How does increased speed affect road safety?

Increased speed significantly raises both the likelihood of accidents and the severity of injuries sustained in those accidents. When vehicles travel at higher speeds, the distance required to stop increases, and the time available for drivers to react to sudden changes in traffic conditions is reduced. This means that at higher speeds, drivers may not be able to respond in time to avoid a collision, thus increasing the chances of an accident occurring.

Additionally, if an accident does occur at higher speeds, the impact is greater due to the higher kinetic energy involved, which typically results in more severe injuries to all parties involved, including pedestrians. The statistics and research consistently support the view that speed is a critical factor in both the frequency and the seriousness of traffic incidents. Therefore, understanding the relationship between speed and road safety is essential for promoting safer driving practices and regulations.