Consider these statistics about speeding: there were 12,330 people killed in speeding-related crashes in 2021. This was an 8% increase from the previous year. Of all traffic fatalities in 2021, 29% involved speeding.
Speeding collisions are preventable. This month, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has launched a campaign called "Speeding Wrecks Lives" in order to educated drivers about the dangers of speeding, and we’re here to help spread that message!
Did you know that you could get a ticket for speeding even when you’re following the speed limit in certain conditions? There are times when you should drive below the speed limit. Drivers have to slow down when approaching and crossing an intersection, going around a curve, approaching the top of a hill, or traveling on a narrow and winding road. Adverse weather, traffic, and pedestrians may also require you to drive below the posted speed limit.
Why is speeding dangerous?
Speeding reduces your reaction time. When you’re speeding, you have less time to react to unexpected hazards on the road, like other cars, pedestrians, or animals. This can lead to dangerous and often fatal collisions.
Speed increases your stopping distance. The faster your vehicle is going, the longer it takes for it to come to a complete stop.
It makes it harder to control your car. When you’re speeding, your car is more likely to lose traction slippery or wet conditions. This can lead to hydroplaning or skids.
It increases the severity of crashes. If you do get into a crash while speeding, the crash is more likely to be fatal or serious. This is because the force of the impact is greater when you’re going faster.
Avoiding Speeding Drivers
You can follow traffic laws perfectly and still be at risk because of the poor choices other drivers make. Here are a few things you can do to help you stay safe when those around you choose to speed:
- Be aware of your surroundings. Pay attention to the cars around you, and be on the lookout for any signs that a driver is speeding. This could include tailgating, weaving in and out of traffic, or driving too fast for the conditions.
- Leave plenty of space between you and the car in front of you. This will give you more time to react if the speeding driver does something unexpected.
- Don’t tailgate. Tailgating puts you and the other driver at risk of a rear-end collision. If you’re following a speeding driver, give them even more space than you would normally. Don’t try to get around them by speeding up yourself.
- Pull over in a safe and legal location if you can. If you’re feeling unsafe, pull over to the side of the road and let the speeding driver pass. Do not exit your car or do anything to get the other driver’s attention.
Making smart choices on the road and driving the appropriate speed for current conditions will help keep you and those around you safe. Always stay alert and do your part to prevent collisions.
Are you interested in learning more about traffic safety?
Are you looking for defensive driving and traffic school courses? Do you want a discount on your auto insurance? Do you know a teen who’s ready to take an online driver education course?
Safe2Drive is here to help! We offer convenient online courses for drivers of any age! Visit our website today to learn about the online courses we offer in your state.