Serious accidents often stem from speeding. Exceeding the posted speed limit, racing with another vehicle or driving too fast during inclement weather conditions (such as rain, snow or ice) are major accident causes.
Factors Involved in Speeding Accidents
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) indicates that fatalities caused by speeding have decreased from 10,508 in 2010 to 9,944 in 2011 (a 5 percent drop). While that is certainly good news, the numbers are still too high. It helps to understand some of the factors that often are involved in these types of accidents.
Younger Men
One can only speculate on the reasons that young men are more likely to be involved in speeding accidents. But statistics from NHTSA show that in 2011, the age group with the highest percent of speeders were those between the ages of 15 and 20 (39 percent were men, and 24 percent were women).
Next highest were those in the age group 21 to 24 years old. Rates among men were significantly higher than women (37 percent compared to 19 percent). With each increasing age group, the percentages decreased.
Alcohol
Intoxication is another contributing factor in fatal speeding accidents. In fact, 42 percent of drivers in accidents had a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08 or higher, which is higher than the legal limit in all states. The time of day is a factor as well, with 72 percent of impaired speeders being involved in an accident between 12 a.m. and 3 a.m.
Speeding Accidents in Georgia
In 2011, Georgia had 1,223 traffic fatalities involving speeding. But it’s also a state that’s working very hard on reducing these types of crashes through its implementation of the “Super Speeder Law.”
This law requires violators not only to pay fines and fees from the jurisdiction where the offense occurred, but also an additional $200 super speeder state fee. If it’s not paid within 120 days, the offender’s driving privileges or license could be suspended. If this happens, the individual has to pay not just the $200 super speeder state fee, but also an additional $50 to reinstate his or her driving privileges or license.
To be in violation of this law, an individual would have to be convicted of driving 85 miles per hour (mph) or more on any highway/road in Georgia or driving 75 mph and faster on a two-lane highway/road.
It should be noted that any driver in Georgia who is cited for speeding 30 mph or more above the posted speed limit must make a court appearance. These violations cannot be paid online.
Car Accidents Caused by Speeding Relates to Your Specific Claim
If someone is ticketed after a speeding accident, this can be used as evidence to show the driver’s negligence. Even if it wasn’t the direct cause of the crash, more than likely it would at least be considered a contributing factor. However, many times it is the sole (or main) cause, which can help build a strong case.
Obtaining a copy of the police report will be helpful in a crash that involves speeding. It usually notes when traffic citations were issued, one way of proving the driver’s recklessness.
It’s not uncommon for car accidents caused by high speeding to result in significant or even fatal injuries. Victims or family members of a loved one who was killed should seek legal advice to learn what options may be available. Jason R. Schultz is an auto accident lawyer who is happy to review your speeding accident claim. In a serious crash, there could be more at stake than medical bills and missed time from work. Compensation could be available for other losses -- such as disability, disfigurement, mental anguish, and pain and suffering. Call the Law Office of Jason R. Schultz at 404-474-0804 or read our free eBook to inform yourself better about your situation, The Ultimate Guide to Accident Cases in Georgia – The Truth about Your Injury Case.