Driving Hazards, So Easily Ignored
By: Cg Ayson
![Picture](/uploads/1/2/4/2/124296628/editor/gtdgfdghdf.jpg?1550572673)
Driving a car is an experience most young people can expect to do when they grow up. However it is not a skill that comes without risk, because a single careless mistake can bring serious damage. Road accidents are one of the leading causes of death according to Rappler, reaching a staggering number of 1.25 Million casualties a year. There was once an incident in the campus of the Ateneo De Manila Grade School where a student was hit by a car and passed away. If this can happen in a secure area like a school, what more so out in public roads?
There are many road hazards that cause these incidents, but like there are many hazards, there are many ways to avoid them.
The first hazard, as seen with the image above is driving while using a cellphone. During the advent of the hot mobile game, Pokemon Go, there was an incident where a teenager was hit by an incoming car because of the appearance of a Pikachu in her game in the middle of the road. Usage of phones while behind the wheel is also a popular representation of the problems of its usage. Many commercials show that using the phone while on the wheel can cause distractions, leading to chaotic aftermaths. The best way to avoid this is to put away the phone while on the wheel. There is a time and place for everything, and no matter what call you receive, it should not be so important as to compromise your life.
The second hazard is when driving under the influence of alcohol, as seen on the header. Drunk driving is an act that is condoned in many countries, even having laws against it that can send people to jail if they are caught. Driving under influence is large cause of death in the USA, with one person every 48 minutes back in 2017. This is an obvious road hazard with a similar solution to the first, avoid getting behind the wheel when drunk. It would be much easier to take a cab when alone, or have a designated driver who is sober when out with friends.
The final road hazard on this list is driving when weary or tired, as seen by the picture below. According to a blog by Towing Austin Pros, exhaustion can cause the dulling of reflexes that can cause people to become more prone to accidents. It's in the best interest that the driver must get enough rest before going on a drive, and taking breaks in the middle of long road trips. This ensures that the driver is well rested and sharp enough drive long distances without any complication.
It only takes a little awareness to find these hazards when on the road. Everyone will have to learn to take the wheel one day, so I pray that when you do, you will be ready.