There are many types of drivers on the roads and not all of them drive safely. The roads are getting busier and busier all the time. It has never been more crucial to avoid speeding, keep your eyes on the road and follow the rules to ensure your safety and the safety of other road users.
When drivers are behind the wheel, circumstances can change in seconds. They may think they are in control but traveling at a high speed could have tragic consequences. Here are five good reasons to avoid speeding.
- Prevent severe injuries and save lives
Speeding is one of the main causes of traffic accidents. It decreases the reaction time of a driver and drivers need to be able to make split-second decisions. Research indicates that even slight speed increases can affect the extent of the injuries suffered in a crash.
The human body is not designed to suffer impact at a high speed. This can often result in serious injuries, such as head or spinal injuries, or fatalities. Even less serious accidents can result in massive financial complications and lawsuits.
Settling an accident claim is possible without the help of a lawyer, according to Joe Stephens Law in Houston, Texas. However, the help of a qualified, experienced lawyer in event of a severe accident can help victims to obtain the compensation.
- Save money
The amount of fuel you use is proportional to the speed at which you drive. When you are on the road, driving at the speed limit instead of speeding will reduce your fuel consumption.
Driving safely can also reduce your car insurance premiums, especially if you have a tracker fitted to the car that determines how you drive and sends the data to the insurance company. Even if the insurance company does not user trackers, you can help keep your premiums low by not speeding which can help to reduce claims.
- Reduce wear and tear on a vehicle
Speed has a big impact on wear and tear on a vehicle, from the moment the car is started to the moment brakes are engaged. It is much kinder to a vehicle to wait for the engine to warm up and start driving slowly than roaring off before it has even warmed up. Sudden braking and cornering at a speed can take its toll on tires.
Making sure tires are properly inflated, getting regular oil changes, adjusting mirrors and other actions to take care of a vehicle can help to prevent an accident.
- Set a good example
When you are not speeding, you are more likely to be able to react safely to potential hazards. Setting a good example of driving safely can have an influence on the passengers in your vehicle.
For example, if you have teenage children, you will not want them to speed when they drive. If they see you speeding, this does not help to instill good habits in them. They can learn a great deal from the way you drive and your actions on the road.
- Avoid legal consequences
The legal consequences of speeding while driving can be severe and most people don’t think about the penalties they may face when getting behind the wheel. A driver caught speeding may face a hefty fine.
Drivers may also incur points on a driver’s license. Texas, for example, has a points system where points are added to a license every time a driver commits a moving violation. Some traffic violations, such as driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, can result in the suspension of a license.