And another point about your post that wasnt thought out too well, yes you should fear cars, would you stand in front of one? I know I almost poop myself during the times there is a near accident.. Whats one of the first lessons you learn from your parents when you walk? "look both ways before crossing the road"...
And alcohol doesnt have much better of a track record... Lets see you can die driving on it, die from alcohol poisoning, hell there was a guy here last year who froze to death on his front poarch from passing out because he was drunk....
Also 14 years ago did you even keep reptiles? 14 years ago how into the "reptile world" were you? Back then word didnt travel far or fast because there wasnt internet everywhere. I dont care how close to AZ you live, just because you didnt hear about it doesnt mean it didnt happen..