When a driver is operating a vehicle, he or she is responsible for following the rules of the road and avoiding behaviors that could compromise the safety of others. This means avoiding speeding, reckless driving and other things that could lead to a higher chance of an accident. Speeding is a common form of reckless driving, and while many people do drive over the posted speed limit, most underestimate the potential risks they are taking by driving too fast.
Speeding not only increases the chance of an accident, but it can also increase the severity of any crash-related consequences one may experience. If you are the victim of an accident caused by a driver who was going over the speed limit, there are legal options available to you. The civil justice system provides the opportunity to seek compensation and hold responsible parties accountable for what happened to you.
Speeding facts you may not know
Extensive data from car accidents indicate that speeding may increase the chance of an accident far more than many drivers realize. Experts say that, for every 10 miles per hour over the posted speed limit a driver is going, the risk of dying in a motor vehicle accident doubles. Consider these other facts about speeding and how it contributes to car accidents:
- Speeding makes it more difficult to safely drive around curves and take corners without losing control.
- Speeding can make safety equipment less effective, meaning a seatbelt may not be as effective in a crash if one or both vehicles are speeding.
- Speeding can make it more likely that injuries suffered in a crash will be severe, and it can increase the likelihood of fatal injuries.
- Speeding diminishes a driver’s reaction time as it reduces the amount of time a driver has to react to a hazard.
Like other types of reckless driving, there is no excuse for speeding. Each driver is responsible for the choices he or she makes while behind the wheel.
Your rights as a victim
If you are suffering because a driver chose to speed, causing an accident that left you injured, you have rights. You could have grounds to pursue compensation and recovery through a claim filed in the Texas civil justice system. If you are unsure of the best way to move forward with this process, you may benefit from seeking an assessment regarding your specific legal options.
