Dear Driver,

You have been putting me in a tough situation, so I think it's time we talk. Your recklessness, carelessness, and disengagement have been a big problem for me, and I don't know what to do. Whether I'm in my neighborhood or on a big street, you keep getting in my way and I don't feel safe. I need you to change.

The other day, I had a dentist appointment. If it wasn't the terrible Los Angeles traffic that made the drive miserable, or the radio's terrible playlist, it was you and your inability to ignore your phone. On the day of my dentist appointment I had to honk because you weren't going the speed limit, pass you because you were driving in and out of lanes, and change my position on the freeway because you were moving in all sorts of unsafe directions. I felt afraid. You are making it really hard for me.

I understand that your flashing iPhone is distracting and seems almost impossible to ignore. I will admit that when my phone is blinking, or I hear it buzzing, I am tempted to grab it -- even if I am in my car. And yes, I often succumb to the temptation and pick up the phone. But I need to stop, and so do you.

I am asking you to remember that texting while driving is illegal. But I'm writing you to hopefully emphasize that it's dangerous and a concern of mine. I just got back from college two weeks ago, and I have already driven past you six times and seen your eyes glance down with one hand on the steering wheel and the other in your lap. I know what you are doing, and I don't want to be near you. I don't want to worry about you, and I shouldn't have to.

Did you know that what you are doing is comparable to driving under the influence? Did you know that the choice you make often has worse consequences than drunk driving? Did you know that 3,000 teens -- kids just like me -- die each year because of you?

Trust me, I get it. It's hard to not pick up the text and reply immediately. We feel like we are doing something wrong or missing out if we aren't available 24/7. It's difficult to avoid your friend that wants to grab sushi later, or your dad that keeps reminding you to pick up your brother, but those messages and requests and wants are minuscule if you look at the big picture and the potential consequences.

Driver, you have the ability to help mend some of the problem. I am asking you to try for me, and for you, because what you are doing just isn't fair or safe. And, frankly, it's illegal.

Thanks,

Sadie