As South Dakota readers may know, speeding is one of the most common types of dangerous driving. Many drivers make the decision to go faster than the posted speed limit, yet it is a risky and unnecessarily dangerous behavior. Speeding is particularly dangerous for younger and more inexperienced drivers.
If you are the victim of an accident caused by a speeding driver, you may have the right to seek financial compensation through a civil claim. Speeding is a type of negligent driving, and with help, it is possible to hold liable parties accountable for what you experienced. Speeding may be common, but you do not have to suffer the consequences of this type of reckless behavior alone.
Why is speeding so dangerous?
Speeding can be dangerous for many reasons, even if the driver is only traveling a few miles per hour over the speed limit. According to Teens in the Driver Seat, a peer program designed to educate young people about driving safety, the following facts underline the danger and risks associated with speeding:
- Approximately 27 percent of accidents involving young drivers are speed-related.
- Speeding reduces the effectiveness of airbags, seat belts and other safety features.
- Driving too fast increases the chance a driver will experience serious injury in a crash.
- When a car is moving too fast, it can make it difficult to brake and properly perceive dangers.
- Speeding drivers are often unaware of how fast they are going and how dangerous their actions can be.
Younger drivers tend to be more reckless behind the wheel, and a high number of teen drivers do speed. However, a driver of any age can be guilty of this type of reckless driving. If speed was the reason for your accident, you have the right to hold liable parties accountable through a civil claim, regardless of the age of the driver.
What should you do after an accident?
After an accident, it is normal to feel overwhelmed and confused about what you should do next. First, it can be helpful to seek a complete evaluation of your case. This can help you understand the legal options available to you.
Like drunk driving or distracted driving, speeding is a type of preventable negligent driving. Through a personal injury claim, you may be able to recover losses associated with your accident-related losses, including medical expenses, continued health needs and more. Speeding is dangerous, and victims have the right to legal recourse after an accident.