Miami Accident Lawyer Blog
Most drivers are well-aware of the dangers of speeding, but recent information published by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) sheds some light on the severity of the problem. Speeding has been a factor in around one-third of all fatal motor vehicle accidents for the last 20 years, and it contributed to 26% of such incidents in 2017. Not only does speed lead to a high number of fatalities, but it is also a top cause of serious injury-causing crashes.
If you were hurt or lost a loved one in an auto collision caused by someone else’s negligent acts, including speeding, it is important to contact a Miami car accidents attorney right away. In the meantime, you can also review some information on the dangers of speeding.
How Speed Limits Impact Safety on Florida’s Roads
Speed limits are not arbitrary or implemented just to cause frustration for motorists. They are based upon many different factors and conditions that may be present along the roadway, such as:
- Twists, curves, and turns;
- Steep hills or grades that affect visibility;
- How busy the road is at different times of day;
- The physical condition of the road;
- The presence of traffic signs and signals;
- Connections, intersections, and merging traffic; and,
- Many other features.
Many motorists forget that the speed limits imposed on various stretches of road indicate the fastest speed that any vehicle should be traveling in the best conditions. Though Floridians do not worry about snow or sleet, excessive rain, hail, and fog can be problematic. Therefore, even a driver traveling at the posted speed limit can create a safety hazard to others.
The Effects of Excessive Speed on Miami Auto Collisions
In general, the faster a vehicle is traveling, the more time the motorist needs to recognize and respond to a potential accident. The proper reaction will vary depending on the hazard, but it will typically involve stopping quickly, slowing down, or turning away. Drivers who are speeding may not be able to accomplish these maneuvers. There may be just a split second to recognize the hazard and make a decision on how to evade it.
In addition, when a driver is traveling at an excessive speed, it becomes difficult for others on the roadway to predict his or her behavior. If you are a pedestrian, bicyclist, or motorist, you might not recognize the threat of a speeding vehicle. You do not have accurate information on when that driver will arrive at an intersection, so you could pull out in front of the negligent motorist. If he or she is unable to stop or avoid you, the situation could lead to a serious accident.
Contact a Miami Car Accidents Lawyer About Your Rights
Though speeding is a top contributing factor in auto collisions, there are many other forms of negligence involved in crashes. To learn more about your legal remedies, please contact the Miami, Fort Lauderdale, or West Palm Beach offices of Gerson & Schwartz, PA. We can set up a free case evaluation with an experienced attorney, where we can review the details of your case and explain your options for recovering compensation.