Gemstone,
you know what? your fears aren't rediculous! they are totally understandable. I think it's a good idea that you take what time you need until you're comfortable.

I rolled a car many years ago when I was in college - and was thankfully uninjured. But my brother broke his neck four years prior (and is a quadraplegic) in a car accident...I think of him all the time.

Sweet Sunshine,
not an easy choice for anyone I presume. I'm scared of driving, and I'm scared of flying (my parents died in an airplane crash when I was a kid)....ugh ugh ugh...so I live in fear no matter what!

Gemstone,
are there areas you can drive in that progress to the highway? areas to drive and build your confidence?