THE MORALITY OF DRIVING

In 2012, 34,080 people died in American auto accidents. That is 93 deaths each day. By comparison, in the Viet Nam War, 58,209 Americans died. The war lasted 14 years (1961-1975) so the death rate was 4158 persons per year, whereas in 2012 alone, 34,080 died in auto accidents. In Viet Nam it was 11 deaths per day. In America in 2012 it was 93 deaths per day in auto accidents.

Ought there not be an outrage against this domestic killer? Yes, the seat belt law saved an estimated 12,174 lives in 2012. Yes, raising the minimum drinking age to 21 saved an estimated 525 lives in 2012. Nonetheless, in 2012, 31% of the total auto accident deaths were alcohol- related in spite of efforts to have a designated driver. And statistics on drug-related auto accident deaths were not readily available.

A car is a 3000 pound missile requiring skill, awareness and the exercise of great caution in defensive driving. Speeding, texting, reckless driving, running red lights and stop signs (very much on the increase in my observation) must be disallowed in the conscience of each driver.

Some years ago a transportation expert addressed our group about traffic safety. He spoke of the three “E’s” – Engineering, Education and Enforcement. We all have seen highway and road designs destined to produce accidents. Driver education does not seem to be as diligent, especially with new arrivals to the U.S. While the police cannot be everywhere at once, more thorough and stringent enforcement against the careless, distracted, reckless and intoxicated driver is surely needed.

The Viet Nam War killed 11 per day, whereas automobile accidents kill 93 per day or 6.6 times as many. No one wants to give up the car. What we need to do is give up careless and inebriated driving and road rage.

Responsible driving is a moral-ethical duty.