Choice & Consequence

Choice and consequence are some of the most powerful forces in our lives. As individuals, we all have the power to choose what we do in life and own the consequence of our decisions. To live a life of abundance and fulfillment, we must be aware of both choice and consequence and take charge of our decisions.

On the surface, it’s easy to think of choice as a voluntary decision between two or more options, and the consequence as the result of that choice. When diving deeper into these concepts, however, we begin to realise that choosing our actions and owning the consequences can be much more complicated. Even when we are aware of the consequences of our decisions, sometimes the choice isn’t clear, and we are forced to make a decision that may seem right in the moment but end up having long-term consequences.

Ultimately, the power of choice and consequence comes down to the fact that our lives are shaped by the decisions we make. Every choice we make will inevitably have some kind of consequence, so it’s important to be conscious of the decisions we make and accept responsibility for the outcomes. We must develop the mental and emotional strength to identify potential consequences and take ownership of the choices we make.

In many ways, choice and consequence are inseparable, and when they work together to create positive change, our lives are enriched. Every day, we are confronted with choices, both big and small, and depending on the decisions we make, the consequences will be positive or negative. To navigate life successfully, we must choose wisely and own the consequences of our choices in order to foster growth, progress, and self-development.

The power of choice and consequence is in our hands, and when we recognise this, we can live with greater self-awareness and gain a newfound understanding of our lives and our potential. By committing to conscious and mindful decisions and embracing their consequences, we can unlock a world of opportunity and gain the power to create the lives we truly desire.

When driving a vehicle, each choice made by the driver has consequences, both intended and unintended. The following are common examples of choices and consequences while driving.

Speeding – A Simple Yet Reckless Temptation

Speeding remains a leading cause of road fatalities across Australia. Often, drivers fail to understand or simply ignore the seriousness of exceeding speed limits. Exceeding speed limits can have dire consequences. It reduces your response time, increases the distance required for braking, and amplifies the severity of crashes. However, through choice of the driver, a poor decision to exceed the posted speed limit, can have severe consequences.

Overestimating your capabilities and underestimating the risk of crashing, can lead to irreversible, life-altering injuries or even death. There is an abundance of information and resources available to every driver on Australian roads highlighting the risks and consequences of speeding. However, the choice is ultimately yours.

Distractions – The Danger In Diversion

In today’s digital age, smartphones and other technological devices, have become near-ubiquitous, creating a significant temptation for drivers. Whether it is texting, making phone calls, or using navigation apps, each moment spent not focusing on the road can result in catastrophic outcomes. Engaging in distracting activities while driving, can result in consequences including loss of focus, impaired reaction time, and even the risk of causing a crash.

Even a momentary distraction is enough to lead to an accident. It is imperative that you prioritise your attention and avoid engaging in any form of distraction. The ripple effect of this poor choice can extend far beyond the individuals involved, impacting families, friends, and entire communities.

Making the deliberate choice to disconnect and prioritise safety over distractions, is essential for all drivers. Sure, the implementation of heavy penalties and on-going driver education, about the dangers of distracted driving, can help mitigate this growing problem. However, the choice is ultimately yours.

Safe Following Distance – Distance is Your Best Friend

Deciding to maintain a safe following distance behind the vehicle in front, can reduce the risk of rear-ending another vehicle, avoid sudden braking, and the ability to take evasive action in emergency situations. Travelling at an unsafe distance from the vehicle in front, can pose numerous dangers. These dangers include:

