We often hear about distracted driving being a major cause of car accidents on Maryland’s extremely busy roads and highways. Another major factor that may not get the attention it deserves is speeding.
There are many things that make it easy to speed when driving. If other drivers on the road are speeding, you may justify speeding by telling yourself you are just keeping up with the flow of traffic. The many traffic backups on Maryland’s roads can also cause you to speed up when you get through them to make up for lost time.
Disturbing speeding statistics
It is important to remember that none of these reasons justify speeding. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, over 11,000 motor vehicle accident deaths in 2020 were caused by speeding. This statistic is especially startling, considering there was likely less overall traffic on the roads in 2020.
Speeding does not always mean simply driving at or under the legal speed limit. Certain factors can mean you are driving negligently even if you are driving the speed limit.
For example, in weather conditions such as heavy rain or a snowstorm, driving the speed limit can still be viewed as unsafe driving. You should also never speed through construction zones and adhere to the posted construction zone limit.
Why speeding is so dangerous
Speeding is dangerous for many reasons. It reduces your ability to control your vehicle and increases your stopping distance if you must quickly put on your breaks. Any accident injuries are likely to be more serious from the stronger impact.
You can help promote safety on the road by dealing with speeding or otherwise reckless drivers properly. Try to stay away from them and let them get by you. Do not hesitate to pull over or get off the road if the speeder is tailgating you.
Your options after an accident involving speeding
Victims of motor vehicle accidents often sustain injuries that require long healing times and involve significant pain and suffering. High medical bills and missed time from work are also likely, but compensation may be available through successfully proving negligence through a personal injury action.
