Making life or death choices

  • Published
  • By Mike Jett
  • 82nd Training Wing Safety Office
SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas (AFNS) --  We make choices every day. Some don't require much thought while others take time and analysis.

But some of the most important decisions, or choices, that could be the difference between life and death are often ignored. Especially when it comes to the big four; seatbelts, excessive speed for conditions, distracted driving and alcohol.

We are overwhelmed with statistics proving that if you are involved in a vehicle mishap, survivability is greatly increased by wearing a seatbelt.

In 2008, 55 percent of fatally injured passenger vehicle occupants were unrestrained, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

People are still dying because they were unbuckled, knowing that seatbelts save lives. They made the choice not to wear their seatbelt.

The speed limit isn't always the safest speed to travel. We've all seen dense fog or curves in the road where the speed limit is greatly reduced. The speed you drive, either alone or with family or friends, is a choice.

When students were asked during a traffic safety class how many of them send text messages while they drive, the response was astounding. Three quarters of the room raised their hands. 

"I've been known to text, find a song on my iPod, eat and smoke all while I'm driving," one student said. "I know it's probably not safe, but I do it anyway."

Driving while distracted is a choice.

Members of the 82nd Security Forces Squadron at Sheppard Air Force Base, Texas, have apprehended people at the main gate for driving under the influence when there is a completely sober passenger in the car. The driver made the choice to drink and drive. The passenger made the choice to allow the driver to drive drunk and put him or herself and others at risk.

Life is all about choices. We are provided all the information we need to weigh the benefits against the risk. 

The choices made may be the difference in life or death. Not only for you, but also for the innocent who will be affected by your choice.