Mechanically they couldn't unless they tried really hard to intentionally do so. Now it's just a default given cars, motorbikes, leafblowers, lawnmowers. Late capitalism has been effective at putting the costs onto other people.

Don't get me wrong, such inventions are net good (cars and motorbikes yes, not so much leafblowers), but they need to be regulated and taxed in a way that manages the additional cost burden that others are forced to pay.

It's because people weren't afraid of punching each other in the head as one or all potential steps of conflict resolution.

Correct?, no. Irreplaceable incentive to not be a dick? Seemingly.