Dear Driver,

One of the first things I learned when I moved here to Portland, Maine three years ago is the importance of cleaning off the ice and snow from the top of a vehicle before driving it.

Admittedly, I have been tempted to skip this tedious, yet important task when I am in a hurry. However, I am a rule-follower; so I take the time to do it regardless of how I feel or how much time I have.

Now, because of you, I can truly understand the significance and dire need for Jessica's Law in Maine, which was put into effect in New Hampshire in 1999 when young Jessica Smith was killed by ice that hit her parents' car. Perhaps you should become familiar with this statute. Hopefully, the state of Maine will get its act together and pass this law.

I was driving the car behind you on I-295, on my way to the mall, when a gigantic block of snowy ice slid off the top of your SUV and went flying into my windshield. You were either too lazy, in a hurry, or just didn't care, when you made the decision not to clean off your vehicle. I am lucky that I was not following you too closely; otherwise, I might have gotten into an accident and injured, or worse, been killed by your willful disregard for your life and the lives of others.

If only I had a GoPro; then, I would have the incident recorded.

I doubt you even noticed what happened… or maybe you did and shrugged it off and then went about your day. I spent the next hour on an emotional rollercoaster. Mostly, I was shaken up and angry.

Unfortunately, you probably will do this again. I don't think people like you learn valuable life or death lessons. I can only hope Maine passes Jessica's Law sooner rather than later.

I hope we don't meet on the road again.

Sincerely,

Nikki

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