WATERTOWN, SD (KELO) — Over the years, both local and federal public safety authorities have enacted regulations and launched advertising campaigns urging individuals to refrain from using their phones while driving. Despite the persistent warnings about the perils of distracted driving, this dangerous behavior continues to be a widespread issue, resulting in the loss of thousands of American lives annually.
A Waubay family is now leveraging their personal tragedy to offer young drivers a glimpse beyond mere statistics.
Renee Olson fondly recalls the moment she first laid eyes on her future husband at a bar in Watertown. “That was our engagement; he had a really good mullet,” she reminisced with a chuckle. What started as a serendipitous encounter blossomed into a lifelong love story for Renee and Ron Olson. “I saw him across the dance floor and thought he was so cute,” Renee shared. Their union in 1986 marked the beginning of a journey filled with shared moments on their farm in Waubay, where they raised their five children. Renee reflected on their life together, emphasizing the joy of tackling every aspect of life as a team, from work and play to faith and parenting.
Tragedy struck on January 9, 2020, during their routine drive to a church gathering in Watertown. A devastating head-on collision left Ron trapped in the wreckage, while Renee, conscious throughout the ordeal, frantically searched for him amidst the chaos. Despite the heroic efforts of emergency responders, Ron succumbed to the crash, leaving Renee with life-threatening injuries and profound emotional scars.
The aftermath of the accident was harrowing for Renee, as she grappled with severe physical trauma and the profound loss of her beloved partner. The collision, caused by a young driver’s reckless phone usage, left an irreparable void in Renee’s life. Despite enduring extensive injuries, Renee’s deepest pain stemmed from the absence of her soulmate.
Renee’s story serves as a poignant reminder of the catastrophic consequences of distracted driving. Through her advocacy and speaking engagements, she endeavors to impart this crucial message to young drivers, urging them to prioritize safety over distractions. By sharing her personal journey of loss, resilience, and forgiveness, Renee aims to prevent similar tragedies and inspire positive change in attitudes towards responsible driving behavior.
As Renee continues to advocate for safer driving practices, she emphasizes the importance of forgiveness in her healing process. Through her unwavering faith and the support of her community, Renee has found the strength to transform her anguish into a beacon of hope for others.
The powerful impact of Renee’s advocacy is evident in the community’s response to the photo message on her tailgate—a tangible reminder of the devastating consequences of distracted driving. Her ultimate goal is simple yet profound: to prevent future tragedies by encouraging individuals to prioritize safety on the road and resist the temptation of using their phones while driving.