Discussions about fatal motor vehicle accidents typically revolve around intoxication and distraction. However, there are many other reasons these accidents occur. One cause that has plagued American roadways since the invention of motor vehicles involves driving much too fast.
Breaking any traffic law could result in a motor vehicle accident, but speeding is often particularly dangerous. According to the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA), excessive vehicle speed still plays a role in almost one-third of all fatal motor vehicle accidents. Worsening this issue, the GHSA believes that speeding “as a traffic safety issue” does not get proper attention.
The GHSA also believes that many people view driving over the speed limit as a culturally acceptable roadway behavior. The Association’s Executive Director says that the issue of speeding needs a deep and comprehensive approach to reduce injurious and fatal automobile crashes. He pointed out that even small-scale decreases in speed could reduce the severity of crashes and injuries while also saving lives.
You may not know this, but speed-related motor vehicle accidents tend to occur on rural roadways rather than in urban areas, according to the GHSA. Pennsylvania is home to many beautiful rural roads, making this issue particularly relevant to the state’s residents.
While speeding may not get enough attention as a leading cause of motor vehicle accidents fatal or otherwise, it is a negligent activity against which victims can pursue a legal remedy. Getting the maximum amount of compensation in the wake of an accident is not just your right — it fills a practical purpose as well. Such compensation allows you to pay for needed medical care or replace lost income from the negligent death of a loved one.