To Speed or Not to Speed?

Speeding is defined as driving at an excessive speed, the maximum speed limit on most California highways being 65 mph whereas in business and residential districts, it is usually 25 mph. The same speed limit is posted in school zones when children are present while in alleys, at intersections and railroad crossings, the prima facie speed limit is 15 mph. The same is applicable for spots where visibility is very limited.

Speed limits may have been regulated by traffic laws, but there are certain people who simply cannot resist speeding. As a matter of fact, it has been reported that at any time, 50% of motorists are operating their driving vehicles above the maximum speed limit. In most cases, young and inexperienced drivers seeking thrill are the ones involved in such behavior, thus not being conscious of the possible consequences.  Apart from thrill seeking, a lot of drivers speed because they are running late or they think they are good at driving and they can speed safely.

Unfortunately, it has been estimated that speeding is the leading cause of traffic fatalities, accounting for more than 30% of all US fatal crashes. While driving at high speeds, not only is the driver's life in jeopardy as he might not be able to react in due time (average reaction time for a driver to respond to a risky situation on the road is 1.5 seconds) but also the lives of the other road users, pedestrians and two-wheeler users being the most vulnerable ones.

In order to solve the problem of speeding, responsible authorities should carry out coordinated actions focusing on reducing the number of fatal and severe injury traffic crashes. These should include measures like setting appropriate speed limits and enhancing drivers' awareness of speeding-related safety issues. Every effort should be made to make drivers obey the speed limit as compelling evidence proves that this will undoubtedly decrease the chances of a crash.

In case you get overwhelmed by the urge to step on the gas, have in mind that speed kills and try to use some of the below enlisted techniques:

• If available, set the cruise control in your car
• Listen to relaxing music which will curb your desire to drive faster
• Start out earlier so you will not need to rush
• Be aware of the fact that if you drive above the posted speed limit, your driver's license may be suspended for up to 30 days on the 1st conviction, 60 days on a 2nd conviction and 6 months on a 3rd or subsequent conviction.