Distracted Drivers

Distracted driving has been defined as any activity that could divert a person's attention away from the primary task of driving, inherently endangering driver, passenger, and bystander safety. Unfortunately, despite staggering reports of serious automobile accidents caused by said distraction, the roads we travel are no safer. Lawmakers in part, can contribute considerably to increase the safety of the roads we travel. They can do so by strengthening existing laws, enacting and enforcing new laws, and taking certain legal measures. All of these actions combined could help in creating greater awareness of the danger in which everyone is placed by distracted drivers. One method legislators could look to in reeling back this problem is enforcing costlier fines. In most cases, fines already constitute part of the punishment for consequences of distracted driving. Doubling these fines could be enough in most cases to force drivers to keep their attention focused on the road. Another method of punishment in lieu of or in addition …show more content…
Organizing groups for victims of distracted driving and their families can have a positive, sobering impact on distracted drivers. Making participation in these classes mandatory can further encourage the latter to avoid dividing their attention behind the wheel, as lives are at stake. For repeat offenders, perhaps legislators could look to imposing heavier sentences that include incarceration. Driving is a privilege, not a right, and should be only for those whom understand the responsibility that comes with it. It could also prove to be beneficial for those seeking to obtain a license for the first time to undergo mandatory courses on the perils of distracted driving. A comprehensive course that covers the causes and -often disastrous- effects of distracted driving can teach someone how their actions can directly contribute to everyone’s