As you know, there are speed limits for a reason. Speeding can significantly increase the chance of car accident and the likelihood that any injuries or damage will be serious. With the prevalence of distracted driving and the known dangers of drunk driving, it’s easy to overlook how speed plays a role in many grave or fatal accidents in Kentucky.
If you were hurt in a car accident, it is possible that speed was one of the reasons you suffered injuries. In fact, statistics suggest that speed has been a factor in as many as two-thirds of all motor vehicle accidents for more than two decades. Driving over the posted speed limit is reckless, and it places every motorist on the road at an increased chance of an injury.
What’s so bad about driving fast?
Many people underestimate the danger of driving a little or a lot faster than the speed limit. After all, most people drive fast, especially on the interstate, right? In reality, the posted speed limit represents the appropriate speeds for people to drive in order to stay safe on that specific road. Some of the reasons why speeding is never worth it include the following:
- Speed slows a driver’s reaction times and makes it difficult to stop in enough time to avoid a hazard in the road.
- Speed makes it more likely that a driver will lose control of his or her vehicle.
- Speed makes it more likely that a crash will result in serious injuries for all parties involved.
- Speed can reduce the effectiveness of protective equipment, such as seat belts, in a crash.
Most drivers are not necessarily trying to drive aggressively or endanger others when they speed. Most of the time, the person behind the wheel is simply trying to get to his or her destination faster. However, every driver is responsible for the choices he or she makes behind the wheel, especially those that place others in danger.
Your options after an accident
After a car accident, you may be wondering what happened and who could be to blame for what you experienced. It is possible that another driver’s reckless actions led to your harm, which means you have grounds to pursue compensation through a civil claim. A complete assessment of your case can help you understand the legal options available to you, which may include moving forward with a personal injury lawsuit.