Speeding is estimated to be the cause of approximately a third of all traffic fatalities. Traveling at high speed increases the force on vehicle occupants in the event of a crash. This is why accidents caused by speeding often result in catastrophic injuries such as brain injuries and paralysis. If you or a loved one were injured in a collision caused by a speeding driver, you may be entitled to financial compensation for your damages.
Traffic Accidents Caused by Speeding
Most people admit that they speed from time to time. However, speed limits exist for a reason, and failing to comply with posted speed limits can lead to much more than a traffic ticket. Speeding makes it harder to control the vehicle or respond to hazards in the road. It increases the amount of time it takes to stop the vehicle. Lastly, if a collision does occur, the risk of injury or death is greater if one or both vehicles were speeding. In fact, every 10 mph increase in speed doubles the chances of dying in a collision. Drivers who cause accidents because they are speeding may be liable for the victims’ medical bills, vehicle damage, and other losses.
Holding a Negligent Driver Responsible
If you were hurt or you lost a loved one due to another driver’s choice to speed, you may be able to hold the driver accountable through a personal injury claim. Per Illinois law, the driver, or more likely, the driver’s insurer, must compensate you for damages. However, getting the compensation, you are entitled to can be tricky. Insurance companies often try to deny liability or claim that the injured driver is fully or partly responsible for the collision.
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