• Increased risk of crashes When you follow too closely, you reduce your reaction time and space for manoeuvering , increasing the chance of rear-end collisions if the vehicle in front suddenly brakes or encounters any obstacle or debris.
• Reduced visibility: Following too closely behind another vehicle, you limit your field of vision as you are focusing more on the vehicle in front of you rather than the overall environment and traffic situation. This can lead to missing important signs, signals, or hazards on the road around you.
• Lack of predictability: When you follow too close, it becomes difficult to anticipate sudden manoeuvres or lane changes from the vehicle in front.
• Limited braking distance: Following too closely reduces the distance between vehicles, leaving insufficient time to react and brake effectively. This can result in rear-end crashes as you may not be able to stop in time if the vehicle ahead slows down or stops suddenly.
• Chain reaction rear-enders: Not leaving a safe following distance in heavy traffic can create a domino effect, where a sudden brake from the lead vehicle causes a chain reaction of rear-end collisions. This not only puts you and the vehicle in front at risk but also endangers other drivers and passengers around you.
• Increased stress levels: Driving too close to the vehicle in front of you can create a stressful environment, leading to aggressive behaviour, road rage, and impulsive decision-making. This emotional state can further compromise your driving abilities and overall road safety.

Just like other causes of crashes, the implementation of heavier penalties and on-going driver education about the dangers of unsafe following distances, can help mitigate this common problem. However, the choice is ultimately yours to follow too close to the vehicle in front of you.

Drink/Drug Driving – An Unforgiving Mistake

Choosing to operate a vehicle under the influence of alcohol (or drugs) can result in significant consequences such as crashes causing damage to property, injuries, or even death. Losing your driver’s licence due to drink driving, can have severe consequences that go beyond the immediate inconvenience of not being able to drive. In addition to the legal ramifications, such as fines and possible incarceration, there are various personal, professional, and financial repercussions that you will face.

Firstly, losing your driver’s license can significantly impact your personal life. It restricts your freedom and independence, making basic tasks like grocery shopping or attending social events more challenging. This loss of mobility can also strain relationships, as people may become reliant on others for transportation.

Professionally, the consequences can be equally severe. Many job positions require a valid driver’s license and losing it can result in unemployment or career setbacks. Even jobs not directly related to driving can be affected, as a suspended or disqualified licence may indicate a lack of responsibility and reliability to potential employers.

Financially, the consequences of losing a licence due to drink or drug driving, can be substantial. Apart from paying hefty fines, you may also face increased insurance costs when you are eligible to drive again. Additional expenses can arise from alternative transportation arrangements, such as bus or taxi fares, which can quickly add up and strain your budget.

The social stigma associated with drink driving can have long-lasting consequences. Friends, family, and acquaintances may view you differently, causing strained relationships and a loss of trust. Such reputational damage can also impact future opportunities and social connections. Drink or drug driving is a well-known offence that carries significant consequences, however, there are drivers all over the nation, that are charged daily.

This is not through the lack of information or driver education surrounding the consequences of drink driving. Drivers are arrested and charged through their own actions and their own choice to operate a vehicle whilst under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol.

As human beings, we possess an intriguing ability that sets us apart from other species. The power to discern right from wrong. But what factors contribute to our ability to discern between right and wrong choices? Knowing right from wrong signifies an individual’s moral compass, a guide that directs their actions and shapes their character. you will understand that no matter how serious the action, it just about always comes down to the choice of the driver. What’s right and what’s wrong. Choice and consequence. Only you can decide!

Learn Drive Survive Safer Drivers Course

The Learn Drive Survive® Safer Drivers Course is designed to equip learners with the necessary knowledge and skills to make safe decisions, employ low-risk driving strategies, and eliminate distractions behind the wheel. One of the key focuses of the Safer Drivers Course with Learn Drive Survive® is to teach you how to recognise and eliminate distractions effectively. By understanding the risks associated with internal and external influences while driving, you’ll be able to make a conscious effort to prioritise safety and minimise distractions.

The course will provide you with practical tips and techniques to stay focused on the road, ensuring that your attention is where it should be – on driving. Upon completion of the Safer Drivers Course, you will not only be equipped with the knowledge and skills to make safe decisions, employ low-risk driving strategies, and remove distractions, but you will also receive 20 hours in your logbook.

So why wait? Enrol in the Safer Drivers Course with Learn Drive Survive® today and embark on a journey to become a safer and more responsible driver. Make a commitment to become a safer driver and take control of your journey on the road. Drive safe and drive smart, with Learn Drive Survive®.