Danger Behind the wheel

Driving is a privilege given to those who demonstrate the ability to operate a vehicle safely and maturely. This freedom, however, is sometimes taken for granted and abused. When abused, tragic mistakes can occur that put other drivers in danger. Accidents are primarily caused by distractions to the driver. The components of these events occurring include electronic and communication devices, passengers and drivers of other vehicles, and the consumption of food and illegal beverages.

There are many new luxuries and technologies that aid us in our life today. These, however, are not always useful while driving. Electronic and communication devices, being some of these, impair awareness inside the vehicle. One such device is the cell phone. Many drivers today are engaged in conversation on their phones, crippling them from making quick decisions. This distraction causes many accidents and loss of life. After the rise of s

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The factors that can result in distraction include cell phones, radios, video players, numerous passengers, road rage, eating, and alcohol consumption. While reaching for a CD, the drivers eyes are averted from the highway to the CD player. Eating and driving is very dangerous and can cause collisions. Eating while stationary is much safer then eating while driving. The passengers can also create a high level of noise and decrease the drivers hearing. Driver controlled steering wheels and memory buttons, reduce this risk greatly if equipped. The radio also affects drivers concentration by distracting their eyes from the road.

Another interference to optimum driving can be caused by social distractions.

To prevent this, the video player should be placed out of sight and sound to the driver who must have his total attention on the road. Tailgating, obscene gestures, and weaving through traffic are all considered elements of road rage. An intoxicated driver often makes poor decisions and is easily distracted. Speakerphones, headsets, and Onstar are some examples of these alternatives. This is an especially dangerous distraction with continually growing traffic problems. Any sudden reaction to a road hazard can cause this event to occur. Choking can be caused by inhaling food particles that clog the airways and create a bronchospasm.

Approximate Word count = 643
Approximate Pages = 3 (250 words per page double spaced)

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