In Florida, speeding-related crashes are a significant concern. According to the 2023 Florida Traffic Crash Facts report, there were 10,922 speeding-related crashes in the Sunshine State. These crashes resulted in numerous injuries and fatalities, highlighting the serious consequences of driving too fast.
Common risks of speeding
As we learned when getting our driving permits, speeding poses several risks that can lead to accidents, injuries and deaths. Here are some of the most common dangers associated with speeding:
- Loss of vehicle control: Speeding makes it harder to control the vehicle, especially around curves or during sudden maneuvers.
- Reduced effectiveness of safety equipment: Seat belts and airbags are less effective at higher speeds.
- Increased stopping distance: The faster a vehicle moves, the longer it takes to stop, increasing the likelihood of collisions.
- Greater crash severity: Higher speeds result in more forceful impacts, leading to more severe injuries and fatalities.
- Economic costs: Speeding-related crashes can lead to significant financial burdens due to medical expenses, property damage, and lost productivity.
Along with exceeding speed limits on highways, speeding includes going too fast on local or surface roads and driving too fast for road conditions.
Holding speeding drivers accountable
In Florida, victims of speeding-related accidents or their families can hold reckless drivers accountable through various means. One option is to seek a fair insurance settlement. This involves negotiating with the at-fault driver’s insurance company to cover medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering and other damages. If the two sides cannot reach a fair settlement, victims can file a lawsuit and take the case to court. In court, they must prove that the speeding driver was negligent and that this negligence caused the accident and resulting injuries or death.
Get the help you need
If you or a loved one has been injured in a speeding-related accident, it is crucial to seek medical help if necessary. Documenting the details of the crash, writing down what happened, and getting the contact information of any eyewitnesses can also help with an insurance claim or lawsuit.
An experienced car accident attorney can guide victims and families through the legal process, help gather evidence and negotiate with insurance companies on the client’s behalf. They can also represent you in court if necessary, ensuring that you receive the compensation you deserve. Finally, it’s also important to note that injury attorneys work on contingency, which means they are paid only when they win the client’s case.