Speed limits are important because vehicles are less likely to collide when they are going the same speed. A speeding driver on the road is dangerous for a multitude of additional reasons.
Linked to high emotions
Some people have a tendency to speed when they feel angry or upset. The fact that they’re experiencing strong emotions makes their speeding even more dangerous. High emotions reduce your cognitive skills, which makes you more likely to get into a car accident. If you need to drive after becoming upset, take two minutes to close your eyes and focus on breathing deeply to help calm down your nervous system. It will help you think more clearly and make better decisions on the road.
Correlated with distracted driving
When you aren’t focused on the road, you may accidentally speed. This is another double whammy because distracted driving on its own is dangerous. Distracted driving is more than just texting or talking on the phone. It includes talking with passengers, eating food and adjusting the radio.
Increased stopping distance
The faster your vehicle is going, the longer it takes to stop. Conditions on the road are unpredictable. A child’s toy could suddenly fly in front of your car, or an animal could run onto the road. Another driver may change lanes without using their blinker. There are many things out of your control on the road. Car accidents are more likely to occur when someone is speeding. Larger vehicles like trucks and SUVs take even longer to stop because of their heavier weight than standard cars. They come with the additional risk of a higher rollover rate.
More severe car accidents
The severity of car accidents goes up with the speed at which you’re driving. Severe injuries and death are more likely in high-speed collisions. It also puts the other drivers and pedestrians at an increased risk of serious injury and death.