According to a report from WSB-TV 2, one person has been killed and three more have been seriously injured after a major crash on an Atlanta area highway. Law enforcement officers told reporters that the crash occurred shortly after 7:30 AM on the morning of November 22nd on I-75 SB, near West Paces Ferry Road.
Based on a preliminary investigation, police believe that speeding was the primary cause of the accident. Unfortunately, many people are severely injured or killed on U.S. highways due to speeding each year. Speeding is negligence and these accidents are avoidable. Here, our Atlanta auto accident lawyers discuss the dangers of speeding.
Speeding is the Leading Causal Factor in 25 Percent of Deadly Car Accidents
Speeding is one of the leading causes of catastrophic accidents in the United States. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 9,478 people were killed in speed-related collisions in 2019 alone. For reference, this means that approximately one-quarter of all fatal crashes nationwide are caused by speeding.
Why is Speeding So Dangerous?
Though it may not always feel that way, highway speed limits exist for a reason. They are the fastest speeds at which highway safety officials believe that a roadway can be traveled at without creating unreasonable risk. Speeding is about more than just violating a traffic law. It creates risk for the driver, their passengers, and everyone else on our near the road. Here are three main reasons why speeding is so dangerous:
- Speeding drivers are more likely to lose control of their vehicle;
- Speeding drivers need additional distance to come to a safe stop; and
- Speeding drivers will be involved in a more serious accident, if one occurs.
Motorists Must Obey the Speed Limit: Speeding is Negligence
All drivers have a legal responsibility to obey the posted speed limit. A speeding driver faces the risk of a traffic citation. While it is unlikely that you will be stopped for going two to three miles per hour over the posted speed limit, you are much more likely to get a ticket at higher rates of speeding. Further, should a crash occur, a driver who was speeding may be liable for the resulting damages. If you were involved in a crash with a speeding driver, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Vehicle repairs;
- Emergency room care;
- Medical expenses;
- Lost wages;
- Pain and suffering;
- Disfigurement;
- Disability; and
- Wrongful death of a family member.
Schedule a Free Consultation With an Atlanta, GA Auto Accident Attorney
At Stewart Miller Simmons Trial Attorneys, our Atlanta car accident lawyers are standing by, ready to fight aggressively to help you get justice. If you or your loved one was hurt in a crash with a speeding motorist, we can help. Reach out to us by phone at (404) 529-3476 or send us a direct message for your free consultation. We represent car accident victims in Atlanta, Fulton County, DeKalb County, and throughout the region