There are some uneventful days on Chilton County’s roads. These are the days we all like to see. Then, there are days when everything goes wrong. One wreck after another keeps our emergency responders busy. Considering this, we should all ask ourselves what we can do to make our roads safer.

No matter how long you have been driving, there is always room for improvement. There is always something you can do — or not do — to improve safety for yourself and others.

The Golden Rule is a good rule for the road. Simply treat others the way you want to be treated. You probably get angry when other drivers cut you off, pass your vehicle in no-passing zones or commit other reckless acts. Always make it a point to not be that kind of driver.

Even though it seems like a tired issue, speeding is something most of us can work on. This is a major problem in residential areas. Some roads are popular shortcuts, and on these roads people speed through to get where they are going faster without any regard for the safety of residents.

Unfortunately, most people will not pick up this editorial and say, “Hmmm, that makes sense. I should slow down and be more careful.”

Increased patrols, traffic signs and signals, and other traffic control devices such as speed bumps can help to some extent. But a large part of the solution rests with drivers themselves.

While not all young drivers are careless, parents should stress road safety to their teenagers. Perhaps also the state should have stricter requirements for obtaining a driver’s license.

Reducing distractions is important. Don’t talk on your cell phone or even press a button until your vehicle comes to a complete stop. It’s just common sense that the more things you have competing for your attention, the less your reaction time will be.

Also, try not to drive when you are angry, unless it’s unavoidable.

Please drive safely.