Good advice -- Wayne County teens: You won't think it will happen to you, but it could

This message is for any Wayne County teen who gets behind the wheel of a car.

You have heard the tragic stories of how a young person has lost his or her life or taken someone else's just because of a moment, a simple mistake, a bad decision.

Sometimes those bad decisions involve alcohol or other illegal activity. And we are sure you know how dangerous and stupid it is to take a chance like that -- either as a driver or as a passenger. That is the kind of mistake that could ruin your life. Trust us, it is not worth it.

But there are other dangers, too.

Driving a car is a big responsibility. It is not a time to jam or giggle with your friends or to take your eyes off the road or hands off the wheel -- even for a second. It is not a time to drag race, to show off your new rims or to text a piece of gossip to your best friend.

Driving is a privilege allowed adults -- and if you want to be considered one, you have to take it seriously and to realize just how quickly a mistake can result in a serious accident or injury.

Sunday night, three Wake County teens died on their way home from church, and one is in critical condition in the hospital.

The driver lost control of the car and hit a tree -- and in a moment, three lives were lost.

Don't think something like that could not happen to you. Don't take a risk with your future or your life.

It is worth the effort and the time to drive carefully and to follow the rules. Trust us.

Published in Editorials on June 6, 2011 10:42 AM