Speeding and reckless driving are very common on both the busy and remote roads of Texas, which unfortunately results in life-changing and tragic auto accidents in some cases. In fact, speeding was a factor in nearly a third of all fatal crashes last year, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. While many people believe that speeding is only a problem on highways, this is not the case. A large percentage of the auto accidents that involve speeding take place on rural roads and neighborhood streets.
Excessive Speeding and Auto Accidents
Reckless driving and speeding may result in criminal charges, and speeding in itself generally garners a citation and fine. However, if you were involved in an accident and the other driver was not cited for speeding or reckless driving even though they were at fault, he or she may still be held liable for damages in an accident through a civil liability case.
Once awarded a driver’s license, you are expected to obey the speed limit and all other traffic rules and regulations. When someone fails to do so, it may result in a serious car accident and that person may be held responsible for their negligence. Victims of accidents that were caused by speeding or reckless driving may file a personal injury lawsuit that will enable them to obtain compensation for their own injuries. In some cases, a wrongful death claim can be filed for the death of a family member.
Speeding is one of the leading causes of auto accident in America, especially in zones where the speed limit increases from 40 mph to 60 mph. Not only does speeding work against you because it reduces the amount of time necessary to avoid a crash, but it increases the risk of crashing and makes the accident far more severe. Simply slowing down and obeying the posted speed limits can go a long way towards making the roads through Texas and the rest of the U.S. safer.
Other Causes of Auto Accidents
Here is a look at a few of the other common causes of auto accidents:
- Driver fatigue
- Distraction
- Driver under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Aggressive driving
- Adverse weather conditions
- Distraction
If you have been involved in an accident because of the recklessness of another driver, or if you find yourself charged with a crime after an auto accident, please contact one of our attorneys. As a Texas auto accident law firm, we understand how devastating these types of accidents can be. Whether you were injured as a result of someone else’s speeding or lost a loved one in a car accident, we can help.