Can't forgive myself.

[davide.h 26]

I finally told my parents recently about an incident several years ago I am torn with guilt over and can't forgive myself for. While enjoying a weekend drive, I rounded a slight corner where an ambulance was leaving a station. I saw it in my periphery but for whatever reason, did not see or hear sirens. It blew at me as I passed and I realized what I'd done. It wasn't intentional but it haunts me to this day. I've considered speaking to the police, telling them what happened. I'd likely be punished but at this point that would be better than living with this. I'm just terrified of years in jail. My parents told me not to worry but I'd expect them to say that. What should I do??

[MARC 431]

The same thing has happened to me and the best thing I can 

say to you is to forget about it as it is no big deal as it was just an honest mistake. 

[davide.h 26]

It was a mistake but it could have harmed another person. I can't let go of that. I feel like anything bad that happens to me I deserve.

[Lucid 41]

I'm not trying to diminish what you are going through but if this is your biggest incident.....you are doing fantastic. I get that you made a mistake but it is just that an honest mistake. Punishing yourself for this is not the right way imo

[MARC 431]

You did not harm anyone and what you did was unintentional, therefore, it makes no sense to punish yourself for nothing, You are doing yourself more harm than good and It is like the old saying, beating a dead horse.

[Pythonian 29]

Stop beating yourself up over this.  It clearly made you aware of this situation so it won't happen again and that's the best any of us can do.  Simple mistake, nobody was harmed, and you learned a lesson.  Best wishes.

[YYZ 2]

This is a no-brainer: no one was hurt, your minor obstruction had zero outcome on the destination of that ambulance or the care of their patient, and you didn't get a ticket. 

Chill. 

[davide.h 26]

I'm an anxious driver in general. I always tense up. Cyclists especially make me nervous. I worry often about hitting something or someone and not remembering doing it. I can't really justify that. I know it's irrational. But I still think it.

[MARC 431]

I have been in 2 head on collisions. One the person crossed the median and hit me head on and the other I lost control of my car and went onto a grassy median and hit a truck head on at high speed which was parked illegally in a turn around area. I have also been rear ended by someone at a high rate of speed, possibly 50mph plus. Luckily in all 3 accidents, I was not hurt. I used to sometimes worry about hitting something. Now I am more worried about someone hitting me at times.

[davide.h 26]

That post is nearly 3 years old. Please don't dredge up past causes of stress. I have enough in the present.