Issues about the Proposed Drivers Education Bill

Though this is specially related to matters such as road safety, vehicle accidents and prevention, I would like to discuss it no less because I think this is equally important to those who are just learning how to drive.

The article, “New Drivers Education Bill in California Senate”, posted in February 26, 2008, mentions a newspaper report about the bill introduced by Sen. Tom Torlakson (Antioch) which was intended “to teach teens how to drive”.

According to the proposed bill, drivers who are about to take their DMV test will be required to pay an additional $10 to $27 fee as contribution to the drivers education fund.

Although it is not yet clear who will manage the program, the proponents of the bill should be commended for taking into consideration the issue of teen driving. This bill is not only timely, but it is also long overdue.

Statistics show that there is a growing number of teenagers involve in vehicle accidents across the country. Most of these accidents often result in serious injuries with sometimes-fatal consequences.

Several factors may account for these accidents. Among the causes of accidents, involving teenagers include the following:

• Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs

• Violation of traffic laws

• Driver’s inattention and lack of focus

I hope this bill will ultimately help teenagers and young drivers on how to behave on the road. I believe a driver’s education program would help in preventing many road accidents.

Moreover, I would like to see a more comprehensive law that will not only address teenage driving problems but general motoring issues as well. I am expecting a more stringent penalty for those who drive intoxicated and those who participate in illegal road car races.

If not, I hope the proposed driver’s education program will develop new ways to instill proper driving manners and skills to young drivers and eventually, reduce the number of accidents on the road.

With the passing of this bill, we hope to see a decrease in the number of vehicle accidents involving teenagers and perhaps, experience a better and safer road travel in the future.