Whether they are rushing to a meeting or enjoying the thrill of a high-speed drive, many drivers succumb to the temptation of speeding every year. However, this seemingly harmless decision to exceed the speed limit can lead to severe collisions, turning minor accidents into devastating tragedies. Speeding can have a profound impact both on a motorist’s ability to drive and the force and impact of collisions, and the consequences can be significant. If you experience a collision caused by another driver’s dangerous speeding, contact a car accident attorney in Atlanta as soon as possible.
The Impact of Speeding on Your Ability to Drive
Speeding compromises a driver’s ability to navigate safely in several critical ways. When drivers choose to exceed the speed limit, they reduce their ability to adapt to road conditions and respond effectively to unexpected hazards. Speeding diminishes the driver’s reaction time, making it difficult to respond to sudden stops or changes in traffic patterns.
The control over the vehicle diminishes as speed increases and if this control is lost, severe and catastrophic collisions may occur. Furthermore, the higher the speed, the longer it takes for the vehicle to come to a complete stop after the brakes are applied. This decreased response time can be the difference between a near-miss and a severe accident.
Additionally, speeding impairs a driver’s ability to maneuver safely. Sharp turns or sudden lane changes become perilous at high speeds, as the natural balance and traction of the vehicle are compromised. High-speed driving also affects steering control, increasing the likelihood of oversteering or understeering, which can lead to loss of vehicle control.
The Impact of Speeding on the Force and Impact of Collisions
When vehicles operate at higher speeds, the force exerted during a collision increases exponentially. According to basic physics, the energy released in an accident is proportional to the speed at impact. This means that even a small increase in speed can result in a significantly more forceful and destructive crash.
Consequently, vehicles are subjected to more severe damage and the occupants experience much higher forces at high speeds, dramatically increasing the likelihood of serious injuries or fatalities. Common injuries in these collisions may include:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord damage
- Broken bones
- Internal injuries
- Whiplash
- Severe lacerations
- Burns
Moreover, vehicles that crash at higher speeds are more likely to veer off the road or into other lanes. This may cause multi-car collisions and increase the likelihood of hitting pedestrians, bicyclists, or fixed objects.
Recovering Compensation After a Speed-Related Car Accident
Speeding dramatically increases both the risk and severity of car accidents. If you are a victim of such an incident, you have the right to hold the at-fault driver accountable through an insurance claim or personal injury lawsuit. In Georgia, which is a fault-based accident state, the driver who caused the accident is financially responsible for any damages that have occurred.
Initiating an insurance claim or filing a personal injury lawsuit can seem daunting, but it is a critical step toward recovery and financial stability. A car accident attorney can provide invaluable assistance during this process. They can help navigate the complexities of legal proceedings, ensure that all relevant evidence is considered, and advocate for the maximum possible compensation on your behalf.
If you have been injured in a speed-related car accident, Monge & Associates can help. We can support you in investigating the incident, proving the speeding driver’s liability, and building a robust case in your favor. Call us today at (888) 477-0597 for a detailed evaluation of your case.