CALIFORNIA — The following essay by James Kealohi was submitted to Johnson Attorneys Group for the 2023 Never Drink and Drive Scholarship Competition. The winner will be chose by Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) and announced later this month.
James Kealohi’s Essay
Drunk driving has affected countless individuals, including myself, my friends, and my family
members. The consequences of this irresponsible behavior can be devastating, not only for the
impaired driver but for innocent bystanders and their loved ones.
In my own experience, a close friend of mine lost her father in a drunk driving accident. It was
a heart-wrenching experience for her and her family, one that they will never fully recover from.
Their lives were forever changed by the reckless actions of someone who chose to get behind the
wheel while under the influence.
The impact of drunk driving extends far beyond the immediate aftermath of an accident. Injuries
sustained in accidents can have lifelong effects, leaving individuals with chronic pain, disabilities,
and mental health issues such as PTSD. Families may face significant financial burdens, lost
income, and emotional trauma. It is important to remember that these consequences are entirely
preventable.
We should care about drunk driving because it is a completely preventable problem that
continues to result in devastating consequences. It is not only the responsibility of those who
choose to drink and drive, but it is also the responsibility of everyone in society to speak out against
it and take action to prevent it.
To bring awareness to drunk driving prevention in my community, I would take a multipronged approach. First, I would work with local organizations such as MADD and the local police
department to educate people about the dangers of drunk driving and the consequences that can
result. This could include distributing pamphlets and other educational materials, organizing
community events and workshops, and creating social media campaigns to raise awareness.
I would also work to create a culture of responsibility and accountability around drinking. This
could include encouraging individuals to make a plan before they go out drinking, designating a
sober driver, and ridesharing service if necessary. Additionally, I would advocate for stricter laws
and enforcement around drunk driving, including more frequent sobriety checkpoints and harsher
penalties for those who are caught driving under the influence.
Finally, I would work to create a sense of community and support for those who have been
affected by drunk driving including involving the organization of support groups for victims and
their families, creating a memorial or tribute to those who have lost their lives, and providing
resources to those who are struggling with addiction and alcoholism.
Drunk driving is a serious problem that affects everyone in society. It is important that we take
a proactive approach to prevent it by raising awareness, creating a culture of responsibility, and
advocating for stricter laws and enforcement. By working together, we can create a safer and more
responsible community for everyone.
Learn more about Johnson Attorneys Group scholarship opportunities on our website.
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