16 Aug How Risky Is Driving Over the Speed Limit?
We’ve all been there – we’re running late for work, to pick up our child from soccer practice, to go to a doctor’s appointment – and we’re tempted to drive over the speed limit to get to our destination faster. While it may seem harmless in the moment, speeding can have grave consequences for yourself and for other drivers. At National Auto Collision Centers, we prioritize the safety of everyone on the road, and we want to help you understand the risks associated with driving over the speed limit and know how to handle aggressive drivers you may encounter on the road.
The Risks of Speeding
Speeding is against the law, and for good reason. It is a major safety hazard and can increase your risk of getting in or causing an accident.
- Reduced Reaction Time: Speeding gives you less time to react to road hazards, unexpected actions from other drivers, or changes in traffic conditions. This can make it difficult to avoid potential accidents.
- Increased Stopping Distance: The faster you go, the longer it takes to stop. When you speed, you need a greater distance to come to a full stop, which could mean the difference between a safe stop and a collision.
- Severity of Crashes: Higher speeds mean more severe crashes, which also means more severe injuries and severe damage.
- Reduced Control: Higher speeds can reduce your control over the vehicle, making it harder to navigate bends or avoid potential obstacles.
The Consequences of Speeding
Driving even just 5 or 10 miles over the speed limit can lead to a wide range of consequences, such as:
- Legal and Financial Penalties: Getting caught speeding can lead to fines, increased insurance rates, and even license suspension.
- Accidents and Fatalities: Speed is a leading factor in road fatalities. The risk of being involved in a fatal crash doubles with every 10 mph over 50 mph that a vehicle travels.
- Community Impact: Speeding in residential areas can be dangerous for pedestrians and cyclists.
Tips for Handling Aggressive Drivers
Encountering aggressive drivers who speed can be intimidating and scary. Here are some tips for you on how to handle these situations safely:
- Stay Calm: Keep your cool and avoid responding with aggression, which will only make the situation worse.
- Keep Your Distance: Let aggressive drivers pass you and keep a safe distance to give yourself more time to react if something goes wrong.
- Do Not Engage: Avoid making eye contact or gestures that could be perceived as provocative. Focus on your driving and safety.
- Use Your Horn Sparingly: Only use your horn to make your presence known, not to scold someone for their driving.
- Report if Necessary: If you believe an aggressive driver is a danger to others, consider reporting them to the authorities once it is safe to do so.
Contact National Auto Collision Centers in Tucson Today
At National Auto Collision Centers, we want to help you get back on the road as quickly as possible. If your vehicle has been damaged in an accident because of speeding, don’t hesitate to contact our Grant Rd. location at (520) 623-4959 to schedule your repair service.