Motor vehicle accidents are a leading cause of fatalities and injuries in the United States. Speeding is often a significant factor in these auto accidents. Speeding motor vehicles can make it difficult for other drivers to judge lane changes and turns. Auto accidents where excessive speed is involved are likely to be more severe than those where both drivers are adhering to the posted speed limit. Additionally, speeding makes it more likely a driver will lose control of a motor vehicle, which can lead to multiple vehicle accidents.
Victims of motor vehicle accidents face a wide range of consequences. If a victim survives the accident, the victim often suffers severe brain trauma. Treating severe brain trauma can entail millions of dollars in medical expenses. Both the victim and the victim’s family often feel the burden created by these costs. Additionally, severe brain trauma can leave a victim unable to function normally in both their personal life and professional life. Brain trauma can lead to numerous personality disorders, which might affect a victim’s personal relations. Victims may be physically unable to continue their employment leading to loss of wages. Even in cases where injuries are less severe than brain trauma, victims may find themselves out of work for months at a time. Thus, victims of a speeding related motor vehicle accident may be entitled to significant recovery.
The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that speeding was a contributing factor in 31 percent of all fatal crashes. These motor vehicle accidents resulted in 10,395 deaths in 2010. It is estimated that speeding-related crashes cost society $40.4 billion dollars annually.
In 2010, the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration found that 42 percent of speeding drivers involved in fatal crashes had a blood alcohol concentration of .08 grams per deciliter or higher. Also, 27 percent of speeding drivers involved in fatal crashes under the age of 21 were found to have a blood alcohol concentration of .08 grams per deciliter or higher. Additionally, the report found that 21 percent of speeding drivers involved in fatal car crashes had an invalid license at the time of the crash. Only 53 percent of drivers speeding while operating a motor vehicle under age 21 who were involved in a fatal car accident were wearing safety belts at the time of the accident. Thus, speeding can indicate other irresponsible driving habits.
If you or someone you know has been hurt or killed in a speeding related motor vehicle accident, call a Coweta County auto accident lawyer at Shane Smith Law at (980) 246-2656 and ask to schedule a free legal consultation.