Speeding

Speeding is one of the most common causes of fatal car accidents. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 9,717 people in the United States were killed in speeding-related crashes in 2017. Those who have been injured or lost loved one due to someone else’s reckless driving may be entitled to compensation. Most people are aware that speeding is dangerous. However, in 2017, speeding was a contributing factor in nearly one-fourth of all traffic fatalities. An NHTSA report reveals that there are various reasons why drivers speed, including:

  • Attitudes and Beliefs: According to the NHTSA study, drivers’ attitudes and beliefs regarding how people close to them would feel about them speeding and other safety concerns influence their likelihood of speeding.
  • Bad Driving Habits: Drivers who make other driving mistakes or lack driving skills are more likely to speed; 49 percent of speeding drivers involved in fatal crashes were not wearing seat belts.
  • Distractions: Cell phones, infotainment systems, and other distractions may take drivers’ attention away from the road, causing them to speed inadvertently.
  • Keeping Up with Traffic: A common reason drivers give for speeding is that they were keeping up with the flow of traffic.
  • Road Rage: When drivers become angry with others on the road, it can lead to hostile behaviors, such as speeding.
  • Running Late: Drivers who are running late to their destination are more likely to speed.
  • Traffic Congestion: Many people become frustrated when they get caught in traffic; sometimes, it causes them to speed or engage in other reckless behaviors.

Speeding is a Contributing Factor in Many Car Accidents

The NHTSA estimates that three million people are killed in car accidents each year, many of which are caused by speeding, in addition to other dangerous behaviors. Some common causes of speeding include:

  • Auto defects
  • Distracted driving
  • Drowsy driving
  • Drunk/drugged driving
  • Emergencies
  • Unsafe road conditions
  • Adverse weather
  • Inexperienced drivers
  • Lack of visibility
  • Reckless driving

Common Injuries in Speeding-Related Car Accidents

Speed is not only a contributing factor but also an aggravating factor in many car accidents. Typically, the higher the speed, the greater the injury. Some common injuries from speeding accidents include:

  • Amputations
  • Broken bones
  • Burns
  • Concussions
  • Cuts and lacerations
  • Fatal injuries
  • Internal injuries
  • Skull fractures
  • Spinal cord damage
  • Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
  • Whiplash

Compensation for Car Accident Injuries

Drivers who suffer severe injuries may be able to obtain damages from the driver who caused their accident. However, because DC follows the contributory negligence rule, those who were even one percent at fault for their accident are barred from recovery. There are also other legal requirements and deadlines that claimants must follow to protect the viability of their claim; therefore, it is advisable to seek the counsel of a qualified local attorney as soon as possible.

Tips for Dealing with Speeding Drivers

The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety cites aggressive driving as a threat to the safety of everyone on the road. AAA, along with the NHTSA, provides several strategies for dealing with aggressive drivers, including:

  • Allow them to pass
  • Avoid making eye contact
  • Call the police to report harassment
  • Do not pull over and engage
  • Leave space between vehicles

DC Car Accident Lawyers at the Law Offices of Duane O. King Obtain Compensation for Victims Injured by Speeding Drivers

If you were injured or you lost a loved one in a speeding accident, contact a DC car accident lawyer at the Law Offices of Duane O. King. Our skilled and compassionate attorneys can help you pursue the maximum damages in your case. Located in Washington, DC, we represent clients throughout DC and Maryland. Please complete our online contact form or call us at 202-331-1963 for a free consultation.

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