, however the transitions from a kid to an adult go away when step inside a vehicle. If drivers continue to not display common courtesy towards fellow drivers it could lead to careless driving, health threats, and interfering with the law. Drivers, be aware that not every driver is on their A game when behind the wheel. Continuing to show courtesy, it’s more likely that others drivers will notice and will pay it forward. The overall message has been being courteous to others while driving.

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