An accident caused by speeding might involve racing, exceeding the posted speed limit, or driving too fast for current conditions. These negligent behaviors can have devastating repercussions on all those involved. In 2018, speeding-related accidents caused over 9,378 fatalities. Most of these deaths could have been avoided.
Accidents related to speeding have been decreasing over the years. However, speeding still holds a significant risk for road users. This article discusses several ways you can avoid a speed-related crash.
If you have been injured in a speeding accident, a Grand Junction Car Accident Lawyer can help you seek compensation for your losses.
Causes of Speeding
Despite the dangers of speeding, 93,000 speeding tickets are written in the country every day. Drivers might speed for a number of reasons. The most typical include:
- A belief that they are alone on a roadway
- Running late to get to a destination.
- Negligence
- Recklessness
- Racing
- Medical emergencies
- Intoxicated driving
Dangers of Speeding
Speeding accounts for 26 percent of all motor vehicle accidents on average. This alone proves that it is a dangerous driving habit. However, most drivers still engage in it because they are unaware of the dangers it poses to them and other road users.
Some of the reasons speeding is a dangerous activity include:
- It increases the likelihood of road rage tendencies.
- It reduces your response and reaction time.
- It increases your stoppage time, so you require more distance to come to a stop.
- You are more likely to lose control of your vehicle.
- It increases the force of impact in the event of a collision.
- It reduces the effectiveness of your car’s safety features, such as seat belts and airbags.
How Can You Avoid Speeding?
The answer to this question seems obvious. Shouldn’t you just slow down? However, it is not as simple as that. Drivers speed for different reasons, which means the countermeasures will also vary. The following tips should help you stay within the posted speed limit on every road:
- Leave Early – If you are needed at a destination by a certain time, leave early. Doing so will allow you enough time to get there within a practical speed limit, taking into account traffic and other emergencies.
- Plan Your Route – Use modern GPS to plan your route. The system will provide you with an estimated time and alternate routes should you encounter traffic.
- Watch Your Speedometer – Keep track of your speed throughout your trip. This will help ensure you’re not speeding and are right on schedule.
- Avoid Driving While Stressed – Negative emotions can encourage rod rage behaviors such as speeding. If you feel angry or frustrated, pull over and take a few deep breaths to calm yourself down.
- Avoid Driving While Impaired – Driving while intoxicated impairs your judgment. You are more likely to speed when drunk than sober.
Consult a Grand Junction Car Accident Lawyer
Some of the effects of an accident caused by speeding include physical pain, medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering. These losses can pose a heavy financial burden on you and your loved ones. Fortunately, you can work with an experienced Grand Junction Car Accident Lawyer to seek damages.
Cimarron Ridge Legal Group holds over 70 years of combined experience. We are dedicated to protecting the rights of car accident victims in Grand Junction and the surrounding areas.
Have you been injured in a speeding auto accident? Contact us at (970) 644-5194 today.
