According to the Missouri Highway Patrol, excessive speed is a leading cause of auto accidents in Missouri: each year, drivers traveling well in excess of the posted speed limit are responsible for car accidents that result in serious injuries and fatalities. As with many other kinds of accidents, car crashes caused by excessive speed are easily preventable: catastrophic injuries and expensive medical costs caused by these accidents can be avoided. Missouri drivers are urged to follow a few simple rules to help prevent car accidents, and keep all motorists and passengers safer on our state's highways.
- Observe and obey posted speed limits. Speeding can limit the time you have to avoid a dangerous collision.
- Pay attention. Distracted driving, often caused by cell phone use and texting, leads to a loss of focus on the road, and can be as dangerous as driving while intoxicated.
- Don't drink and drive. If you do plan to drink, appoint a designated driver.
- Don't tailgate. Following too closely reduces the time and space you need to avoid a car crash.
- Don't drive while tired. Tired driving carries many of the same risks as drunk driving, and can lead to a deadly accident.
The Highway Patrol reports that in 2012, there were 286 fatal crashes involving speed and over 6,500 speed-related crashes that resulted in personal injuries to vehicle occupants. 320 people died and 9,723 were injured in these accidents.
Safe and careful driving is the best way to prevent these senseless injuries and fatalities. By paying attention and following the rules of the road, Missouri drivers can get where they're going safely, and protect other drivers as well. Safe and careful driving can help you avoid the dangerous, careless driving of others, and help prevent car accidents, personal injury, property damage, and costly medical bills.