My Fellow Drivers

I know that driver's education classes are not what they should be, and I realize that for many of you it has been eons since you last stepped foot into a classroom to receive instruction about driving. I do not, however, think it is too late for any of you to learn. Please take the following advice for what it is worth, given the fact that I am the same person who was forced to collide with a stationery concrete barrier only a few short weeks ago.

I would like to talk to you today about driving in the rain. Let's say, hypothetically of course, that it is raining really hard outside when you have to leave for work in the morning. What do you do? Well, you go about your normal routine and get into your car for the morning commute. If this was your response, you would be wrong. You should probably allow at least an extra ten minutes to ensure safe travels to your place of employment.

So once you get on the road, what do you do? Do you A) Go 80-90 mph on the interstate like the speed racer you were born to be, B) Drive 40 because you are afraid of water, or C) slow down a bit and keep a close eye on those around you.

Well, this morning I chose C. I chose to be safe. I know it does not fit with more normal behavior, but I thought what the hell. Let's just go with it . . . see where it goes. So as I am being cautious in the nearly blinding rainstorm this morning I witness those who chose the other two options. What a joy. People hydroplaning near me, others backing up lanes of traffic. Oh how I love how people react to rain.

Lessons of the day: Be careful but do not drive like a snail. Be careful but do not speed even if you are late. Even if you are late it is not putting yours and everyone around you in danger. Think about the baby who is likely sleeping in the back of the mommy's car right next to you. And yes, that was a hopelessly low plea to human emotions. I hope it worked.