There’s no doubt that speeding is one of the more common – and potentially deadly – driving offenses that we see on our roads. Further, the speeds themselves at which many people are driving far exceed any posted speed limits.
It’s simply a matter of physics that the faster a vehicle is traveling, the greater the impact will be if it hits another vehicle – let alone a pedestrian or bicyclist. If two speeding vehicles collide with each other, that impact is magnified.
The Tennessee Safety Office (THSO) and state and local law enforcement agencies have organized multiple campaigns (some with other states) to encourage drivers to travel more slowly and safely. Generally, these campaigns involve a larger law enforcement presence on the roads.
Fatalities are rising even though total number of crashes has dropped
Speeding and other dangerous, reckless, aggressive behavior have led to an increase in serious crashes in recent years. For example, there were more than 3,200 crashes in which people were seriously or fatally injured in 2023. This year, the total as of mid-July had already surpassed 3,000.
Interestingly, a study by Tennessee’s Integrated Traffic Analysis Network (TITAN) found that the number of total crashes “related to speeding, racing, reckless driving, or aggressive driving” decreased from over 11,700 in 2021 down to just under 10,000 statewide in 2023.
No matter how safely you drive, it can be impossible to avoid a speeding driver. Pedestrians and bicyclists have little chance of survival if struck by a speeding vehicle. If you’ve been injured or a loved one has been killed, it’s wise to get legal guidance as soon as possible to protect your right to get the maximum compensation you’re entitled to for your expenses and other damages.