Nearly every driver at some point goes over the speed limit. Whether you are driving faster to get to your destination or not paying attention, you likely have sped during your time behind the wheel.
For many regular speeders, it can seem acceptable for experienced drivers to exceed the speed limit, but less so for people without experience. Unfortunately, even drivers with years of experience cannot speed safely.
Here’s what you should know about the dangers of speeding.
From bad to worse
Speed will make a significant difference in a car accident. A collision that would be a mere fender-bender at 20 miles per hour becomes devastating at 50 miles per hour.
While it may not seem like a big deal to add a few miles per hour here and there, fast driving can increase the likelihood of dangers, such as:
- Loss of control
- Decreased effectiveness of safety equipment
- Increased stopping distance
These factors can turn what would have been a minor accident with no injuries into a devastating event for everyone involved.
Death becomes more likely
Although cars have more safety features than ever before, being involved in a higher-speed collision increases the chances that someone will die in the crash. In 2019, there were over 9,000 speeding-related deaths.
In addition to increasing the severity of the crash, people who speed are more likely to make other unsafe choices on the road, such as:
- Making abrupt lane changes
- Tailgating
- Running red lights
Increased speed often means the driver will miss what is happening on the road ahead and lose essential seconds to react safely.
Driving within the speed limit and keeping road conditions in mind can help you get to your destination safely.
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