Unbelievable reasoning

Probably the most unbelievable reasoning surrounding a traffic accident is currently circulating on social media and is the talk, or perhaps the joke, of the town. The video shows a couple alighting from their vehicle because they were hit from behind. The driver of the car behind them, a woman, starts explaining the situation. I need to provide the untranslated version, as it is so unbelievable. “Luma kotse mo. Ako na nga ang atribido. Kahit ako makipag ano sayo wala ka namang pambayad.” “Naka stop. Kaya kita tinakbuhan naisip ko wala kang ano tapos wala naman kayong pambayad.” “Bago kotse ko.” The internet has now made her famous.

This woman has no idea that when you hit another vehicle from behind, it is automatically your fault. Whether you agree with that or not, it is what it is. To say that she left the scene of the accident because she figures the owner of the car, whom she hit, has no money to pay for her new car, because he drives an old car, smacks of social discrimination, as well as financial entitlement. Believing that one is entitled because of one’s perceived financial status is unbelievable. Her leaving the scene takes it a notch further. I’m sure she will have a hard time explaining that to her insurer.

It seems we hear of new incidents of road rage quite often nowadays. Is it the heat? Are drivers less careful nowadays? Are there too many cars on the road? Too many hotheads? I believe it is all of them. People tend to be in a hurry. And because there are too many cars, patience wears out fast. Bring in the heat, and you have the elements of a perfect storm. I am certain that in hindsight, no driver would want a repeat of road rage.

We would all do well to have a lot of patience when driving. I may not be behind the wheel, but I do see what goes on. The scourge of public utility drivers, as well as some motorcycle riders, would make one’s blood boil. We should take a deep breath, firmly closing our eyes, and think of the safety and comfort of our homes. Some drivers will test our patience, and even our common sense --nothing we can do about that. The secret is to be in control of your emotions. I have friends who remain cool during times of crisis. My father was one of them. Probably the most level and cool-headed man I have ever known. We still have about two months of this blistering heat, so keeping cool is of the utmost importance. Especially for those driving new, expensive cars.