If you are involved in a motor vehicle collision that leaves people injured, then a thorough investigation should be carried out to determine what factors contributed to the crash.
One factor that commonly shows up is a driver going too fast for the conditions or for what is legally permitted on that stretch of road. But what is it about speeding that can make it more likely that someone crashes?
Less time to react and for the vehicle to respond
No driver can react instantaneously. There is always a delay between the driver noticing something that requires action and the driver taking action in response. This is because it takes time for the brain to process what the eyes have seen, then additional time for the brain to put the leg or hands into motion to maneuver the controls.
No vehicle can react to a driver’s commands instantaneously, either. How fast the vehicle can react will depend on the force the driver applies to the brake pedal or steering wheel. It will depend on how well-maintained the car is – bald tires, poorly adjusted steering and worn brake pads all slow reaction time down. But above all, it will depend on the speed the vehicle is traveling. The faster the vehicle is going, the longer it will take it to slow down or change course.
Unfortunately, the faster the driver is traveling, the sooner their vehicle will reach that thing they need to avoid. Drivers should not travel faster than is appropriate or legal, yet many of them do. If one of them injures you as a result, seeking legal guidance may help you to hold them responsible.