A simple act can save lives

I would like to add my 2 cents’ worth to the “Things people should learn on Day One in driver’s ed” soapbox.

What has moved me is seeing Michael Duane Wallace’s obituary in The Herald. Maybe I’m moved to write because my best bud George died suddenly a month ago, or that what happened to Michael could very easily have happened to my brother, who rides a Harley.

The article about the crash/collision/wreck (please note that I did not use the word accident) stated that Michael was killed when he collided with a car that was waiting to make a left turn and was struck from behind and pushed into Michael’s lane. I wonder whether this was the result of the stopped car already having the wheels turned to the left. We are taught, at least I was 40 years ago, that you never turn your wheels while waiting for traffic until it is safe to proceed because if you are struck from behind you will be pushed into oncoming traffic.

I have no idea if this was the case in this crash so my apologies to all involved if it’s not. I bear no ill to those involved but pray for their peace in this time of tragedy as I know no one ever meant for this to happen.

When you are stopped to make a turn, please keep your wheels pointed straight until it is safe to proceed and, just maybe, a life will be spared.

Robert C. Hankins

Stanwood