Dude, crazy accident. But that was entirely avoidable.
For a while I thought I was becoming an experienced driver. However, I learned that being experienced and gaining experience are two entirely different things. Over the past two driving seasons, I've been gaining experience which is the key to becoming an accomplished, seasoned driver. I'm far from that goal though.
I don't know your track day experience, racing history, autocross time, etc but if you don't have much of any of those, you are a novice. Period. Donuts in the parking lot and fish tailing around corners is not the seat time you need to become a great driver. It's THINKING you're a great driver to early that gets you in accidents like you posted above. Being humble goes a long way with this type of learning.
Once you've got the right mental attitude (ie you're a sponge with a lot more to absorb), then seat time during track days and autocross is the way to gain skills. I've found that a mix of solo driving and instructor ride alongs is best for me. Every instructor is different and some are better than others. But I'd guarantee that every instructor you go out with has at least one unique, helpful bit of information to add to your repertoire.
Learning to drive the limit is not for the streets. You can learn and practice skills on the street, but they're not driving 10/10ths. Street practice can include proper steering wheel grip and steering technique, heel-toe down shifting, rolling into and out of the brake and accelerator...you don't have to go fast or be reckless to practice these skills. Practicing this every day will make you better on track.
When you go on track, it's not a free for all of driving at the limit either. You should start with VDC on which gives additional safety. Focus on driving consistently and smoothly as this will make you fast. Focus on one corner and improve on it...brake deeper before turn in, carry more speed at turn in and through the turn, get on the accelerator a bit sooner each time. This progressiveness makes you improve. Once you have that corner, move to the next, and work your way around the track.
Most importantly, choose the corners and track sections where you'll begin to push the limit WISELY. Driving 10/10ths through a corner with an armco 10 feet from the track edges is asking for sadness. Pick a corner with a wide runoff, smooth surroundings and nothing to hit. This is your learning corner.
I keep a log of things to remember and tidbits I've learned so I can refresh my memory often. I find it extremely helpful.
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2013 Cadillac V-Wagon, RIP Z
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