To Call or Not to Call

Winter road in northern British Columbia.Image via Wikipedia

I took it slow on my way to work this morning. The roads were a bit slippery and I didn’t want to go for a slide.

I kept both hands on the steering wheel and checked my mirrors frequently. 
It took me a little longer to get to school but since I always give myself extra time in the morning, I didn’t have to worry about being late. Either way, I’d rather be safe than sorry.
This is the only way to drive during the Canadian winter.

I keep hearing reports on the radio, however, about a high number of people who do not drive according to the weather and road conditions. These drivers continue to drive as if it were a bright and clear day. They go too fast in general, change lanes frequently, and take turns haphazardly. 

I’m not sure if it was the fault of a driver or not but as I made my way down the highway this morning, I noticed a car completely in the ditch. The taillights were still on and the car and occupant seemed to be okay. 
I didn’t know what to do. 
I knew the roads were still treacherous and I’d already had a few winter scares this season so I kept my hands tightly on the wheel and proceeded with caution. 
I glanced at my pay-as-you-go cellphone and wondered if I should pick it up. 
It wondered if I should call the police. 
I thought that I probably shouldn’t since I don’t have a hands-free device. I didn’t know the non-emergency number of the police either. Besides, almost everyone has a cellphone these days. Perhaps the driver has already made the call. 
Ultimately I did nothing. I made it to school safe and sound but I wondered about that driver in the ditch all day long and if I should have done something. 
What would you have done?

Has something like this ever happened to you?

Not that the moment has passed, I realized that I probably could have done something.

Why didn’t I pick up the cellphone (even thought it is illegal and possibly dangerous.) At the very least, I could have dialed the radio station. It’s a free call to their traffic centre. I knew the number because they mention it so often every morning. I probably would have been off of the phone with them quite quickly too.

What are your thoughts? 


Leave a comment below and let me know. 

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2 responses to “To Call or Not to Call”

  1. my thoughts:
    I think you are a good man in general.
    I don't think any of our thoughts about what you should have done will help you. Guilt is a bitch. (can I say that on your blog??)

    Sometimes when I do something that I am not sure I should or should not, I say 'I am sorry' in my thoughts or aloud.

  2. Hi Braveheart,

    I had people stop for me when I almost slid into a ditch earlier this winter. I guess I'm feeling guilty that I couldn't return the favour.

    I know that I couldn't have helped this person get out of the ditch but it feels like I could have done something.