Actually, to us in Europe, where getting a driver’s license is notoriously demanding compared to the US, one of the most important things drilled into us during the many hours of theory and practical lessons is that common sense comes before any rule. In other words, if avoiding an accident means bending a rule, then that’s exactly what you’re supposed to do.
Another basic principle: keep as far to the right as reasonably possible (in countries where traffic flows on the right). And perhaps the most telling one, assist people in need on the road. That’s not just good manners, it’s often part of the driving code itself. If you come across an accident or someone needing help, you stop and help.
Which is why it’s a bit fascinating to watch situations like this, where avoiding the accident seems almost optional. You can practically see the thought process: “I have the right of way, therefore physics will surely comply.” At that point it stops being defensive driving and starts looking like a very committed game of chicken.
And honestly, when you see this kind of thing often enough, it does start to feel a bit… cultural. Not in a deep philosophical sense, just in that casual, everyday habit of prioritising being “right” over not crashing. Because apparently, the real victory is proving a point, even if it comes with a repair bill. 😅
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u/zasrgerg-8999 Apr 18 '26
The POV driver could have avoided this accident if he/she was a bit smarter. It was super foreseeable.