What were the biggest things you learnt while completing this task?

I already knew that mobile phones were a huge issue for drivers, and how risky going on your phone can be, however I didn’t know just how many crashes occur, and all the statistics. The statistics show how ‘taking a quick look’ at your phone for 5 seconds can distract you for the entire length of a football field. This means you are at a huge risk for a very long distance, despite only taking a mere 5 second look at your phone, despite the ongoing belief that a quick look is not dangerous. Some of the most shocking statistics being that approximately 660,000 drivers are attempting to use their phone whilst driving, that mobile phones cause 1.6 million crashes annually, and that 94% of teen drivers acknowledge the risks of texting/calling while driving, however, 35% percent still admit to doing so.

What one piece of advice would you pass on to young drivers above all else? Why?

Always drive to the road conditions. You don’t have to be fast 24/7. Taking it slower and more cautious is better than risking it and going fast. You can always leave a little earlier so you aren’t late in bad road conditions. Lots of young drivers think they have to/want to go fast all the time; however, it is more important to keep yourself and others around you safe on the road. For example, if it is raining, and the roads are slippery, drive slower to avoid your tires slipping. If it’s foggy, or your vision is affected, also go slower so that you can more easily react if something appears suddenly that you couldn’t see before.

Write down a pledge that you will commit to when you start driving. Why did you pick these things to commit to? How will you stick to these commitments?

I pledge to always stay aware of myself, and my car, and those around me. I pledge to always remove possibly distracting devices/equipment out of my reach whilst driving. I pledge to always prioritise the safety of myself, my passengers, and those around me. I pledge to always only drive if I am fit and healthy to do so, so when I am not fatigued, or under the influence of alcohol. And finally, I pledge to always stay focused when driving. I will do this by always remaining focused while driving, keeping distracting devices out of my reach, and determine whether I am fit to drive based on my current status. In doing this, I will be able to keep myself, and all those around me safe.

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