February 2000

Front Left Wheel

Rear Left Wheel

This month, I'd like to say a heartfelt 'thanks' to whoever left a ladder laying in the
fast lane of I-285 eastbound about a half mile before the Ashford-Dunwoody exit.
That's right, running over that ladder and bending not one, but two rims -- which
immediately led to two very violent tire blowouts -- really made my day!  And I'd
also like to thank you on behalf of those motorists who were behind me and in the
adjacent lane (which is why I didn't swerve around the ladder), who were so certain
that I was going to lose control that when I glanced in my rear view mirror, I noticed
a nice thick cloud of smoke from their brakes.  Thankfully, I didn't lose control (which
would have resulted in a multi-car collision), but I'm sure my fellow motorists thank
you for the thrill of feeling their hearts skip a few beats nonetheless.  In fact, I'd like
to take this opportunity to salute all of those geniuses out there who have taken it
upon themselves to brighten up the driving experience by leaving debris in the road.
Ladders seem to be a favorite, although mattresses are a very close second.  I've
even seen sofas and the occasional chest of drawers on the road.  Yes, it takes
people of real character to recklessly endanger the lives others, and I stand up and
salute you -- with both my middle fingers.