A recent study shows lax driver attitudes toward speeding are a cause for concern. Orange County motorists know that they will frequently encounter traffic delays, and this can be very frustrating. No matter road they take, they find themselves unable to move. Many of these motorists may be pressed for time, and decide to speed or practice other unsafe driving habits that increase the chances that they will be involved in an accident with another driver.
A recent study by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) took a closer look at driver attitudes toward speeding throughout the United States. In a survey of over 6,000 motorists, nearly one in five of those sampled stated they tried to get where they needed to go as fast as possible, even if this meant driving above posted speed limits. This is despite four out of five surveyed drivers saying that driving near the speed limit makes it easier to avoid being in a motor vehicle accident.
The NHTSA estimates that nearly one-third of all fatalities in traffic accidents each year can be attributed to speeding drivers. This amounts to almost 10,000 people dying in crashes due to speeding. The agency feels that many drivers are not taking the dangers of speeding seriously enough, and it is looking for ways to make roadways safer.
While the stucy shows lax driver attitudes toward speeding perhaps most concerning to officials is the large number of young drivers who are driving at limits higher than those posted. Individuals aged 16 to 20 have the most number of drivers who admit to speeding. Additionally, 11 percent of these drivers have been involved in a speeding-related accident, which is higher than any other age group.
The NHTSA has pledged to educate younger drivers on some of the dangers of speeding. The agency is kicking off a campaign that encourages parents to talk to their children who have recently received their drivers’ licenses about the problems that can happen when traveling above posted speed limits.
My name is Rivers Morrell and I have more than 40 years of experience as an injury attorney. If you have been involved in a motor vehicle accident due to lax driver attitudes toward speeding, be sure that you gather as much information as possible about the crash. Collect the insurance and contact information of the other drivers, and be sure that you know how to reach any witnesses who observed the collision. This could all be very important information should the matter end up being litigated.
After seeking medical treatment for any injuries, I invite you to review the strong recommendations of our clients and the legal industry and contact us or call 949-305-1400 to speak with me personally for a free consultation. There is no cost to you out of pocket as we work on a contingency fee basis.
