You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
Write about the following topic:
In the recent years, there has been an increase in the number of people got killed on the road. Traffic designers blame drivers for driving too fast and drivers say the roads are bad.
Who is to be blamed for the accidents deaths caused on roads?
Who Is Responsible for the Increasing Number of Road Accident Deaths? (A High Band Essay Approach)
Before diving into the Band 9 sample essays for this challenging topic, let us give you a quick briefing to set the stage for writing a top-scoring response. If you’re eager to see the essays, feel free to scroll down and start reading them right away!
The essay question focuses on identifying the cause of rising road accident deaths—whether traffic designers or drivers are to blame. Writing a Band 9 essay for such a topic requires a clear and well-structured approach. Start by taking a definitive position or offering a balanced view, but remember to focus on one or two key arguments rather than scattering your ideas. For instance, instead of broadly discussing multiple reasons, delve deeply into either the role of poor road design or driver negligence. IELTS examiners value quality over quantity, so ensure your arguments are supported with clear, detailed explanations and relevant examples. Examples can be hypothetical or based on real-life experiences, as long as they align with the discussion. Don’t forget to address the four critical scoring criteria: Task Achievement, Coherence and Cohesion, Lexical Resources, and Grammatical Range and Accuracy. These are essential for scoring high on your essay.
To boost your preparation, explore the comprehensive resources available on this website. Our expertly crafted eBooks, downloadable in PDF format, cover everything you need to know to excel in IELTS Writing. These include detailed strategies, step-by-step examples, and practice questions from recent exams. For tailored feedback, try our personalized essay correction service, where an experienced IELTS examiner provides detailed critiques within 24 hours. These resources are designed to help you achieve your desired band score and confidently tackle any essay topic.
Sample Essay 1
In recent years, the alarming increase in the number of people got killed on the road has sparked debates about the root causes of these accidents. While traffic designers blame drivers for excessive speeding, drivers argue that poor road conditions are the main culprit. This essay argues that both factors play significant roles, with driver negligence being the primary issue. The following paragraphs will examine how reckless driving and inadequate infrastructure contribute to this pressing problem.
One major factor contributing to the rise in road accident deaths is reckless driving behavior. Many drivers fail to adhere to speed limits, engage in distracted driving, or drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs. These actions drastically reduce reaction times and increase the likelihood of fatal collisions. For instance, a report from the World Health Organization revealed that speeding alone is responsible for a significant proportion of global road fatalities. Moreover, drivers often disregard basic traffic rules, such as maintaining safe distances or yielding the right of way, leading to preventable accidents. While road infrastructure does influence safety, even well-designed roads cannot compensate for human recklessness. This highlights the importance of responsible driving as a key measure to reduce fatalities.
However, inadequate road design and maintenance also contribute significantly to the increase in the number of people got killed on the road. Poorly constructed roads with sharp turns, potholes, and insufficient lighting create hazardous conditions for drivers. For example, roads without proper signage or lane markings can confuse drivers, increasing the risk of accidents. Additionally, a lack of pedestrian crossings and barriers exposes vulnerable road users to harm. In many developing countries, urban areas suffer from congestion due to inadequate infrastructure, while rural areas often lack proper road maintenance altogether. Although drivers must exercise caution, governments and urban planners must also prioritize creating safer roads to minimize accident risks.
In conclusion, the increase in road accident deaths results from a combination of driver negligence and poor road conditions. While reckless driving remains the primary cause, addressing infrastructure deficiencies is equally critical. By understanding these contributing factors, we can better appreciate the shared responsibility for improving road safety.
Achieve your dream score with our detailed IELTS eBooks - your complete guide!
Get our comprehensive IELTS Essay Correction Service from a real examiner!
Sample Essay 2
The increase in the number of people got killed on the road has become a critical global issue, sparking heated debates about accountability. While traffic designers point to the irresponsible behavior of drivers, drivers blame substandard road conditions. This essay argues that a lack of effective traffic law enforcement and growing urban congestion are primary contributors to this issue. These factors will be critically examined in the following paragraphs.
A lack of stringent traffic law enforcement significantly exacerbates the problem of road accidents. When traffic rules are inconsistently applied or poorly monitored, drivers are less likely to adhere to safety protocols such as observing speed limits or avoiding distractions. For example, in many regions, traffic violations like running red lights or using mobile phones while driving often go unpunished. This creates a culture of impunity, where drivers feel emboldened to flout regulations without fear of consequences. Furthermore, the absence of regular vehicle inspections can result in unsafe cars being allowed on the roads, contributing to fatal incidents. While education and awareness campaigns may encourage better driving practices, they are insufficient without strict and visible law enforcement measures. Thus, the weak implementation of traffic laws directly correlates with the increase in road accident deaths.
The rising levels of urban congestion also contribute significantly to the increase in the number of people got killed on the road. Overcrowded cities with poorly managed traffic systems lead to chaotic driving conditions, increasing the likelihood of accidents. For instance, during peak hours, aggressive lane-changing and tailgating become common as drivers try to navigate congested streets. Additionally, many cities lack adequate infrastructure to manage the growing number of vehicles, such as efficient public transport systems or designated pedestrian zones. This forces more people onto already overcrowded roads, further heightening the risk of collisions. The problem is particularly severe in rapidly urbanizing areas, where infrastructure development often lags behind population growth. This underscores the profound impact of urban congestion on road safety.
In conclusion, the rise in road accident deaths can be attributed to the lack of rigorous traffic law enforcement and the challenges posed by urban congestion. These factors not only highlight systemic issues in traffic management but also underscore the need for collective accountability in addressing road safety concerns.
Achieve your dream score with our detailed IELTS eBooks - your complete guide!