What percentage of all fatal crashes in 2016 involved speeding as a contributing factor?

In 2016, 27% of all fatal crashes involved speeding as a contributing factor. This statistic highlights the significant role that excessive speed plays in traffic accidents that result in fatalities. Speeding reduces a driver's ability to steer safely around curves or objects in the roadway, extends the distance necessary to stop a vehicle, and decreases the effectiveness of seat belts and other safety measures in reducing crash injury severity.

This percentage illustrates the importance of adhering to speed limits, as they are established considering various factors, including road conditions, the presence of pedestrians, and the type of vehicles that commonly use the roadway. By understanding the connection between speeding and fatal crashes, drivers can appreciate the necessity of driving within safe limits to enhance their safety and that of others on the road.