
It is pertinent to note that wearing lap/shoulder belts can reduce the risk of dying in a crash by 45%
KARACHI: Learning to drive is a time of exciting possibilities and achievements for most teenagers. But it’s also a time of grave risks. Car accidents are also a leading cause of death as distractions are a problem for everyone, especially teenagers.
Using cellphones for talking, texting, email or other internet use is a proven cause of accidents and must be strictly avoided. In fact, all new drivers should take a driver’s education course. These courses have been proven to reduce accidents. Moreover, teenage drivers should not be allowed to have passengers below the age of 18 travelling with them for the first 1,000 miles or six months after they get their licence.
Only after six months should they be allowed to do that. These precautions will give new drivers time to become familiar with driving without an adult and hence, reduce risks. Further, it is pertinent to note that wearing lap/shoulder belts can reduce the risk of dying in a crash by 45%. As a result, wearing seat belts should be encouraged as teenagers have the lowest rate of seat belt use.
Syed Muhammad Ahsan Ali
Published in The Express Tribune, April 5th, 2018.
Like Opinion & Editorial on Facebook, follow @ETOpEd on Twitter to receive all updates on all our daily pieces.