Issue Essay Revision

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Part 2: Audience Analysis  Summary of Intended Audience Members: o The primary audience for my issue essay, "Steering Toward Safety: Empowering Young Drivers in the DMV," is parents of young drivers residing in the DMV (Washington D.C., Maryland, and Virginia) region. This group holds safety and the well-being of their teenage children as their top priorities. They are deeply concerned about the unique challenges young drivers face in this region, including inexperience, immaturity, and specific road conditions. Parents seek practical guidance on promoting responsible driving habits, understanding the risks, and taking steps to protect their children. Additionally, as active contributors to com- munity well-being, they often engage in discussions on social media. o The secondary audience comprises members of the "DMV Friends" Facebook group. This group, while also valuing safety and community well-being, primarily seeks to stay informed about young driver safety issues and looks for solutions to make their neighborhoods safer. They engage in discussions on social media plat- forms, particularly within the "DMV Friends" Facebook group.  Values and Traits : o Primary Audience (Parents of Young Drivers): Safety is paramount to these par- ents, who are deeply concerned about the safety of their teenage children while on the road. They prioritize responsibility and education to instill responsible driving habits and ensure their children are well-informed about safe driving practices. Moreover, they value community well-being as they actively seek to contribute to safer roads for everyone.

o Secondary Audience (Parents from DMV Friends Facebook Group): Members of this group similarly hold safety as a top priority, desiring safe neighborhoods and roadways. They value responsibility and education to promote responsible driving behaviors within their communities. Community well-being is central to their concerns as they work to safeguard their neighborhoods from the dangers of reck- less driving.  Information Needs: o Primary Audience (Parents of Young Drivers): These parents require essential in- formation to ensure the safety of their teenage children on the road. They need practical guidance on promoting responsible driving habits, understanding the risks, and taking steps to protect their children. Accessible and practical advice through platforms like Facebook. o Secondary Audience (Parents from DMV Friends Facebook Group): Members of this group seek to stay informed about young driver safety issues and may look for solutions to make their neighborhoods safer. They need information on com- munity initiatives, awareness campaigns, and resources to promote road safety. This information can be disseminated through local news outlets, community fo- rums, and social media platforms where discussions on regional issues take place.  Where is this Information Being Read: o Primary Audience (Parents of Young Drivers): These parents often seek advice and share information on platforms like Facebook.

o Secondary Audience (Parents from DMV Friends Facebook Group): Information is shared and discussed within the "DMV Friends" Facebook group and on other social media platforms where discussions on local issues occur.

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Part 3: Azmayn Navid Professor Yaqub ENGL394 11/10/23 Steering Toward Safety: Empowering Young Drivers in the DMV Picture this: you're a young driver navigating the roads of the DMV region, which en- compasses Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia. The engine purrs as you grip the wheel, but chaos surrounds you. Reckless drivers speed by, weaving through traffic, and accidents seem too familiar. It's a scene you've witnessed, a challenge you've faced daily. Now, imagine the weight of knowing that the safety of countless young drivers like yourself rests on the decisions made on these challenging roads. It's not just a matter of statistics; it's personal. This is the world I've come to know as a young driver in the DMV. Recent research (Zero Deaths Maryland, 2022) has highlighted the unique challenges young drivers face in this region, underscoring the pressing need for action. This research sug- gests that young drivers aged 16 to 20 encounter heightened risks due to their inexperience, im- maturity, and the specific conditions of the DMV roads. The statistics reveal a concerning reality —about 34% of all injury crashes involving young drivers occur between April and July, earning the ominous nickname "the 100 Deadliest Days." While young drivers constitute a small portion of road users, their involvement in 50% of young driver-involved fatal crashes paints a sobering picture. Disturbingly, nearly 56% of all young drivers involved in crashes are male, with three- quarters of deadly accidents involving young drivers being young males.

