Other peoples misfortunes

So the snow fell at the weekend and I have discovered I really do feel happy when watching other people's misfortunes.
Our street is one long slow hill and within about an hour I could hear the sound that draws me to the window...screeching, skidding tyres of cars stuck half way up the hill. I watch in ore thinking you stupid people why try when you know you'll fail (having been there myself).
What's that I see, my neighbour randomly out helping these poor drivers. He really is a good guy but he was ruining my fun!
Why is it we laugh at other peoples misfortunes? I do it all the time and wonder if it's being nervous in a situation no one has any control over!
Either way it still makes me chuckle and therefore makes me feel better.
I'm going to hell for sure.