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At Dermer Appel Ruder, our Norcross car accident attorneys know that speeding significantly contributes to the number of vehicle crashes in Georgia. The impact of speeding on road safety can be observed in various ways, leading to an increased likelihood and severity of accidents.
According to the National Highway Safety Administration, last year, 12,330 people were killed in speeding-related crashes nationwide — an 8% increase from the previous year — accounting for 29% of all traffic fatalities.
Closer to home, the Georgia Governor’s Office of Highway Safety reported 1,797 traffic fatalities throughout the state last year — 369 were the result of speed-related crashes.
Why Speed Plays a Significant Role in Georgia Auto Accidents
In Georgia and throughout the U.S., most neighborhoods, city streets, and interstates have posted speed limits. These are not simply a recommendation. Speed limits are established and enforced to ensure road users’ safety and minimize the risk of accidents and injuries.
When drivers exceed the speed limit, there are secondary consequences, including:
Reduced Reaction Times
Speeding reduces a driver’s reaction time. When a driver travels at a high speed, they have less time to perceive and react to unexpected events, like sudden stops, obstacles, or changes in traffic conditions.
Increased Stopping Distance
Higher speeds result in increased stopping distances. If a driver needs to come to a sudden stop, it takes longer for the vehicle to halt at higher speeds, increasing the risk of rear-end collisions.
Difficulty Judging Distance and Speed
Speeding makes it more challenging for drivers to accurately judge the distance and speed of other vehicles, pedestrians, and obstacles. This can lead to miscalculations and errors in judgment.
Greater Severity of Collisions
Crashes that occur at higher speeds tend to be more severe and result in more serious injuries or fatalities. The impact force is greater, and safety features like seat belts and airbags may be less effective in mitigating the consequences.
Difficulty Maintaining Control
Speeding reduces a driver’s ability to maintain vehicle control, especially in adverse weather conditions or on curves and turns. This can lead to skidding, sliding, or loss of control.
Risky Behavior and Non-compliance with Traffic Signals and Signs
Speeding is often associated with other risky behaviors, like aggressive driving, tailgating, and weaving between lanes. Speeding drivers may also be less likely to comply with traffic signals and signs, like stop signs and red lights, increasing the likelihood of collisions.
Impaired Ability to Navigate
Speeding may impair a driver’s ability to navigate and make appropriate driving decisions. This includes negotiating turns, merging safely, and making timely lane changes.
If you have been injured or lost a loved one in a collision caused by a speeding driver in Georgia, contact our Norcross personal injury lawyer and wrongful death lawyers at Dermer Appel Ruder today by calling (404)-892-8884 or online to discuss your case during a free consultation.
