Every day, we get into our vehicle and run errands or go to work. We take our kids to school. We live our lives and rarely spend time thinking about the “what ifs” of driving our car. However, chances are good, we all know at least one person who has been in a car accident or maybe even lost their lives due to someone not being responsible behind the wheel. We have all seen crosses on the side of the road for lost loved ones. What you may not realize is that there are also organizations that have been set up simply as a memorial for lost drivers.
Scary Statistics
In the United States, just under 40,000 people lost their lives due to driving-related accidents in 2016. The most dangerous roadways in the U.S. include California, Texas, and Florida. This makes it one of the leading causes of death. It kills more people each year than cancer or all other health-related deaths.
One of the most popular organizations devoted to keeping roadways safer is MADD (Mothers Against Drunk Driving). This organization got its start in September 1980 by Candace Lightner. Her daughter, a happy 13-year-old, was killed by a drunk driver.
In the UK residents who want to remember a loved one may turn to “RoadPeace” which is a national charity for accident victims and their families. It was founded by Brigitte Chaudhry, after the death of her son in 1990.
Yet another is the World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims. It is held the third week in November when everyone takes a moment to think about the many lives lost to vehicle accidents.
Think Before You Drive
In a world where driving is one of the most frequent things we do and one of the most deadly chances we take; we have to prepare for the possibility. It could happen in mere seconds. No one sets out in the morning expecting to have an accident. No one wants to have their life come to a sudden end.
There are things you can do to ensure your safety. Not all of them require you to go to church every Sunday and pray for safety. It is not a case like the Hebrews say, “do not forsake the assembling of yourselves”. You simply have to practice good driving habits.
For instance, you should avoid distracted driving. Keep your phone put away until you are no longer driving and avoid distracting the driver if you are a passenger. Avoid driving while under the influence of anything and encourage others to do the same.
What More Can You Do?
Every vehicle owner, driver, and passenger puts their life at risk when they get into a vehicle. Buses, trains, planes, cars, and all other types of transportation can be dangerous in the right circumstances. If you avoid taking risks, drive safely, and learn how to stay more alert on the roadways; you will stay safer. If you have already lost a loved one, or simply want to help others stay safe, you can donate to one of the many charities that help to make our roads safer. Its never too late to start thinking about the risks that we face daily. And it could even save your life to learn all that you can.