This morning we were woken by a collection agency that wants $2,000 from us immediately.

Back in November 2005,I wrecked my little beat-up Toyota in a traffic pile-up caused by a driver in the wrong lane. The car was totaled, towed to a lot, and I signed the paperwork agreeing to give the title to the lot owner if I didn't return to pick it up in 30 days.

I never went back for it, the title passed into the lot owner's hands. We were notified of the title transfer. All was fine.

I think I said goodbye to my trusty 1990 Toyota Tercel today.

Driving to work this morning under a drizzly, overcast sky, someone jumped the curb in the median and wound up in my lane. The SUV ahead of me came to a quick stop and I hydroplaned right into her.

It looks like it was the kiss of death for my fuel-efficient, portable fortress of solitude. The hood is accordioned, the radiator flattened up against the motor block, internal organs—uh, parts—are all moved around. Fluids leaked.

Man, 255,000 miles and counting. At least it died a noble death, shielding me from all harm.

Meanwhile, I await the police report, a phone call from my insurance adjustor, and a possible court date. (Otherwise, I’d share more details.)

If it occurs to you, please pray that I find another inexpensive, highly fuel-efficient replacement that will comfortably seat a man