It is safe to say that almost everyone has exceeded the posted speed limit at some point. While this may not seem like a big deal at the time, it is an issue that can cause serious and even fatal accidents.
Even if you are one of the few drivers who always obey the speed limit, you are still at risk since so many other drivers tend to speed. Along with learning how to stay safe on the road, it is also necessary to know why speeding is so dangerous (and, therefore, something you should avoid doing).
Dangers of speeding
Speeding increases the possibility that a driver will lose control of their vehicle, increase their stopping distance and increase the severity of a crash if one does occur. Additionally, when one or multiple drivers are speeding when a collision occurs, it increases the likelihood of severe injuries and fatalities.
Speeding is always illegal, but that does not stop people from doing it. So, how do you protect yourself from speeding drivers? Here are some tips:
- Give yourself plenty of time to get to your destination so that you aren’t tempted to speed yourself.
- Stay in the right-hand lane as much as possible so that faster drivers (and speeders) can easily go around you.
- If you are being tailgated by a speeding driver, try to move to the right to encourage the driver to pass you.
- If a speeding driver cannot pass you easily, consider pulling into a parking lot or onto the side of the road to let them by.
- Be particularly vigilant during the times speeders are most likely to be around (such as during rush hours).
Your rights after an accident with a speeding driver
You have rights if you are involved in an accident with a speeding driver. Be sure to contact the authorities and document all the information you can remember about the incident. This will help you recover compensation from the at-fault party.
