The impact of another vehicle striking yours may be enough to cause injuries and property damage. This may seem like a no-brainer, but it follows that if the vehicle that strikes you is traveling at a high rate of speed, the damage will be far more serious. In fact, speed is often the factor that makes a bad accident into a devastating tragedy.
The latest numbers from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reveal that in a single year, over 9,000 people died in accidents in which speed was a factor. If this seems like a shocking number, you may be even more surprised to learn that this statistic is 6% lower than the previous year. If you have suffered injuries or lost a loved one in a recent traffic accident, it is likely that speed played a part.
The tragic consequences
Drivers who exceed the posted speed limits may have reasons that seem important to them. Some have many obligations to meet in the course of the day, and others may simply be frustrated by the slow-moving traffic. One driver may be running late for an appointment while another may have no concern for the rules of the road or for your safety. No matter the excuse a driver may have, the consequences of speeding are the same, including the following:
- A speeding driver is less likely to maintain control of the vehicle.
- A speeder will need considerably more time and distance to bring the vehicle to a stop.
- When a vehicle collides with yours at a high speed, your vehicle’s airbags, seat belts and other safety equipment will be less effective.
- The damage to your vehicle will probably be greater if the other driver is going too fast.
- You and your passengers are more likely to suffer severe or even fatal injuries in a high-speed collision.
Safe speed may also have nothing to do with the posted limit. Weather conditions, heavy traffic or road construction may make even the legal limit too fast. Additionally, a speeding driver may be displaying signs of aggression, and this can add another element of danger to the situation.
If you are suffering because of your injuries or the death of a loved one in a speed-related accident, you may be feeling the weight of the unfairness of the situation. Fortunately, you have options for seeking justice. A skilled attorney can help you explore those options, including pursuing compensation that may assist you in getting back on your feet.