Deadly Consequences of Speeding
Speeding is an all-too-common driver mistake that contributes to thousands of serious automobile collisions every year. It can refer to surpassing the posted speed limit in California or driving too fast for conditions. Speeding often coincides with other dangerous driving practices, such as weaving between multiple lanes and running red lights. It is an extremely risky driver behavior that can have dire consequences.
What Is Speeding?
The dangers of speeding are well-established, which is why every state has posted speed limit signs on public roadways. Speed limits determine the maximum speed that is permitted by motor vehicle drivers on a road. These speed limits vary based on the type of road, and are often reduced in residential areas, school zones and construction zones.
The California Vehicle Code defines speeding as driving at a speed greater than is reasonable or prudent in regard to the weather and road conditions. This means a driver can get ticketed for speeding even if he or she is not technically exceeding the posted speed limit, depending on the circumstances.
How Many Car Accidents Each Year Are Caused By Speeding?
Speeding is one of the most common causes of car accidents in the United States. According to the National Safety Council, 29 percent of all traffic accident deaths in 2022 involved speeding. An average of more than 33 people per day were killed in speeding-related accidents in 2022, with a total death toll of 12,151. In Los Angeles County, 12,094 fatal and injury crashes were caused by speeding drivers in 2022.
Why Is Speeding So Dangerous?
A motor vehicle is a dangerous weapon that should be driven carefully and prudently. Drivers should keep to safe and reasonable speeds to avoid losing control of their vehicles and causing car accidents. Speeding can amplify the seriousness of a vehicle collision by increasing crash force.
The dangers of speeding include:
- Higher potential for loss of vehicle control
- Decreased driver reaction times
- Longer stopping distances
- Higher force and velocity of impact, leading to more severe injuries
- Reduced effectiveness of seat belts and airbags
- Increased risk of serious collisions such as vehicle rollovers
Speeding can turn what might have been a minor car accident into a deadly collision. Injury attorneys in Los Angeles handling accident claims have seen exceeding a speed limits, street racing or excessive speeding being factors contributing to car crashes that can cause critical or fatal injuries for those involved.
Legal Consequences of Speeding
Speeding is a traffic infraction in California that can lead to a ticket and fine for the driver. If this moving violation results in a car accident with injuries, the driver can face more serious consequences, including an arrest for criminal speeding. This can lead to jail time and driver’s license suspension.
In addition to criminal consequences, causing a car accident by speeding can also come with civil liability, meaning the speeding driver will be responsible for paying for an injured victim’s medical bills, property damage and other losses. In California, the driver at fault for causing a car crash is held responsible for paying. If you get hurt by a speeding driver in California, consult with a Los Angeles car accident attorney at Rose, Klein & Marias, LLP to discuss your ability to recover financial compensation. We can help you find evidence of speeding to strengthen your claim.