This is the world where young drivers must learn to navigate, and it's imperative to un- derstand that it's not just their responsibility but a collective obligation to address these issues. In this essay, we embark on a journey to delve deeper into the heart of the issue, unearthing com- pelling evidence from various sources that shouts why this issue demands our immediate atten- tion. The research question at this essay's core emerges from my experiences and observations as a young driver in the DC, Maryland, and Virginia (DMV) region. These experiences have led me to question the factors contributing to the high prevalence of car accidents involving young driv- ers in this area. Through this essay, I explore this issue in-depth, drawing upon my background and existing research to form a comprehensive understanding. The primary aim is not merely to inquire for my own sake but to encourage my audience to recognize this issue's significance and join in addressing it. Body: The issue of young driver safety in the DMV region is not a simple matter; it's a multifac- eted and pressing challenge that demands our immediate attention. This issue transcends mere statistics; it's deeply personal, as the safety and well-being of our young drivers are at stake. The prevalence of accidents involving young drivers raises a critical question: what factors contribute to this high rate of incidents, and how can we address them effectively? Young Driver Vulnerabilities: One key aspect of this issue lies in the vulnerabilities of young drivers. They are more susceptible to accidents due to immaturity, limited skills, and a lack of experience. As high- lighted by an organization called Zero Deaths Maryland, "Young drivers face a significantly higher risk on the road due to these vulnerabilities" (Zero Deaths Maryland 2022). These vulner- abilities make the issue of young driver safety especially pressing in our DMV region. To ad-

dress this, we must recognize that a one-size-fits-all approach will not suffice; instead, a tailored strategy that accounts for these vulnerabilities is essential. Distracted Driving: Distracted driving is a pervasive issue, particularly among young drivers. As emphasized in Consumer Reports' article by Stockburger (2019), parental involvement is pivotal in mitigat- ing this problem. Parents are essential in educating and enforcing responsible driving behavior among teenagers. They can set an example for their children by using smartphones moderately, being responsible hosts, and never driving under alcohol. Addressing distracted driving at an early stage by instilling responsible driving habits can make a substantial difference in reducing accidents caused by this dangerous behavior. This issue requires a holistic approach involving the DMV region's young drivers and their parents. We can collectively combat distracted driving by fostering responsible driving practices and parental guidance. Policy and Enforcement: While local authorities and law enforcement agencies play a crucial role in safeguarding roads and enforcing traffic laws, parents also have a significant role in shaping the driving be- havior of young individuals. Simons-Morton, Ouimet, and Catalano (2008) discuss the impor- tance of parenting in the context of young drivers, emphasizing that parental involvement is es- sential in addressing the young driver problem. Parents play a critical role in promoting safe driving behaviors among their children. Despite some improvements in road safety measures, research conducted by McCartt, Northrup, and Retting (2004) indicates that challenges persist in curbing accidents involving young novice drivers. This highlights the need for parents to actively engage in the development

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and enforcement of policies within their households. Stricter enforcement and targeted policy in- terventions by parents can contribute significantly to making the roads safer for young drivers. Parents can set clear expectations regarding responsible driving, establish rules for safe behavior on the road, and consistently enforce these guidelines. Additionally, they can monitor and mentor their young drivers, providing constructive feedback and guidance as they gain expe- rience. Creating a supportive and structured environment at home, where responsible driving is prioritized, can complement broader policy measures and contribute to overall road safety for young drivers in the DMV region. Community Awareness: Community involvement and awareness are vital components of addressing this issue, es- pecially for parents engaged in online communities like the 'DMV Friends' Facebook group. Re- cent viral crashes have led to awareness campaigns, and it's crucial for parents in these groups to actively participate and disseminate information. As reported by Derrick Ward (2023) in NBC4 Washington, Fairfax County utilizes inci- dents like these to educate parents and young drivers about the dangers of reckless driving. This information is particularly relevant to parents in the 'DMV Friends' Facebook group, as they ac- tively participate in discussions on local issues through social media platforms (Facebook 2020). Parents in these online communities can leverage the collective strength of the group to raise awareness about young driver safety issues. They can share relevant articles, statistics, and safety tips within the group, fostering a culture of responsibility and safety. Additionally, orga- nizing or participating in local events and initiatives aimed at promoting road safety can be an ef- fective way for parents in these online communities to contribute actively to the cause.

