It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to know how dangerous speeding is. Speed-related crashes account for roughly a quarter of all Kansas traffic fatalities. Drivers who exceed the posted speed limit have less time to stop or react to an impending crash. For instance, a speeding driver will have a difficult time avoiding a crash when highway traffic suddenly comes to a stop or when a pedestrian is crossing the street. Additionally, the faster a driver travels, the more serious the damage and injuries will be when a crash occurs.
A survey conducted by SurveyGizmo in October 2020 found that drivers still travel at dangerous speeds despite knowing the risks. The survey involved more than 1,200 drivers age 18-85 across the United States and was published on the insurance marketplace site The Zebra.
Most drivers admit to speeding
The survey concluded that 87 percent of drivers have driven too fast a few times within a year, yet 82 percent agreed that it’s risky. When asked how they felt about speeding:
- 35% of participants said that it is never acceptable to speed.
- 79% believed that it’s only unacceptable in school zones.
- 64% believed that it’s never acceptable when a child is in the car.
- 16% said they don’t speed if they feel that their safety is in jeopardy.
Not surprisingly, survey respondents didn’t consider speeding as the number one risky driving behavior. Instead, drunk driving, distracted driving, and road rage were seen as more dangerous by most respondents. In reality, speeding was ranked the most dangerous driving behavior with a crash fatality rate of 17 percent (based on crash data). That was followed by drunk driving (10 percent fatality rate), road rage (5 percent fatality rate), and distracted driving (5 percent fatality rate).
Common injuries caused by speed-related crashes
The posted speed limits we see on roads and highways are there for the safety of all road users. Yet some drivers view them as a mere inconvenience and never recognize the risks they take until they cause someone’s injury or death. Those who survive high-speed crashes often must undergo surgery and months of physical therapy. Some never make a full recovery. The most common injuries we see at Bretz & Young are:
- Serious head injuries
- Bone fractures
- Debilitating spinal injuries
- Internal organ damage
- Paralysis
- Amputations
- Long-term nerve damage
Why hire an attorney after a speed-related crash?
If you or a loved one sustained injuries in a crash caused by a speeding driver, there should be no question as to who was at fault. Unfortunately, determining fault and pursuing a claim isn’t as easy as it sounds. The story could change very quickly and evidence can disappear. Additionally, the at-fault driver’s insurance company may try to shift the blame on to you or try to offer you less money than you’re eligible for.
It’s critical that you take your case seriously from day one. Get prompt medical attention, even if you feel fine. You may learn that you sustained an injury, but didn’t feel any pain due to adrenaline and shock. Then, speak to an experienced Kansas car accident lawyer at Bretz & Young. We can help sort out your case and gather the evidence we need to prove that the other driver was at fault. We’ll also deal directly with the insurance companies and negotiate for a fair and full financial settlement.
When you hire our law firm, you can count on us to fight for the best possible outcome for you and your family. Contact us online or call us to set up your free and confidential case consultation.
