And there is nothing like a near accident to make you feel really alive.
Stan, I would also add:
* Learn car control techniques.
* Understand how midengined cars behave on corners. Be careful of panic braking or lifting in the corners. Watch out for things that will change the grip on the rear tires. A puddle. Leaves or gravel. A dip in the pavement.
* Keep your tires properly inflated and in good shape.
* Remove distractions in the cabin. Things can happen very quickly.
* Stay alert. If you are tired, pull over and rest.
* Stay away from the passenger side of cars, specially any higher ones. They can not see you below the door line. For the same reason, be careful about passing on the right if you have to do this. Give yourself an out.
* Watch the road for debris and potholes. The bad news is hitting a piece of debris on the road can be very bad in the Elise. The good news is that you are nimble enough to miss it.