Many collisions become more serious when drivers _________.

When drivers panic during a driving situation, their decision-making abilities can become compromised. Panic can lead to a range of unsafe behaviors, such as swerving, sudden braking, or even overreacting without assessing the situation accurately. This heightened emotional state interferes with their capacity to remain calm and think logically, which is essential for safely navigating through potentially dangerous scenarios on the road. In moments of panic, drivers might not execute necessary maneuvers effectively, increasing the likelihood of a collision or making a current situation worse.

While speeding up, reckless driving, and stopping suddenly can also contribute to collision severity, panic specifically affects a driver's mental state and judgment, making it a significant factor in escalating the seriousness of collisions.