The past few years has seen a significant increase in the number of motorists speeding on the road, with approximately one in three motor vehicle accidents involving a speeding driver. Motorcyclists, in particular, are at a heavy risk of getting involved in speeding-related accidents. However, experts have pointed to an unlikely culprit for this increase in speeding: the COVID-19 pandemic, which may have subtly encouraged bad driving behaviors.
Speeding Tickets Up Since Pandemic
Although the overall number of traffic tickets issued has gone down somewhat since the beginning of the pandemic, the number of speeding tickets has continued to go up. This increase in speeding has been attributed, at least in part, to the pandemic itself, which engendered certain driving habits that motorists have struggled to fight against. In particular, people became accustomed to emptier roads, where they may have felt more comfortable speeding, or else had greater trouble determining how fast they were going.
Increased Dangers for Motorcyclists
Motorcyclists, as always, are at a heightened risk of getting into motor vehicle accidents, with speeding playing a disproportionately major factor in motorcycle accidents. This has overall led to more motorcyclists getting into otherwise avoidable accidents, either as a result of their own speeding or due to another vehicle going far above the speed limit. As a general rule, the faster a motorist was going at the time of the accident, the greater the risk they will suffer permanent disability or death.
Experts Warn of Complacent Driving Behaviors
While the number of speeding tickets was already on the rise even before the pandemic, the number of people receiving speeding tickets increased dramatically. Experts warn this may be the result of complacent driving habits that people picked up during the pandemic when roads were emptier and enforcement of traffic laws was more relaxed. As a result, many drivers have maintained dangerous driving habits that place themselves and others at a higher risk of an accident.
Staying Safe on the Road
If you want to protect yourself and your loved ones from a motor vehicle accident, you should practice safe driving habits, particularly if you drive a motorcycle. This means respecting the speed limit, maintaining a safe distance from other drivers, and keeping yourself free from potential distractions that may impair your ability to effectively maintain control of your vehicle. It also means maintaining vigilance against other unsafe drivers, and keeping your distance from people who are driving recklessly on the road.
If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident or other auto accident, contact the Albany-based personal injury lawyers at Dreyer Boyajian. Our experienced attorneys are always ready to assist you, and ensure you get justice for the harm you have suffered. To schedule a free initial consultation at your convenience, give us a call at 518-463-7784 or contact us online at dreyerboyajian.com.
