Is it Bad to Almost Run Over a Pedestrian?

Driving a car can be a dangerous activity, particularly when pedestrians are involved. The question of whether it's bad to almost run over a pedestrian is a serious one, given the potential for severe consequences. In many cases, the answer is yes, but it depends on context and intent.

A Near Miss as a Learning Opportunity

A near miss, often cited in other contexts as something that only matters in horseshoes and hand grenades, can serve as an invaluable lesson. If you almost hit a pedestrian, it is an immediate indication that you were not paying sufficient attention to your surroundings. This type of incident can occur for various reasons, such as distracted driving, fatigue, or a pedestrian suddenly stepping into the road. It's important to learn from these experiences and take steps to prevent such incidents from happening again.

Responsibility and Awareness

Almost hitting a pedestrian shouldn't be considered just a minor mistake. It underscores the critical responsibility drivers have to maintain awareness of their surroundings at all times. Pedestrians can be found on sidewalks, crosswalks, and even on roads without sidewalks. Drivers should be alert to the presence of any oncoming pedestrians, and their focus must be swiveling and adjusting constantly to potential hazards. This includes not only human pedestrians but also animals and signs that may indicate the presence of pedestrians.

Driving is a Privilege, Not a Right

It is crucial to understand that driving a car is not a right but a privilege. Just as carrying or using a firearm requires a license, drivers must undergo training and demonstrate proficiency in the safe operation of their vehicles. The privilege of driving comes with the responsibility to exercise extreme caution and awareness, especially when pedestrians are involved.

Legal and Ethical Considerations

Legally and ethically, nearly hitting a pedestrian can lead to serious consequences. If a driver almost hits a pedestrian, they are likely to face legal action, such as insurance claims, fines, and even criminal charges if it affects the safety of the pedestrian. Ethically, it reflects poorly on the driver's car driver's attentiveness and respect for others' lives.

Car as a Weapon: A Dangerous Perspective

Expanding the analogy, consider the analogy of using a car to almost shoot a person. A 0.44 Magnum bullet, while lethal, has a force similar to that of a car traveling at 20 km/h (13 mph). Similarly, a large SUV at 130 km/h (80 mph) has the energy equivalent of an 88 mm anti-tank round at muzzle velocity. This shows that merely coming close to hitting a pedestrian can be just as dangerous as shooting them. It's a serious reminder of the immense power and responsibility drivers bear.

Conclusion

Almost hitting a pedestrian is a serious incident that highlights the importance of driver awareness and responsibility. It serves as a critical reminder that driving is not just about the vehicle but the lives it potentially endangers. To maintain safety, drivers must be vigilant, cautious, and always consider the surrounding people and environment. Safety in driving must be the ultimate priority to prevent near misses and real accidents.