According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 29% of all traffic fatalities in 2021 were attributed to speeding. Whether you’re running late, distracted, or in the throes of road rage, it’s easy to succumb to the temptation of speeding. However, this seemingly harmless act can have devastating consequences for the speeding driver and innocent bystanders on the road. The dangers of speeding are often overlooked and can have catastrophic consequences such as wrongful death.
In this blog, our Quad Cities personal injury attorneys review some of the top dangers of speeding and how to avoid speeding.
Dangers of Speeding
Reduced Control
Speeding compromises your ability to maintain control of your vehicle. Higher speeds make steering, braking, and maneuvering more challenging, which can be especially dangerous on curvy roads or when encountering unexpected hazards. This loss of control can result in skidding, spinning out, or veering off the road, leading to an accident.
Increased Stopping Distance
Higher speeds mean it takes longer to come to a complete stop. Speeding drivers have less time to perceive danger, react, and apply the brakes. This can be especially dangerous when unexpected obstacles appear. The combination of higher speeds and longer stopping distances dramatically diminishes the ability to avoid accidents, leading to more severe collisions.
Hazardous Road Conditions
Speeding becomes even more dangerous during inclement weather. Rain, snow, and icy roads decrease traction, making it more challenging to maintain control of the vehicle. Speeding amplifies the risk of hydroplaning or skidding, making driving safely nearly impossible.
Rollover Accidents
Speeding is often the cause of rollover accidents. A rollover is likely when a vehicle travels too fast, and the driver attempts to maneuver or overcorrect. This is especially dangerous in high-profile vehicles like SUVs and trucks, which are more prone to rollovers than cars due to their higher center of gravity.
Distracted Driving
The combination of distracted driving and speeding can quickly become deadly. Distracted driving makes you less likely to realize how fast you are going. Taking your eyes off the road or being distracted by electronic devices can prevent you from reacting to hazards quickly, increasing the risk of a rollover.
Catastrophic Injuries
Speeding significantly amplifies the risks of catastrophic injuries. In car accidents caused by speed, the force of impact increases, leading to more severe injuries and an increased risk of fatalities. Crucial safety features like seatbelts and airbags may not provide adequate protection during a car accident caused by speeding.
Tips to Avoid Speeding Accidents
Despite the known dangers of speeding, many drivers still speed excessively. Here are a few tips to help you avoid the temptation of speeding:
- Leave early: leaving early before you need to be somewhere is an easy way to prevent speeding.
- Be aware of speed limits: pay attention to speed limit signs and adjust your driving accordingly. This is especially important if you are driving in an unfamiliar area.
- Understand the consequences: recognize speeding puts your life at risk and endangers others on the road. Hold yourself accountable for your driving behavior. Recognize that you have control over your actions and choose to drive responsibly. Acknowledge the potential consequences of speeding and prioritize safety.
- Manage frustration behind the wheel: find healthy ways to manage stress and frustration while driving. If you become impatient or stressed behind the wheel, take a deep breath, listen to music you enjoy, or use relaxation techniques to stay focused and composed.
- Use technology: utilize your vehicle’s technology. Many modern vehicles are equipped with features like cruise control, speed limit reminders, and adaptive cruise control, which can help maintain a consistent speed and avoid unintentional speeding.
Injured In a Speed-Related Car Accident? Contact WKC Law
Speeding is a dangerous habit that poses a severe threat to road safety. The risks associated with exceeding speed limits cannot be underestimated. Remind yourself that speed limits are in place for your safety and the safety of others. Also, becoming aware of the dangers of speeding is a good reminder not to do it.
Even if you don’t speed, that doesn’t mean another driver won’t. If you or a loved one have been injured by the negligent and reckless act of speeding, one of our Quad Cities personal injury attorneys will fight for you and see you receive a fair settlement. Our caring and compassionate lawyers will support you throughout your journey of seeking compensation for your injuries, pain and suffering, lost wages, and more.
To get started on your claim, schedule your free case consultation. Reach us 24/7 by phone at (309) 794-1515, via LiveChat, or by filling out our contact form.