The 'DMV Friends' Facebook group serves as a valuable platform for sharing informa- tion, initiating discussions, and collectively working towards a safer driving environment for young individuals in the DMV region. Parents in these groups can play a pivotal role in shaping community awareness and fostering a sense of shared responsibility for young driver safety. Why Does This Issue Matter? This issue holds immense significance because the safety of young drivers is a shared concern among parents and the broader community. Parents play a crucial role in establishing re- sponsible driving habits. However, despite these efforts, the problem persists, and there's an ur- gent need for effective interventions. As Cassarino and Murphy (2018) point out, young novice drivers still face considerable risks despite some improvements, and effective interventions are needed. The safety of young drivers is not just an isolated concern but a matter of public safety and community well-being. A Call to Action for Parents of Young Drivers and Parents in DMV Friends Community: As we move forward, parents hold a key role in implementing the strategies and recom- mendations discussed in this essay, addressing the complex challenge of young driver safety in the DMV region. For both parents of young drivers and parents in the DMV Friends community, the safety of young drivers is not solely an individual concern but a shared responsibility that de- mands collective action. For Parents of Young Drivers: Encouraging parents to initiate open conversations with their teenagers about responsible driving remains paramount. The importance of setting a good example, as highlighted in the arti- cle by Consumer Reports (Stockburger, 2019), cannot be overstated. Parents should motivate and engage in meaningful discussions with their teenagers, ensuring they understand the value of re-

sponsible driving. Sharing personal experiences, discussing potential risks, and emphasizing the significance of safe driving habits are crucial steps in shaping responsible young drivers. Moreover, parents should actively seek and share resources for road safety education. Programs like Maryland's Graduated Licensing System, as mentioned in Article 2, offer valuable knowledge and experience for young drivers (Zero Deaths Maryland, 2022). By ensuring that their teenagers gain access to these resources, parents contribute significantly to creating a gener- ation of informed and responsible drivers. For Parents in DMV Friends Community: Members of the 'DMV Friends' Facebook group, as active participants in online discus- sions on local issues, have a unique opportunity to leverage the collective strength of the commu- nity. A call to action for these parents involves utilizing the platform to share information, raise awareness, and collectively work towards a safer driving environment. Additionally, parents in these online communities can consider organizing or participat- ing in local events and initiatives aimed at promoting road safety. As reported by Derrick Ward (NBC4 Washington, 2023), recent viral crashes have led to awareness campaigns, underscoring the necessity of comprehensive safety education and enforcement efforts. By actively engaging in these activities, parents contribute to a shared sense of responsibility within the community, working together to address the challenges young drivers face in the DMV region. Conclusion In conclusion, both parents of young drivers and parents in the DMV Friends community are urged to collaborate, embrace evidence-based approaches, and foster a culture of responsible driving. By doing so, we can collectively navigate toward a safer future for our young drivers in the DMV area.

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Part 4 Work Cited: Scholarly:  Cassarino, M., & Murphy, G. (2018, July). Reducing young drivers' crash risk: Are we there yet? an ecological systems-based review of the last decade of research . Transportation Research Part F: Traffic Psychology and Behaviour. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1369847817307192  Simons-Morton, B., Ouimet, M., & Catalano, R. (2008, August). Parenting and the young driver problem . American Journal of Preventive Medicine. https://www.sciencedi - rect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0749379708005230  McCartt, A., Northrup, V., & Retting, R. (2004, February 24). Types and characteristics of ramp-related motor vehicle crashes on urban interstate roadways in Northern Vir- ginia . Journal of Safety Research. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/ S0022437504000039 Secondary:  Zero Deaths Maryland (2022, October 24). Young or teenage drivers safety - zero deaths . https://zerodeathsmd.gov/road-safety/young-driver-safety/  Stockburger, J. (2019, May 22). What parents can do to protect their teen drivers . Con- sumer Reports. https://www.consumerreports.org/teen-driving/what-parents-can-do-to- protect-teen-drivers/  Derrick Ward, N. R. (2023, May 5). Fairfax Co. to parents: Use viral crash as a teach- able moment . NBC4 Washington. https://www.nbcwashington.com/news/local/fairfax- co-to-parents-use-viral-crash-as-a-teachable-moment/3341893/  Cloherty, M. (2023, February 15). Teen drivers the focus of Fairfax Co. distracted driv- ing prevention . WTOP News. https://wtop.com/fairfax-county/2023/02/fairfax-county- police-increase-speed-enforcement-hone-in-on-distracted-drivers/  WRAP. (2023, May 3). Summer months usher in the deadliest period for teen drivers . https://wrap.org/summer-months-usher-in-deadliest-period-for-teen-drivers-3/  Facebook. DMV Friends (2020, November 15). https://www.facebook.com/groups/ dmvfriend

 Swalec, A., & Hageman, A. (2023, October 19). Maryland officer loses legs after teen driver ‘intentionally’ hits him on I-270: police. NBC4 Washington . https://www.nbcwash- ington.com/news/local/montgomery-county-officer-critically-hurt-in-i-270-crash-drivers- told-to-expect-delays/3446928/

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