Speeding drivers have become a growing threat to public safety

With the statewide shutdown brought about by COVID-19, New York's roads have gone from bustling to barren. With fewer cars on the road, more drivers may be inclined to drive at dangerous speeds, according to City Metric.

Some New York City residents have likened the roads to a NASCAR race.

According to New York Daily News, a speed-related crash in the Bronx in late April left a driver and passenger dead. Another passenger was severely injured. The crash occurred in the early morning hours when the driver reportedly crashed into a pillar under the Bruckner Expressway at a high speed.

How does lack of traffic congestion contribute to speeding?

Traffic congestion is often a contributor to collisions. When cars, trucks, bicyclists, and pedestrians share the same road, it only takes one error in judgment to cause a catastrophe.

According to the NYPD, collisions have dropped by about 54 percent between March 8 - April 5. The crashes that do occur on NYC roads are far more likely to be serious or fatal due to an increase in speeding.

Within the first 10 weekdays of the New York "State On Pause" order issued on March 22, speeding citations triggered by school zone cameras across NYC have gone up 57 percent. In addition, six drivers and motorcyclists were killed on NYC roads from March 2 - April 9.

Why speeding results in fatal crashes

We all know that speeding is dangerous, yet many drivers believe they can get away with it. Drivers often speed for these reasons:

• Running late
• Stressed out or angry
• Distracted and not paying attention to posted speed limits
• Speeding for the thrill of it or drag racing

Nobody can predict which obstacles they will face on the road. When drivers travel at dangerous speeds:

• They have less time to react to obstacles in the road.
• They need more time and distance to stop to avoid a crash.
• They're unable to maintain control of their cars.
• The front end of their cars no longer absorb the impact of a crash.
• Seatbelts and airbags are no longer effective.

What should I do if I was hurt in a crash caused by a speeding driver?

There is no excuse for speeding. Drivers who are running late for work or their doctor's appointment are responsible for allowing themselves enough time to get to their destinations. Drivers who speed for other reasons are responsible for acknowledging their safety and the safety of others.

If you were hurt in a crash caused by a speeder, you have the right to pursue compensation. You could be compensated for medical expenses, lost wages, pain, suffering, and damages pertaining to the loss of a loved one. An experienced car accident attorney at Giampa Law can help you build a strong case against the at-fault driver and his or her insurer.

To learn more, contact us online or call our Bronx office at (718) 665-7700. Our consultations are free and confidential.