What You Need To Know About Car Accidents and Speeding
In the first quarter of 2022, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) documented 9,560 fatalities from motor vehicle accidents. This is a 7% increase in crash fatalities during the same period in 2021.
Speeding often plays a role in auto accidents. The team at the Ramey Law Firm would like to examine how excessive speed contributes to car accidents and how to hold speeding motorists accountable. If you or a loved one needs to speak with an attorney after an auto collision, we encourage you to contact our Dallas, TX, law firm for a consultation.
Car Accidents: The Dangers of Speeding
Most motorists know excessive speeds are dangerous and have many negative effects. According to the National Safety Council, speeding played a factor in 29% of all road fatalities in 2020.
The primary dangers of speeding included an increase in stopping distance, a reduced window of opportunity to react to a change on the road, and a decreased efficacy of road safety barriers.
Speeding and Poor Road/Weather Conditions
Excessive speed can increase the likelihood of an accident if there are hazardous road or weather conditions. The greater Dallas area has its share of both.
Rain, snow, and high winds can affect a vehicle’s traction and maneuverability on the road. Rain, snow, and fog can also impact visibility. Driving fast under these weather conditions increases the chances of a cingle-vehicle collision or multi-car crash.
Similarly, speeding on dangerous roads can increase the chances of a collision. It is more difficult to safely negotiate tight turns at high speeds, for instance. It is also more difficult to avoid hazards in the road or maintain traction when there is small debris on part of the road.
Ultimately, motorists should never speed when poor weather or road conditions are present.
Speeding and Reckless Driving Charges
Keep in mind that speeding could lead to reckless driving charges depending on a driver’s behavior on the road. Excessive speed, racing, and weaving in and out of traffic are all examples of speed-related reckless driving.
Determining Fault in an Auto Accident
You may assume that a speeding motorist is automatically considered liable for a collision. However, that may not be the case.
The state of Texas operates on a modified comparative negligence standard. This means that if two motorists were in a collision, each motorist may actually be at fault for a percentage of the accident. You can get compensation as long as you are not 51% at fault for an accident occurring.
How an Auto Accident Attorney Can Help
If you or a loved one were in a collision with a speeding driver, the Ramey Law Firm can help. Our personal injury attorney knows how difficult your predicament is for you and your companions. He will assess the evidence in your case and help you seek compensation for property damage, medical bills, lost wages, and any financial impact that the crash had on your life.
Schedule a Legal Consultation Today
Don’t go into a civil lawsuit on your one. You require help to overcome the complexities of Texas comparative negligence laws. Contact the Ramey Law Firm today to discuss your auto accident case. You can also call our Dallas, TX, office at (972) 437-5577.