Speeding is a complex issue throughout California and the rest of the United States, accounting for a large percentage of injury-causing and fatal accidents each year. Salinas, California is no stranger to speeding accidents and the havoc they can wreak on others. In 2022, the Transportation Injury Mapping System (TIMS) concluded that 82 accidents stemmed from speeding. Out of these collisions, a total of 119 people sustained injuries.
At Maison Law, our attorneys offer representation to victims of Salinas car accidents and those throughout Central California. We understand the devastation you may feel regarding a car accident, especially one that has caused immense injuries and damages. We will provide you with the resources that you and your family need at this time. Please contact a Salinas car accident lawyer today for more information.
Consequences of Speeding in Salinas
There are more consequences of speeding than just receiving a speeding ticket if a police officer catches you engaging in this behavior. Speeding is the cause of many injuries and fatalities in Salinas and beyond yearly. Some of the consequences of traveling over the speed limit include:
- Losing control of your vehicle when it becomes more difficult to handle
- Reducing the effectiveness of your airbags in the event of an accident
- Less time to react to events that occur on the road
- Increasing the chance of a severe accident
- Increased likelihood of higher damages
When a driver is aggravated by traffic or is trying to get somewhere quickly because they are late, they could choose to travel well beyond the speed limit. Even thinking “I’ll just do this once” is enough of a chance to cause a severe and life-altering accident that can impact the lives of others.
Many cities in California have taken measures to stop speeding in its tracks over the years. In October of 2023, AB 645 was signed into law that would allow several major California cities to use speed cameras to catch speeding drivers. This, and many other laws, work to protect drivers from speeding-related accidents each year. However, some of these accidents continue to occur and tragically take lives or leave victims injured.
Speed-Related Accidents in Salinas Tend to Result in Catastrophic Injuries
Over the years, research has found that there is a huge correlation between the speed in which a vehicle was traveling and the injuries or fatalities that resulted from an accident. In fact, the World Health Organization discovered that there was a 10% higher chance that injuries could result from a car accident with just a 5% increase in speed from a driver.
When a driver is traveling at high speeds, the force of the collision can be greatly increased. On top of this, airbags might not be as effective in the event of an accident that occurs at high speeds. This means that a victim could sustain severe injuries, such as the following in the blink of an eye:
- Spinal cord injuries/Paralysis
- Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
- Internal organ damage or bleeding
- Neck or back injuries
- Fractures
Many families also suffer the loss of loved ones in Salinas and throughout California every year due to speed-related accidents. Injured victims and families have many options for recovery after being hurt in one of these accidents due to the negligence of another driver.
Damages in Speeding Accidents in Salinas
If you can show that another party was speeding at the time of an accident that caused you harm, you may be eligible to bring a claim against this party for damages. The damages that result from a speeding accident can be extensive, which include the following:
- Medical bills of the past, present, and future
- Lost income and future lost earnings
- Pain and suffering
- Therapy-related costs
- Loss of quality of life
- Wrongful death damages if a fatality resulted
Proving that somebody is liable for your car accident is not always easy to do. Luckily, when a driver was speeding, you may be able to obtain useful witness statements and police records showing what happened. This can support your claim and make you more likely to find success in your personal injury claim.
Prevention of Speeding Accidents in Salinas
Learning how to prevent speeding accidents can ensure that lives are saved every year in Salinas and beyond. Here are some steps to prevent accidents caused by speeding:
- Obey the traffic laws, including the posted speed in all areas.
- Stay focused on the road around you, which can help you follow the speed limit.
- Give yourself plenty of time to make it to your destination, which means leaving early at times.
- Always keep an eye on what speed you are traveling at.
- Do not let others influence your speed while driving.
Speeding is dangerous and can easily result in fines and increases in your insurance. This is why it is important to always obey the law so that these adverse effects can be prevented.
Contact a Salinas Car Accident Lawyer
After a car accident caused by a speeding driver, it is natural to question where you can turn for your recovery. The law is on your side when it comes to these negligent accidents. Speaking with a Salinas car accident lawyer who is well-versed in California accident laws can put you on the right path toward financial recovery.
At Maison Law, our attorneys are prepared to stand by your side and fight to protect your rights after an accident. We will negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf and help you abide by deadlines that are required of you. You should not have to worry about any upfront fees as you endure these difficult times. Please contact us today for a free and completely confidential case consultation.
