Ford Escape serpentine belt?

I have a 2003 Ford Escape. The power steering went out and the car kept dying which I assumed was the battery, and then it just wouldn't do anything. The air conditioning also stopped working, if that's relevant to the belt. A friend lifted the hood and discovered the serpentine belt was completely melted and frayed. What is the worst case scenario on how much all of this would cost? I know it probably damaged other things.

How many miles should my brake pads last?

I have a 2014 Ford Escape. It only has 13000 miles but it sounds like the brakes are squeaking. I've towed a pop-up camper before (probably 500 total miles). Does towing wear out the brakes that dramatically?

Terrified of driving in rain?

Okay so last month I got in a really bad wreck when it was raining really hard and spun across the highway and was hit by a towing truck (ironic I know)
I was rushed to the hospital and had to be looked at for being concussed blah blah blah
I recently bought a 2004 Ford Escape, tires are only 4 months old and I'm still terrified of driving in the rain. My car feels like its going to fishtail or slide out at any moment and I can't tell if its me or my car. I had it looked at and she said they were fine but I still can't even drive when its sprinkling. I can barely drive when its perfect weather outside.
Not sure what to do because I work tomorrow morning and it will be raining.

Infiniti g20 2002 or Ford escape 2008?

I'm getting a used car and I have to decide between these two cars. I know they're very different but which one is safer and is better known for it being reliable? I want something that will not leave me hanging in the streets. Any other good or bad facts about these cars would be much anticipated.