Drivers are responsible for the choices they make while behind the wheel, including traveling over the speed limit. Speed limits are in place as a way to protect drivers, make the roads safer and reduce the chance of accidents. These speed limits are based on the conditions and the design of the specific road, and adhering to posted speed limits is critical. Speeding is one of the most common reasons for motor vehicle accidents, and it can lead to other devastating consequences.
Speeding is one of the most common forms of reckless driving. It is quite common as most drivers will likely go over the posted speed limit at some point in their lives. There are risks involved with speeding, whether it is five miles per hour over the speed limit or much more. If you suffered injuries in a serious accident, it is possible speeding played a role in what happened to you.
The effects of speed
Speeding is reckless, dangerous and completely preventable. A vehicle moving at speeds over the posted limit are more likely to be involved in a crash. In addition to being more likely that an accident will occur, other effects of speed include the following:
- When a driver is speeding, it is more likely to increase the severity of a crash.
- An accident involving increased rates of speed is more likely to result in serious injuries.
- In the event of a crash, speeding will reduce the effectiveness of safety equipment.
- Speeding makes it more difficult to safely maneuver curves and make turns.
- When a speeding vehicle is in a crash, that vehicle is more likely to roll over.
- A speeding vehicle has a greater stopping distance, and a driver has less time to react to hazards.
Simply put, speeding causes unnecessary injuries and deaths. Through accident reconstruction and other measures, it is possible to identify the role that speeding played in the crash that left you injured.
What’s next?
If you are the victim of a speed-related accident, you do not have to suffer alone. You may benefit from seeking the guidance and support of a professional who can provide you with an explanation of the legal options available to you. Your options may include a civil claim, a course of action that may allow you to seek justice, fair compensation and recovery from your financial losses after an accident.