The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is urging drivers to recognize speeding as a dangerous driving behavior that poses risks to all road users. The campaign, titled “Speeding Catches Up With You,” aims to eliminate behaviors contributing to traffic-related fatalities.
In 2023, speeding was involved in 11,775 fatalities, making up 29% of the year’s traffic deaths. This marked a slight decrease from 2022 when there were 12,157 speeding-related fatalities. Speeding endangers not only the driver but also passengers, pedestrians, and bicyclists. The NHTSA emphasizes that adhering to speed limits and adjusting speed according to road conditions are essential responsibilities for drivers.
Deputy Kevin Moore explained the severe consequences of speeding: “A speeding-related crash can easily result in devastating injury or a fatality because of the intense impact on the body.” He compared it to falling from a multi-story building with each additional 10 miles per hour representing one or more stories.
Young drivers and motorcyclists are particularly at risk. In 2023, among those aged 15-20 involved in fatal crashes, 37% of male drivers and 18% of female drivers were speeding. Additionally, 36% of all motorcycle riders in fatal crashes were speeding. Riders aged 21-24 had the highest rate at 51%.
Deputy Moore urged: “We are urging everyone to commit to keeping our roads and town safe by obeying all speed limits.” He stressed that slowing down is crucial as “Speeding Catches Up With You.”
For further details, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s website.
For media inquiries about this initiative, contact the Media Information Bureau.
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