One of the main reasons that drivers speed is because they disregard others and the law. When drivers speed, they put themselves and other people at risk. Speeding is one of the leading causes of speeding car accidents.
It is also one of the most preventable. If more drivers obeyed speeding rules, there would be fewer accidents on the road. But unfortunately, many drivers continue to speed despite the risks. The driver may be held liable for any damage caused in an accident due to reckless behavior.
If a speeding driver in Greenville caused your accident and dealt you harm, contact Upstate Personal Injury Lawyers, LLC. Request a consultation with a Greenville car accident lawyer today.
Speeding Contributes to Fatal Accidents
South Carolina’s Department of Public Safety in its 2020 Traffic Collision Factbook shares that driving too fast for conditions was the number one contributor to fatal collisions in Greenville, causing 15 fatal accidents that year. This is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to speeding car accidents.
Even non-fatal accidents will often lead to lifelong injuries and disabilities. Just over 900 other non-fatal accidents were caused by speeding in Greenville County.
Why Do Drivers Speed?
There are many reasons. Some people are in a hurry and think they can save time by driving faster. Others enjoy the feeling of speed and adrenaline that comes with it.
Whatever the reason, it’s essential to understand the risks and factors associated with speeding and traffic accidents before getting behind the wheel:
Traffic Congestion
Traffic congestion can cause drivers to become frustrated and angry, as they think other drivers are blocking their way or going too slow, leading to aggressive driving behaviors such as speeding, lane-switching, and other dangerous maneuvers.
It’s essential for drivers to be mindful of their frustration levels and take breaks when needed to remain calm and avoid aggressive driving behaviors. Drivers should also allow extra time for their journey, so they are not rushed or stressed by traffic delays.
Running Late
Many drivers feel like they have no choice but to speed to make it to their destination on time.
Drivers must remember that running late is never an excuse for endangering themselves and others on the road by speeding or driving aggressively. Other options are always available, such as leaving earlier, taking public transportation, or asking someone else for help.
Anonymity
A sense of anonymity can make drivers feel less constrained and encourage their erratic behavior. When someone feels like they can’t or won’t get seen again, it can make them feel like they can act differently than they would otherwise.
This anonymity and behavior is a concerning factor in accidents caused by those who drive in a way that puts other people at risk — as it can be significantly dangerous when combined with other factors, including alcohol or drug use.
Disregard for Others and the Law
Speeding drivers often show a disregard for the law. Like with anonymity, they may feel they can get away with breaking the law or that the law does not apply to them. And with more drivers on the road than ever, individuals driving at high speeds may believe they won’t be caught or given a ticket.
Drivers who speed may also be exhibiting rude and outrageous behavior. This sense of entitlement leads to dangerous conditions on the road.
The Speeding Law in South Carolina
According to SC ST § 56-5-1520(A), (F), drivers must drive at reasonable and prudent speeds for the road’s conditions and traffic and be aware of special hazards.
Severe traffic violations include anyone driving recklessly and exceeding the speed limit by 15 mph or more.
(See SC ST §56-1-2030(22))
How Speeding Causes Accidents
When a car is speeding, it takes longer for the driver to react and respond to environmental changes. Therefore, if a driver perceives a hazard too late, they may not have enough time to take corrective action to avoid an accident.
In addition, when a vehicle travels at high speed, there is less of an opportunity for the occupant protection equipment (such as airbags) to be effective.
Furthermore, even if the driver does manage to stop on time, the increased stopping distance due to excessive speed can lead to collisions with other vehicles or objects.
A notable consequence of speeding is that it increases crash severity. It means that it may result in more significant damage and greater injuries than if it had occurred at relatively lower speeds.
Source: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration – Speeding Overview
How To Prove Someone Was Speeding in an Accident
If you or a loved one gets involved in a speeding car accident, there are several ways to prove the fault of the other driver. The first step is to investigate and gather evidence. Evidence is crucial for building a claim and getting the compensation you may deserve.
The evidence includes:
- Police accident report: The police usually include a detailed write-up of the accident.
- Witness statements: If there were any witnesses to the accident, their comments could be constructive in proving the other driver’s negligence.
- Electronic data recorder information: Most vehicles now have an electronic data recorder (EDR) which can show the vehicle’s speed at the time of the accident.
- Crash scene: The collision scene can often provide clues about the other vehicle’s speed. For example, skid marks help determine how fast the other party was driving.
- Vehicle damage: The damage to both vehicles can also indicate the other vehicle’s speed.
- Expert witnesses: An expert witness can review all the evidence and provide an opinion as to the speed of the other vehicle.
- Cameras: There are often cameras at intersections or buildings near accidents that can show the other vehicle’s speed.
- Dashcams: Many people now have dashcams in their vehicles, which can be very helpful in proving negligence proof.
- Traffic lights: Traffic lights often have cameras that can show whether or not the other driver ran a red light or was speeding through a yellow light.
- Surveillance footage: There may be footage from businesses near the scene showing what happened leading up to the accident.
All of this evidence can be very helpful in proving that the other driver was speeding and that they were at fault for the accident. The next step is to call a reputable attorney to help you use this evidence to make a case and provide the necessary legal representation.
Hire an Experienced Car Accident Lawyer in Greenville
At Upstate Personal Injury Lawyers, LLC, we understand that victims of car accidents involving speeding have many questions and concerns about their rights and how to proceed with a case. We will work with you every step to ensure you receive a fair trial for any injuries or damages incurred.
Our highly experienced advisors focus on cases involving motor vehicle collisions caused by negligent or reckless driving. We will work tirelessly to ensure you receive proper representation for your injuries or losses. Contact our injury and traffic accident lawyers in Greenville County online to schedule a consultation.
