Speeding is a dangerous behavior that contributes to more than one-quarter of all traffic-related fatalities. The U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the V.I. Police Department/Office of Highway Safety urge drivers to stop speeding because “Speeding Catches Up With You,” the departments announced.
In fiscal year 2023, the territory experienced 5,084 crashes, with speeding being a common contributing factor. Speeding is dangerous for all drivers, even for the safest ones. It is important for drivers to obey posted speed limits to ensure the safety of themselves, passengers, and other road users. Additionally, motorists should reduce their speed below the speed limit when road conditions are poor., according to the press release.
There are many reasons why drivers choose to speed, such as being late, encountering traffic, or simply not caring about others. However, these are the main causes behind this dangerous behavior. Speeding reduces a driver’s ability to safely steer around other vehicles, obstacles, or unexpected curves. It also impairs a driver’s ability to make quick decisions in emergencies and increases the distance required to come to a safe stop., the press release stated.
For more information and safe driving strategies, please visit www.nhtsa.gov/risky-driving/speeding. You may also contact the V.I. Office of Highway Safety through Director Daphne O’Neal at daphne.oneal@vipd.vi.gov or via telephone at 340-714-9810 or 340-772-3025.
