Sunday, February 17, 2008

Car Crash Scenarios

Some guy hit my grandma and I while we were pulling out of my driveway and it kind of made me think about the way people interact during confrontations. So, I'm going to start of the story with the accident, and you tell me which way to handle the situation is better.

Story:
You are pulling out of your driveway. You see a truck coming down the street and wait for it to pass before backing out. After the truck passes you start to leave the driveway. All of a sudden you feel a jerk and realize that you were just hit. You get out of your car to confront the other driver.

Scenario 1:
You are mad that this man had clearly not been paying attention, but decide to be civil. The man asks what had happen, and you tell him politely, noting that he is missing several teeth. He is obviously drunk and finds the ordeal very funny. You play along and deal with his ignorance while inspecting your car. It seems to be fine. You decide you should just let it go. Nothing had happened. You shake his hand and go about with your business.

Scenario 2:
You are mad that the man was stupid enough to not pay attention and to hit you. You get out of your car and walk up to the toothless driver. He finds the situation funny, but you set him straight and give him a piece of your mind. You look at your car and notice there is no damage, but are still mad that this drunk man had not been paying attention. You both yell at each other being very truthful about your opinions, and then go on your way.

Which is the right way to handle something like that? Do you act fake like in Sc. 1?? Do you let it slide because there wasn't any damage. Or do you be truthful and get angry? Perhaps he'll learn his lesson?

No comments: