Always have an "out"

I believe that many accidents are caused by what I call "high risk, low rewards" moves. Many times these moves are attempts to pass at a higher rate of speed while approaching much slower traffic. Of course, we encounter slow drivers all the time. Vehicles moving slower than the traffic around them creates a following of drivers quickly. Most looking to make a move. When approaching a cluster like this I have a few considerations in mind. Primary being that these cars backed up behind the slower vehicle are eager to make their own pass. As I approach these cars while in a passing lane I'm aware that one or more of these cars may or may not see me. With their frustration and anger growing the potential for one of these cars making a drastic, short sighted move becomes more and more likely. Knowing this, I always make sure I have an "out". An out being an evasive maneuver. I want to make sure that while making the pass that there is another passing lane available free of fast approaching traffic, or, at the very least, a wide shoulder that will allow me to avoid an accident should an unexpected move occurs. Alternatively, if I decide to make the pass and I'm between a 18 wheeler, or cement divider and the slower moving cluster then I'm in a position where there's no where to go if a driver happens to not see me. At that point, the wise move is to realize the high risk potential, hold back and wait for the "out" to clear. Many times it's better to realize that "patience is a virtue" and to make moves that allow you to "live to see another day".