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Feels Safe Quote by Tom Vanderbilt

“There is a simple mantra you can carry about you in traffic: When a situation feels dangerous to you, it's probably more safe than you know; when a situation feels safe, that is precisely when you should feel on guard. Most crashes, after all, happen on dry roads, on clear, sunny days, to sober…” quote by Tom Vanderbilt
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““There is a simple mantra you can carry about you in traffic: When a situation feels dangerous to you, it's probably more safe than you know; when a situation feels safe, that is precisely when you should feel on guard. Most crashes, after all, happen on dry roads, on clear, sunny days, to sober drivers.””

Tom Vanderbilt

About This Quote

Source Book: Traffic: Why We Drive the Way We Do, 2008

Safety perception is often opposite to actual risk; complacency in calm conditions can be more dangerous than alertness in apparent danger.

In simple terms: Safe feeling can be risky; danger feeling can be safe.

Key Takeaway

Stay vigilant even when conditions seem safe.

Themes

safety perception vigilance

Mood

cautious thoughtful

Type

advice observational

When to use this quote

  • driving
  • commuting
  • weather conditions
  • road safety

Key Concepts

risk assessment human bias

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you assess risk in everyday situations?
  • What habits keep you alert in safe settings?
A Different Perspective

Overconfidence in familiar environments can lead to accidents.

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