Safety Or Slaughter? (1965)

Overview

This driver's education film is about the importance of driver behavior in preventing accidents. The narrator, Gordon Anderson of the Industrial Accident Prevention Associations of Ontario, points out that road accidents are a major cause of fatalities. The core problem lies with the driver, whose decision-making can be compromised by fatigue, alcohol, poor vision, and especially, "bad manners." Statistics and tragic real-life examples show that 81% of accidents are caused by driver errors, and 97% of accidents involve cars in good condition. The film advocates for a proactive approach to safety, urging drivers to follow simple rules of the road. It also suggests solutions like stiffer physical and mental tests for drivers, compulsory vehicle inspections, and use of safety belts. The biggest factor is a lack of courtesy. The film asks drivers to choose "safety or slaughter" by remembering their human limitations and treating other drivers with respect and good manners.