I recently had a chance, unexpectedly, to ride in the front of a rescue -- Delta Ambulance -- out of Augusta. My mom had an accident on Route 3 in Palermo and was taken to Central Maine Medical Center in Lewiston.

I was absolutely amazed and appalled at the number of drivers on the road who do not pull over for emergency vehicles that have their lights on and horn blaring.

Some drivers apparently did not have a clue that this was an emergency vehicle trying to get a trauma patient to the hospital.

Some were on the cell phone, listening to music, smoking, some were talking to a passenger, some were because of age.

Whatever the reason, people (male and female) need to remember the basics --pull to the right and stop when you see lights and sirens.

How many lives could be saved if ambulance crews could get to their destinations quicker? Should drivers have a refresher course after a certain age? Should there be laws banning using cell phones and smoking while driving? Eye exams more often? Drivers need to pay more attention to their surroundings.

Thank-you, Gene and Heather of Delta Ambulance of Augusta, for your care and support.

Tammy Beaudry

Windsor