Speeding is one of the top 25 causes or car accidents nationwide. From 2004 to 2013, an average of 31 percent of traffic fatalities were speeding-related. In Illinois, the rate of speeding-related fatalities is even higher at 42 percent in 2013 alone. The typical speeding accident happens from midnight to 3 A.M., and on non-interstate, local roads. Drivers who speed are also less likely to wear seatbelts and more likely to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
Why Drivers End Up Speeding
- They are running late or in a rush to get to their destination — It’s normal to be running late for work in the morning once in a while or to want to arrive at an important event as soon as possible. However, speeding can actually delay arrival time if the driver is pulled over by law enforcement or gets into a car crash.
- They want to keep up with faster traffic — Drivers often grow impatient with slower vehicles on the road and want to speed past them. According to an NHTSA study, about 50 percent of drivers surveyed prefer to keep up with faster-moving traffic rather than stay in the slower lane, and this tendency is even higher for younger drivers under 30 (up to 69 percent).
- Speeding feels good — Excessive speeding can increase adrenaline and the feeling of excitement. About a third of drivers report enjoying the sensations accompanied by high speed. They also agree with the statement, “The faster I drive, the more alert I am.”
- They are not paying attention — Distracted driving contributes to unrestrained acceleration when the driver is preoccupied with something else or talking to passengers. They might keep their foot on the gas pedal for too long without even realizing the implications.
- They don’t believe that they will get caught or don’t think that speeding is dangerous — Some drivers engage in risky behavior on the road because they think they can get away with it. However, the repercussions of speeding can be serious. A speeding ticket on average costs $150, and a traffic conviction can lead to the suspension or revocation of a driver’s license and a significant increase in auto insurance rates. Furthermore, in Chicago, excessive speeding of 30 mph or more over the limit is considered a Class B misdemeanor offense, with a penalty of up to 6 months in prison and/or a maximum possible fine of $1,500.
How a Chicago Auto Accident Lawyer Can Help
Sadly, lives are lost every day due to speeding and reckless driving. If a driver who was speeding has injured you or someone you know, contact Staver Accident Injury Lawyers, P.C. today for legal assistance. Our experienced accident attorneys have helped many other victims like you recover financially after suffering physical injuries and mental trauma from a car crash or pedestrian collision.
Our car accident attorneys serve clients throughout the Chicago area, including Aurora, Elgin, Hinsdale, Joliet, Naperville, and Waukegan. We will take care of the legal paperwork, insurance claims, and negotiation process so that you can focus on healing. Rest assured, we charge no fees unless you win. Staver Accident Injury Lawyers, P.C. is dedicated to helping victims and families obtain the compensation that they rightfully deserve. Call us today at (312) 236-2900 to discuss your legal options.
Don’t miss this article: Top 25 Causes of Car Accidents and What You Can Do To Prevent Them. For this month of October, the Illinois attorneys at Staver Accident Injury Lawyers, P.C. will be developing a blog series breaking down these leading causes of car crashes.
