Speeding endangers everyone on the road. It’s usually one component of aggressive driving, which the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) defines as “committing a combination of moving traffic offenses so as to endanger other persons or property.”
Speeding isn’t simply driving above the posted speed limit but includes driving too fast for road conditions, or any other speed-related violation charged (racing, speed greater than reasonable, and exceeding special speed limits).
Here are a few of the dangers caused by speeding:
- Your crash risk considerably increases for every mile per hour over the speed limit
The amount of distance needed to safely stop a vehicle increases- The Driver’s reaction time decreases, putting the lives of other drivers at risk as well as the passengers
- The fuel consumption/cost is increased significantly
- If caught speeding by law enforcement or traffic device, the speeding ticket can be up to $500 in fines. However, if the speeding occurred in a school or construction zone, the maximum fine is $1,000.
Speeding is preventable. Drivers should be aware of their speed when on the road and make adjustments in high effort areas or bad weather. Drivers should be alert of what’s going on around them and make sure that there are safe distances between other vehicles. These are some tips to help you drive safely.
- Allow yourself time to drive. It is for your own safety. Speeding often happens when drivers are running late or are in a hurry. If you are running late to your work or an appointment, call or send a text before you head out to let them know you’re late, that way you will drive more relaxed.
- Try not to reflect on another driver’s speed. Resist the temptation to keep up with the speeders and avoid letting them influence your driving habits to get you to go faster. Some speeders will even ride your tail in an attempt to intimidate other drivers into driving faster. No one else is driving your car but you. Be safe.
- Beware of the speed limits wherever you go. Speed limits are set to factor safety and road conditions. Make sure you’re paying attention to the road and following speed limits.
- Believe it or not, the music you listen to affects your driving significantly. Fast-paced music might encourage you to drive faster than you should while listening to slow-paced or light music can help you slow down.
If you have gotten a ticket for speeding, please feel free to contact us, our consultations are free of cost!
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Sources: https://www.pulseprotects.com/dangers-of-speeding/
https://www.nhtsa.gov/risky-driving/speeding
https://www.safetyandhealthmagazine.com/articles/16093-new-ntsb-report-shows-the-dangers-of-speeding
https://www.fortheinjured.com/blog/why-speeding-is-dangerous/