Speeding 5 or 10 miles over the speed limit may not seem like a big deal, especially when it seems like the consequences for being late would be way worse than being on time because you sped a few miles more. But it is when you consider that 1 out of every 3 car accidents are considered fatal. Below you will know why speed limits exist in the first place, how speed limits are decided by government professionals, who is most at risk when you want to speed and how to prevent situations where speeding might seem like the only option and more.

Why Do Speed Limits Exist?

So why do speed limits exist in the first place and why would it be important for you to follow the speed limit anyway? Who actually cares if you go 5, 10, maybe 15 miles above the speed limit sign? Speed limits are posted throughout the country and they exist for a very important reason; your safety.

How Are Speed Limits Decided?

Local and state governments determine what is a safe speed to operate your motor vehicle and post limits accordingly. Many times, this is done by looking at the actual roadway, the topography of the roadway, whether or not there are any dangerous turns or potential hazards that affect the posted speed limit to ensure your safety while you are on the road.

Who is in Danger When You Speed?

If you exceed the posted speed limit then you are putting yourself, your passengers and all other persons out on the roadway at risk of minor or severe injuries or even potential death.

What Causes Most Motor Vehicle Accidents?

Speeding while driving increases your risk of being involved in an accident for a number of different reasons. Here are the top 7 disadvantages drivers face after deciding to speed that could potentially result in minor or severe injuries or even death:

1. Slower reaction time - If you are speeding while driving then you will reduce your reaction time when it comes to making split-second decisions;
2. Speeding at Night - The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety reported that speeding accounted for approximately 30% of all motor vehicle accident deaths. Additionally, almost 1/3 of those crash deaths occurred between 3 PM and 9 PM with most of them occurring after dark. If you are speeding after dark then you will be out driving your headlights which means that you won't have the proper amount of time to react when something unexpectedly appears in your field of vision;
3. Inexperience - Young or inexperienced drivers might not have the necessary skills to avoid getting involved in an accident while speeding;
4. Adverse Weather Conditions - Speeding will also increase the likelihood of your being involved in an accident if you are driving in adverse weather conditions which could include fog, rain, sleet or snow;
5. Distracted Driving - Speeding will also greatly increase the risk of being involved in an accident if you are engaged in distracted driving;
6. Driving Under the Influence; and
7. Driving Tired

How Can You Prevent Situations Where Speeding Might Seem Like the Only Option?

1. Leave earlier
2. Call the person who is waiting and inform them you will be a few minutes late
3. Reschedule
4. Relax before getting behind the wheel
5. Drive less
6. Call for an Uber ride

Speeding is always a preventable situation. It is not worth possibly losing a life. If you are ever in a situation where speeding may seem like the only option in order to avoid an angry person waiting for you, simply call them. They will understand when you are safe.

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