According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in 2018, people driving at high speeds had accidents which killed 9,378 people in the U.S. These figures have remained consistent over the last two decades, with speeding contributing to 26% of all traffic fatalities.
Speeding and aggressive driving behavior
Several factors contribute to aggressive driving. Even though law-abiding drivers maintain regard for others while using the roads, occasionally, some display overly aggressive driving behaviors. Many drivers feel empowered to drive erratically because they feel that their vehicle affords them some measure of anonymity.
However, some drivers only occasionally display aggressive driving behavior, such as when they encounter heavy traffic, are running late for a meeting or appointment, or face other challenges.
Consequences of Speeding
Speed limits are designed to protect pedestrians and drivers according to road conditions, weather conditions, and visibility. Unfortunately, speeding may cause consequences which extend past breaking the law. Exceeding posted speed limits can lead to:
- Loss of control of the vehicle
- Reduced effectiveness of built-in safety protection
- Reduced ability to quickly stop
- Increased severity of associated crashes
- Higher chance of pedestrian fatalities
- Higher fuel consumption
When a vehicle travels at 20 mph and strikes a pedestrian, the pedestrian has a 93% chance of surviving the hit. In collisions at 30 mph, the rate of survival drops to 20 percent. And, at 60 mph, the death rate rises to nearly 100%. What’s more, even those vehicles which travel just 15 mph above the median speed face an increased risk of accident. The bottom line is that you should always obey the posted speed limit. And when road conditions are rough, slow down until you are driving under the posted limit.
How can speeding fatalities be reduced?
Authorities across the U.S. rely on several methods designed to deter drivers from speeding. These include remote cameras, radar, and LiDar. Studies have shown that these tools help decrease the number of speeding violations, as well as reducing the number of accidents at intersections. Although people complain about traffic citations, studies reveal that cameras posted at intersections effectively reduce intersection accidents caused by speeding vehicles.
Staying Safe on the Road
- Ensure plenty of time to get to a destination.
- Give right of way by moving out of the left lane if someone is speeding behind you.
- Stay within posted speed limits by keeping your eye on the speedometer and/or using cruise control.
- Remember to drive slowly when weather is a factor.
- Notify authorities if someone tailgates you or harasses you in any other way.
- Wear a seat belt. But realize that, even at low speeds, you could face whiplash, tendon injuries, back or knee strain, and even Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI).
What to do if you’re involved in a car accident
If you have suffered an injury or personal loss from any type of collision in Ontario or Irvine, California, contact Moet Law. We can advise you about the compensation you deserve. Our team of experienced personal injury and accident lawyers works through the entire process, working directly with our clients. This ensures the best outcome and clients are informed through the entire process.
About Moet Law Group in Ontario and Irvine, California
If you’re in the Inland Empire, Los Angeles basin, Orange County or Riverside area in Southern California, contact Moet Law. Our team of specialized attorneys offer a complimentary case evaluation. We can advise you about the proper steps to take relative to your insurers, police, medical professionals, and others.
