Writing Task
Some people think that the best way to improve road safety is to make drivers retake driving test every year. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion?
Task Analysis
This question is a common AD-type question that has appeared frequently in computer tests over the past three years. It asks whether making drivers retake their driving test annually is the best way to improve road safety. To fully address the sub-tasks, we need to first clearly state our position—whether we agree or disagree with the proposal—and then provide evidence to support it. In this case, we disagree with the idea that annual retesting is the best way to improve road safety. A gentle reminder here: for questions that claim something is the “best” or “only” way to achieve a goal, it is often easier to refute the claim, making disagreement a simpler stance to argue.
In terms of logic, the essay will begin by explaining why annual retesting might not be a good option, highlighting issues such as inefficacy, cost, and time. Following that, the essay will propose alternative approaches that could be more effective in enhancing road safety, such as public education on safe driving techniques and stronger law enforcement.
We will use a three-paragraph body format for this essay. The first paragraph will refute the claim and provide reasons, and the next two paragraphs will explore alternatives, emphasizing that the approach suggested in the question is not the most effective.
Writing Sample
It is believed by some that the best way to increase road safety is to mandate that drivers retake a driving test annually. Though this approach might seem reasonable, I disagree with it and think that other strategies, such as stricter enforcement and better education, would work better.
The time and financial costs involved are two reasons why annual driving tests might not be the best option for action. Retesting millions of drivers each year would require a large amount of resources from both governments and drivers. For drivers, many of whom have developed safe driving habits over the years, this could result in logistical difficulties and unnecessary stress. Plus, passing a driving test does not guarantee that a person will always drive safely under regular situations.
In comparison to concentrating on repeated testing, enhancing law enforcement might be a more effective strategy to improve road safety. Tougher punishments for moving violations, such as speeding or careless driving, would make people pay more attention to the law. For instance, speed cameras, higher fines, and stricter laws against drunk driving have all been successful in reducing traffic accidents in many countries. These measures specifically target risky behaviours, which often acts as the primary reason for accidents.
Emphasizing driver education and public awareness is another practical solution. Frequent reminders of traffic laws and campaigns emphasising the value of safe driving may be equally as successful as retesting. Through educational programs, drivers could be reminded of the risks associated with speeding, texting and driving, and other dangerous behaviours. In addition to being less expensive, this method promotes long-term safe driving practices.
In a nutshell, retaking driving tests annually may appear like a simple solution to increase road safety, but it is not the most efficient or practical approach. It is probable that road safety would improve more effectively and sustainably if law enforcement were strengthened and public education was encouraged.
