We watch to learn what not to do.
I saw a lot of good drivers stop and leave a space cushion in front of them. This provided gaps to break up the collision chain and prevent further injuries.
I saw drivers who moved well off the road.
I saw big rig drivers slow and stop safely.
And I saw fast moving jerks plow into the scrum barely slowing.
Don’t be a fast moving jerk.
Be one of the ones getting away from the stopped cars and way off to the side.
... and unless you’re absolutely certain there’s no vehicle bearing down on you or your vehicle is in a very dire situation such as being on fire, do not get out, stay buckled in. Cars and trucks careening out of control down a hill are not going to be able to avoid running you down. If you do get out, get well clear of the roadway, as far away as you can get.
“Be one of the ones getting away from the stopped cars and way off to the side.”
Yes, great lesson. And stay in your car. Your car may still get crushed by a semi, but there’s a better chance you’ll get squashed by a car if you get out.
The people driving off to the side were smart. If my family were with me I would have driven through that fence and well into the field.