Rubbernecks Exposed: Why People Gawk While Driving Past an Accident

Are You a Rubberneck?

We've all been there. Driving smoothly to our destination only to get stuck sitting in traffic- sometimes for miles. We wonder why things are moving so slow.

At times the hold up is an accident, but most of the time the real reason traffic is moving so slow is because of all the gawkers that have slowed down to view the wreckage from the accident. I'll admit I've been tempted to look at an accident when I'm finally passing the scene.

Here are some reasons why people gawk when driving past accidents:

1. They want to know what the delay was. Since they've been sitting so long in traffic naturally they'll want to know why. Perhaps they'll want to explain why they're running late to their destination.

2. They want to see if anyone was hurt. If the traffic delay happens to be a car accident people want to know if anyone was hurt. If there are ambulances at the scene they'll try to get a glimpse to see if they can see victims. Some gawkers are looking out of concern. Others are just being nosy.

3. They want to check out the damage to the vehicles. Another thing people are looking for is if any vehicles are damaged and just how much damage was done. Anyone that owns a vehicle knows repairs can be costly and cosmetic repairs aren't cheap. Seeing other vehicles in bad shape causes a gut reaction for other vehicle owners. They're grateful their vehicles weren't involved.

4. They want to find out who caused the accident. If more than one vehicle is involved, passersby may look to see if it's obvious who caused the accident. Some people will even try to hypothesize how the accident occurred.

5. They have nothing else better to do. Some drivers have nothing else better to do than to look at an accident as they pass by. If they aren't in a rush to get anywhere an accident is sure to get their attention.