Speeding is one of the most preventable causes of car accidents, yet it remains a common issue. When drivers choose to ignore speed limits, they compromise not only their safety but also the safety of everyone else on the road.
The increased force of impact from speeding accidents can cause catastrophic damage to vehicles and serious injuries to their occupants. The physical, emotional, and psychological toll on victims and their families can be profound and long-lasting.
If you have been involved in a speeding-related crash, the experienced York, SC car accident lawyers at Hunter | Everage are here to help you understand your rights and options. We aim to secure the justice and compensation you deserve to aid in your recovery and return to normalcy.
How Speeding Increases the Risk of Car Accidents
Speeding is a major risk factor for car accidents because it sharply reduces a driver’s ability to control the vehicle and respond to road conditions. When a driver exceeds the speed limit, their reaction time is shortened.
This means if something unexpected happens on the road—like a sudden stop in traffic or an obstacle appearing in the lane—they have less time to respond appropriately, which can lead to a collision. Cars also become more difficult to maneuver at high speeds, potentially compromising the effectiveness of protective equipment like airbags and seatbelts.
The force of impact during a collision is directly related to the speed of the vehicle at the time of the crash. Higher speeds result in more severe impacts, which in turn lead to more significant damage and more serious injuries.
Common Injuries in Speeding-Related Car Crashes
In speeding accidents, the force of impact is significantly greater, leading to more severe injuries. Common injuries in these accidents include:
1. Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)
Even with the protection of airbags and seat belts, the brain can still suffer significant trauma when jolted or hit during a crash. TBIs can vary widely, from concussions that might heal with time to severe brain damage that affects cognitive and motor functions permanently.
2. Spinal Cord Injuries
The spinal cord is critical for transmitting signals between the brain and the body. In high-speed collisions, the spinal cord can be bruised or severed, potentially leading to partial or complete paralysis. These injuries are particularly devastating and can alter a person’s life drastically, requiring long-term care and rehabilitation.
3. Fractures and Broken Bones
The force of a high-speed crash can easily break bones. Common fractures include broken ribs, arms, legs, and pelvis. These injuries can be complicated and may require surgical intervention to realign and heal properly.
4. Internal Injuries
High-speed impacts can cause internal organs to be bruised or lacerated by sheer force or by being pierced by fractured bones.
Injuries to organs like the lungs, liver, spleen, and kidneys can be life-threatening and require immediate medical intervention.
5. Cuts and Lacerations
Debris from shattered glass or torn metal can cause severe cuts or lacerations, which might result in significant blood loss or later infection if not properly treated.
Steps to Take After Being Injured in a Speeding-Related Crash
For those involved in speeding car accidents, the immediate steps to follow include the following:
- Call 911: Even if the accident seems minor, inform the dispatcher that there has been an accident, provide them with your location, and mention any injuries.
- Get a Medical Checkup: Getting a timely medical evaluation logs a record of your injuries, which is essential for any potential health claims.
- Document the Accident Scene: If you’re physically able to do so without compromising your health, take photos of the accident scene, including all vehicles involved, any visible damages, and road conditions.
- Exchange Information but Limit Conversation: Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver, but avoid discussing fault or details of the incident, as these statements can be used against you later.
- Notify Your Insurance Company: Inform your insurer about the accident. Be factual about the details, but consult with a lawyer before providing a recorded statement or accepting any settlements.
- Keep Records of Everything: Start a file for your accident-related documents. This should include medical records, receipts, a copy of the police report, correspondence with insurance companies, and any other relevant paperwork.
- Consult a Car Accident Lawyer: Contact a car accident lawyer who understands the complexities of speeding-related accidents. They can provide crucial guidance, help protect your rights, and ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries and losses.
Proving That Speeding Was a Factor in Your Accident
The first step in proving speeding is gathering evidence from the scene of the accident. This can include police reports, which typically note if any traffic laws were violated, such as speeding.
Witness statements are also invaluable; someone might have seen the other driver speeding just before the collision.
Another useful piece of evidence can be surveillance or dashcam footage. If the accident occurred near businesses or homes with security cameras, these might have captured the crucial moments leading up to the crash.
In many cases, hiring an expert in accident reconstruction can be a game-changer. These professionals can analyze the evidence and recreate the accident scene, often providing clear insights into how and why the accident occurred, with a particular focus on the role of speeding.
Legal Consequences for Speeding Drivers in South Carolina
In South Carolina, the consequences for speeding drivers can be quite severe, particularly when their actions lead to an accident.
The legal repercussions aim to deter dangerous driving behaviors and maintain road safety.
Firstly, speeding can result in monetary fines which vary depending on how far over the limit the driver was going. These fines can escalate quickly, especially in zones like schools or construction areas where the risks to others are even greater.
Additionally, speeding offenses can lead to points being added to the driver’s license. Accumulating too many points can result in license suspension. This system is designed to penalize repeat offenders more harshly and to discourage habitual speeding.
In more severe cases, especially when speeding leads to an accident causing injury or death, criminal charges such as reckless driving can be brought against the driver. These charges carry more significant penalties, including the possibility of jail time.
Contact an Experienced York, SC Car Accident Lawyer
Proving liability in speeding accidents can be complex, involving various forms of evidence and expert testimonies. This is where the role of an experienced car accident lawyer becomes indispensable. Work with our York car accident lawyer today.
If you have been impacted by a speeding accident, contact Hunter | Everage at 704-377-9157 for a free consultation to discuss your case.
Let us help you through this difficult time by advocating for your rights and working toward compensation that takes into account all your damages.