Bridges!

Wow! As I'm sure you've all heard, a major freeway bridge in Minneapolis collapsed last night... about 3 miles from my house. It is a horrible tragedy and my heart goes out to anyone who was directly involved or knows someone who was.

That being said, I'm having my own problems with it (not to be selfish, but I know it is!) I was already terrified of bridges and I have to drive into downtown everyday on one about 1/2 mile down form where this one was. My fear that a bridge could collapse, came true last night. To make matters worse, traffic is so congested now (and will be for a LONG time) that the bridge I usually take is like a parking lot. The thought of being stuck in the middle of the bridge really freaks me out.

I'm just really worked up right now. I know this is a small-scale tragedy in comparison to various events over the last few years, but it just really disturbing to me on so many levels.

Anyways, just needed to vent I guess. Any others with bridge fears and/or those who have suggestions for calming methods when you're freaking out on a bridge?

I hate driving over bridges. I mentally plan how what I have to do to escape from the car if the bridge falls every single time I drive over a big bridge. Now I am wondering whether I should keep a life jacket in the car. In fact, I was wondering if I should strap on a lifejacket if I have to go over an especially big bridge. Jeesh. The next thing you know, I'll be wondering whether I can afford to charter a copter to fly me over. I got the fear bad.