Speeding is a major road issue in Washington, D.C., and a significant contributor to the severity and frequency of car accidents. Pedestrians and drivers are both at risk since it is one of the leading causes of accidents. Let’s examine how speed is detrimental to keeping everyone safe. When you’ve been injured in an accident caused by a driver going above the speed limit, you may be able to recover compensation by filing a personal injury claim.
The Dangers of Speeding
Speeding is not only illegal but also hazardous. Speed limits are posted for a reason, and drivers who ignore them compromise their ability to control their vehicles. Driving too fast reduces drivers’ ability to react to unexpected events, increases braking distances, and magnifies impact forces during collisions. As a result, accidents are more likely to occur, and their consequences are more severe.
Higher Speeds Cause Increased Accident Risk
There is a direct correlation between speed and auto accidents. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), driving over the speed limit accounted for over 29% of all traffic fatalities in 2021. In the same year, it caused 12,330 fatalities. Speed makes it harder for vehicles to maneuver safely, increasing their chances of losing control and crashing.
Speed and Injury Severity
As a result of speeding, accidents are more likely to occur, and injuries are more likely to be severe. High-speed collisions result in more severe vehicle damage and a greater likelihood of life-threatening injuries and fatalities because the force of impact multiplies. In high-speed crashes, the body cannot withstand the forces generated, resulting in more severe injuries, such as head trauma, spinal cord damage, and fractures. The risk of life-changing injuries can be reduced significantly by driving within the speed limit.
Why Is Going Above the Speed Limit So Common?
Driving too fast is prevalent on our roads for several reasons. Drivers often exceed speed limits due to impatience, a feeling of invincibility, and the rush of modern life. In addition, individuals may speed to reach their destinations faster or because they are under the false impression that going faster will save them time. It is essential that individuals and society understand these underlying factors so that they can better address the issue.
The Legal Consequences of Driving Over the Limit
Accidents caused by speeding not only cause physical and emotional harm but also have legal implications. For drivers who exceed the speed limit, tickets, fines, suspensions of licenses, and increased insurance premiums are common penalties. Those who speed and cause accidents that result in injuries or fatalities may face criminal charges, lawsuits, and substantial financial liability. Respecting speed limits is crucial to preventing legal troubles and protecting lives.
Roeser Law Firm – Car Accident Compensation Lawyer
Roeser Law Firm is here to help you if you have been injured in an accident caused by negligence. Get in touch with us by calling (202) 660-4070 or submitting an online message. If you need assistance securing maximum compensation for your injury and protecting your rights, securing the help of an injury lawyer can make all the difference.
