Excessive Speeding Can Lead to Fatal Car Accidents

 Posted on October 31, 2018 in Car Accident

A recent two-car crash in Lakewood resulted in severe injuries to a 19-year-old driver, as well as the death of the other driver involved. While the ultimate cause of the accident is still under investigation, according to Colorado state police, “speed was a factor.” 

Every year, thousands of Americans are killed due to drivers traveling at excessive speeds. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), speeding resulted in the deaths of over 10,000 Americans throughout 2016 alone. In all, speeding accounted for 27% of traffic fatalities nationwide. If you or a loved one have been injured in a motor vehicle collision, it is likely that driver negligence was involved. 

Why Speeding Increases Risk 

We all understand the reasons behind speeding, since hectic work schedules and constant familial obligations leave most of us in a never-ending rush. Still, it is important to understand how speeding can impact one’s vehicle’s ability to operate at peak capacity. Speeding can reduce the effectiveness of safety restraint systems and limit the control one has over their vehicle’s steering and braking systems, while also increasing the ferocity of collisions. 

Here in Colorado, we are no stranger to traffic collisions. Throughout 2017, there were 642 motor vehicle fatalities across the state. This marked the highest traffic fatality rate in the state since 2004. With all that considered, it is important to know how you can increase your chances of avoiding serious injury in a motor vehicle collision.

Avoiding Auto Accidents 

The first step you can take to ensure your safety while traveling is to wear your seat belt. According to the NHTSA, as many as 15,000 lives are saved each year in the United States due to seat belt usage. Other steps you can take to ensure the safety of you and your passengers include driving at appropriate speeds and avoiding distractions while driving. 

Another driving skill you can cultivate to increase your safety is knowing how to identify dangerous or aggressive drivers. If a driver is traveling at overly high speeds, recklessly passing other vehicles, or not leaving an appropriate amount of space between their own car and other vehicles, they are displaying signs of aggressive driving. The best thing you can do while in the presence of an aggressive driver is to give them as much space as possible and maintain your own safe driving habits. 

Contact a Larimer County Motor Vehicle Accident Lawyer 

In the event of a motor vehicle collision, it is easy to feel as though you are alone. Fortunately, we are here to help. At the Hoggatt Law Office, P.C., our legal team is dedicated to helping you and your family recover from the physical, emotional, and financial impact of an automobile collision. In the aftermath of a collision, you may face expensive medical bills and repairs to your vehicle, as well as crippling stress. Hiring a quality legal team can help ensure that your family receives all the financial compensation you deserve. To set up a free consultation with a Fort Collins car accident attorney, call us today at 970-225-2190. 

Sources:

https://www.denverpost.com/2018/10/25/fatal-lakewood-two-car-crash/

https://www.nhtsa.gov/risky-driving/speeding

https://www.denverpost.com/2018/02/20/colorado-traffic-deaths-2017/