Kansas City Lawyer Striving to Create a Safe Driving Culture
Many drivers sense an overall decline in the driving culture over the last 10 years. Much of this is due to a growing number of distracted, impatient, and aggressive drivers.
At Drive By Example, an extension of Horn Law, we understand why people are driving more dangerously. As technologies increase, the need for speed and productivity play a bigger role in our lives. In a related way, cell phones have changed the way we go about our daily routine, giving us an indispensable electronic companion that dictates how we stay in touch, get information, and manage our lives.
Unfortunately, as a result of the above societal influences, we face a new universe of risk on the roadway. Ten years ago, perhaps 3 to 4% of the drivers on the road at any one time were considered dangerous drivers. Now, reports show that up to 25% of the drivers are engaging in behaviors that put themselves and others in harms way.
Given all of this, it is important that traffic safety experts consider new approaches to promote safe driving that leads to driving culture change. Two recommendations follow:
First, State transportation authorities and officials should use media and roadway campaigns to promote a universal driver safety message that influences all drivers to protect themselves, their passengers, and others on the roadway by driving defensive.
By emphasizing the need for a defensive approach to driving, we can effectively change driver habits and behaviors. This is so because self-preservation always will be a strong motivator. Also, because the message is applicable to all drivers, it also helps to keep driving safety high on the public consciousness, which is a key element in shifting a culture.
Drive By Example can help contribute to this solution. By using the Drive By Example platform, states can develop a communications program that advances the need for defensive driving and helps reverse the downward trend of our driving culture.
Secondly, driving safety education should be made part of the State’s high school education requirements. Easily implemented with a high school’s health curriculum, driving safety education would give students an appreciation for high risks associated with driving, but also gives them the foundation for becoming defensive drivers.
In this regard, Drive By Example has developed the framework for a base driving safety curriculum. While this program does not replace traditional driver education, it does help students recognize the duty to drive using the highest degree of care.
For answers to questions you may have about how to make a driving culture change, please contact our offices. We are here to help you!
