By Al Mollo
Arizona Daily Wildcat
September 10, 1997

The real lesson learned from Diana's death

Editor:

As Britain and the world mourn the death of Princess Diana, students are given a powerful reminder of some of the most important lessons of life.

Initial reports show that Henri Paul, the driver of the vehicle transporting Diana, was intoxicated. He was drunk. Paul's blood contained more than three times the amount of alcohol which is legally acceptable in France. This sad fact combined with the belief that the vehicle was traveling at speeds well over 100 mph leaves little doubt that this tragedy could have been prevented.

Although many are focusing their energy and anger on paparazzi photographers who were trailing the Princess of Wales through the ill-fated Paris tunnel, we must bring ourselves to accept the truth that the blame sadly lies within the four doors of the now demolished Mercedes Benz.

Each year, nearly 95,000 Americans die in alcohol related accidents, roughly the equivalent of the population of the city of Green Bay. Drunk driving does kill. Unfortunately, we often only think of the victims when they happen to be our brother, our mother, our friend, our Princess.

The lesson here to be learned is a simple one. It is not about dare-devil photographers who race on motorcycles, water craft and helicopters in order to snap a million-dollar shot. It is a lesson which reminds us of those familiar words we heard time and again. Words we hear every time we asked to borrow the car. Every time we would leave to go to a party. You remember, don't you?

"If you're going to drink, don't drive." "Drive slowly." "Remember to wear your seat belt." These are not lessons we need to hear debated on Larry King Live. We grew up with them in our own homes.

Diana's death brings these important reminders of responsibility to life. Let us try to make something positive result from it and in the process do justice to the memory of the Princess. So instead of sobbing in our hands or cursing the paparazzi, let's try something else.

The next time you are partying at a bar or club and stagger out to your car, then think of her. Your passing the keys or calling for a ride will be in itself a greater way to honor the spirit of Diana than any legislation regulating photographers or a foundation in her name ever will.

You may just save your life. Or possibly someone else's­ someone's brother, someone's mother, someone's friend, someone's princess.

Al Mollo

Journalism/political science junior