Louisville area motorists may be less concerned about speeding than historically in the past.  Speed is consistently ranked as a primary factor in car accidents, truck accidents, motorcycle crashes and other motor vehicle related injuries.  Many drivers may be pressed for time, and decide to speed or practice other unsafe driving habits that increase the chances that they will be involved in an accident resulting in a serious injury.

A recent study by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) took a closer look at driver attitudes toward speeding throughout the United States. In a survey of over 6,000 motorists, nearly one in five of those sampled stated that they tried to get where they needed to go as quickly as possible, even if this meant driving above posted speed limits. This is despite the fact that four out of five drivers in the survey believed that driving near the speed limit makes it easier to avoid being in a motor vehicle accident.

The NHTSA estimates that nearly one-third of all fatalities, and resulting wrongful death claims, in traffic accidents each year can be attributed to speeding drivers. Those who are less concerned about speeding account for almost 10,000 people dying in a motor vehicle due to speed each year. The agency feels many drivers are simply less concerned about speeding than they should be and the NHTSA is constantly looking for ways to make roadways safer.

Most concerning to officials is the large number of young drivers who are exceeding the posted speed limit. The group of drivers ranging in age from 16 to 20 represent the largest group of surveyed drivers who admit to speeding. Additionally, 11% of these drivers have been involved in a speeding-related accident, which is higher than any other age group.

The NHTSA is focused on increasing the awareness of younger drivers regarding the dangers of speeding. The agency has released a campaign that encourages parents to talk to their children who have recently received their drivers’ licenses about the problems that can happen when speeding, often as a result of distracted driving.

If you have been involved in a motor vehicle accident, be sure that you gather as much information as possible about the crash. Collect the insurance and contact information of the other drivers, and be sure that you know how to reach any witnesses who observed the collision. This could all be very important information should the matter end up being litigated.

It is always a sound idea to make sure you receive a thorough medical exam within 24 to 48 hours of any accident, even if you don’t believe you have suffered any injuries. We invite you to review the recommendations of former clients and the legal industry and contact HLH or call (866) 583-9701 to speak personally with one of our experienced personal injury attorneys for a free consultation.