Some traffic violations, such as speeding, are illegal because they can increase crash risks. This offense is an aggression-driven practice often done for several reasons. Despite being a common traffic infraction, it is one of the top causes of fatal auto accidents.
In 2021 alone, speeding is a contributing factor to around 29% of crash deaths in the country. When drivers breach the speed limit, they endanger themselves, their passengers and others on the road, including motorists and pedestrians. A collision caused by speeding can become deadly because of the following:
- Losing control of the car because of excessive speed
- Malfunctioning car safety features and equipment
- Having inadequate stopping distance
- Increasing the crash’s severity due to greater force generated by the impact
Additionally, these factors can contribute to property damage.
Why do drivers commit speeding?
Authorities often link speeding to aggressive driving. It means drivers could go beyond speed limits intentionally because of how they feel during that moment. This type of aggression could happen because of the following:
- Severe traffic, causing irritation and anger
- Being late for an appointment or meeting
- Feeling isolated from other motorists
- Extreme bursts of emotion, leading to irrationality and disregard for others’ safety
Drivers often face grave consequences when they allow their aggression to get the better of them. Aside from endangering themselves and others, authorities could pull them over for their behavior, potentially leading to penalties based on the situation.
Managing aggression and aggressive drivers
All drivers are prone to feeling annoyed, irritated or angry behind the wheel. Sometimes, these scenarios are inevitable, but drivers should be able to manage themselves to avoid committing any dangerous maneuvers on the road.
Additionally, they should stay calm when encountering an aggressive driver. If they refuse to respond to these aggressive driving practices, they could save themselves and others from a potentially fatal collision.
