It is common for people to disagree about how speed limits should apply. For instance, there are those who say that the speed limits on the interstates should be raised since these are statistically one of the safest places that people can drive. There are others who point out that speed is a very big hazard on the road and that higher speeds may lead to more fatal accidents.
So how does speed impact accidents? Does it actually cause more crashes to occur, or does it just make the crashes that do happen more serious?
Problems in both areas
The reality is that speed is problematic on both sides of the coin. It can make accidents more likely and it makes them more severe.
For instance, when someone is driving at a higher rate of speed, they need a longer braking distance. They also have to process information more quickly as things change around them. This means that they are vastly more likely to get into an accident if there is an unexpected change. They could also lose control of their vehicle if they are driving too fast for conditions or the road design.
Once an accident does occur, then speed is closely correlated to the odds of severe injuries or even fatalities. When cars are traveling at a higher rate of speed, more energy is involved in the collision and that makes it more traumatic – as a general rule – for those in the vehicles.
Seeking financial compensation
Have you been injured in a car accident caused by another driver, perhaps one who was speeding? You need to know how to seek financial compensation for medical bills, lost wages and more.
