Seems it was a flat calm night with excellent vision and when the ship did hit the iceberg. Someone in charge didn't stop but went on full bore. You got to wonder what would have happened if it did stop and reversed engines,we may never know.
EJ had assurances, including those of his Jesuit Master, Fr. Frank Brown, that the SS Californian would be nearby and able to take all of his survivors.
Fr. Brown, SJ, 1880-1960 Capt. Edward John Smith