Speeding is a common cause of pedestrian injuries. Sadly, it can lead to devastating consequences for those involved.
Drivers and pedestrians must understand the connection between high speeds and pedestrian injuries.
Speeding risks
When a vehicle is traveling at a high speed, the likelihood of a pedestrian accident occurring and resulting in injury is significantly increased. Speeding reduces the driver’s reaction time and ability to stop quickly. This makes it more challenging to avoid collisions with pedestrians who may be crossing the road or walking along the sidewalk.
Pedestrian injuries caused by speeding vehicles can range from minor cuts and bruises to more severe and life-threatening conditions. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that over the course of 2022, over 67,000 pedestrians suffered injuries in accidents.
Devastating injuries
The impact of a collision can cause fractures in the arms, legs, ribs or pelvis. When a pedestrian is struck by a vehicle traveling at high speed, the force of the impact can lead to traumatic brain injuries, concussions and other head injuries. These may have lasting effects on cognitive function and overall well-being. Internal injuries, such as damage to organs and internal bleeding, can also occur in pedestrian accidents involving speeding vehicles. Spinal cord damage can affect the individual’s ability to move, walk or perform daily tasks independently.
To prevent pedestrian injuries caused by speeding, drivers must adhere to speed limits, remain attentive behind the wheel and yield to pedestrians at crosswalks and intersections. Pedestrians should also exercise caution when crossing the road and make themselves visible to drivers, especially in low-light conditions. Drivers should slow down to save lives and prevent the devastating effects of pedestrian injuries caused by speeding.