When A Sudden Change of Mind Could Also Be The Last One

Sudden Course Change in Heavy Traffic Causes Deadly Accidents in Louisiana

How often have we read the news of a devastating crash in Louisiana caused by a driver who, on a whim, decides to dart for the exit, turn left, change lanes, stop, make a U-turn or, even back up hundred yards?

Impulsive changes of mind are deadly when you are in rapidly moving traffic. The only reason why motor vehicles can ride at high speed so close to each other without crashing is because everyone moves in the same direction, at the same speed, in the same lane, as if linked to the other vehicles by invisible ties.

Changing the game without warning, the erratic driver brings on immediate chaos and destruction. Everyone knows this and agrees that changing lanes, turning or stopping needs to be signaled well in advance and done carefully.

The danger, however, lies in the impulsiveness of drivers, who react when something new suddenly comes up. A squirrel crosses the road? Just missed Exit 12? The left lane is much faster? Forgot your phone at home? Lafayette is left, not right? All this or any other sudden thoughts can make some drivers change course with a total disregard of other vehicles.

Louisiana traffic laws tell us no driver may make a right or left turn without giving signal continuously during no less than the last 100 feet traveled before turning. Furthermore, no person shall turn a vehicle at an intersection unless the vehicle is in proper position upon the roadway.

What this really boils down to is that drivers need to be in control of their impulses, and react calmly to a new situation. You missed the exit? Take the next one and you will get there with five minutes delay. This is a lot better than bringing on a five-vehicle pileup.