The roads in and around Richmond pose certain risks even at the best of times. Often, during certain hours, there are more vehicles on the road, which increases the chances of accidents occurring.
Frequently, people have deadlines to adhere to, such as getting to work on time or collecting the children. In such circumstances, it can be tempting to drive faster and road users may even break the speed limit without noticing. Speeding presents certain dangers that increase the risk of injury. Outlined below are some of the key facts about driving over the speed limit.
Speeding increases stopping distance
Research suggests that doubling your speed can result in a stopping distance that is three times higher. For example, a car traveling at 30 mph would typically travel around 110 feet before coming to a standstill. Whereas a vehicle moving at 60 mph could take up to 300 feet to stop. Consequently, both the likelihood of an accident increases as well as any damage or injury that results if a collision occurs.
Speeding encourages other bad driving practices
Studies indicate that a driver who is willing to type one type of risk is more likely to engage in further risky behavior. For example, research carried out by NHTSA found that drivers who broke the speed limit were less likely to utilize a seat belt. Importantly, the same study found that over half of U.S. driving fatalities involving speeding had also not been wearing seatbelts.
Understanding the potential dangers of driving over the speed limit could be in your best interests. As a road user in Kentucky, you have legal options in the event that you have been injured in a road traffic accident.