First of all, my prayers to Governor John Corzine of New Jersey, who was in a serious auto accident in a serious car accident last week, leaving him with catastrophic injuries. I am sure our neighbors across the Hudson are feeling his pain.

A lot of attention is being paid to the fact that Governor Corzine wasn’t wearing his seat belt. This is a big issue because New Jersey runs a big public service campaign in all regional media, to urge drivers and front-seat passengers to buckle up. And New Jersey has a very good record — one of the highest percentage of seatbelt usage in the country.

Corzine has a long recovery ahead of him. But, when he is all better, he will undoubtedly have to face New Jerseyans and make a “teachable moment” out of his “do as I say, not as I do” policy. I recommend a series of PSAs, with taglines such as “I was stupid; be smart — Buckle Up!” or “My bad — don’t follow my example”

Other suggestions?