Do you always obey speed limits? If you’re like most people, probably not. At some time or another, most of us go over the speed limit. This might be accidental, when going downhill, for example. Or it might be because of a “lead foot.”

A survey by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has recently given some interesting insights into speeding in America.

The survey found that there is a disconnect between American drivers’ beliefs and practices. While 91 percent of drivers surveyed agreed that everyone should obey all speed limits, more than a quarter of those same drivers admitted that speeding is something they do “without thinking.” In fact, one in five drivers admit, “I try to get where I am going as fast as I can.”

Younger drivers, ages 16 to 20 years of age, admitted to speeding the most.

It is unfortunate that so many drivers speed without considering the consequences, because speeding is one of the most dangerous things a person can do behind the wheel.

Speeding, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, is one of the leading causes of car accidents and accident-related deaths: “Speeding-related deaths nationwide account for nearly a third of all traffic fatalities each year, taking close to 10,000 lives.”

This makes speeding as deadly as drunk driving, which also claims the lives of at least 10,000 individuals each year.

It’s time to stop regarding speed limits as guidelines rather than actual rules. When behind the wheel, make sure to obey all speed limits. Doing this will reduce your risk of a crash or—if a crash does happen—lower your risk of serious injury.

If you’ve been injured in a car crash caused by someone speeding, contact the experienced personal injury attorneys at Martinson & Beason, P.C. with your questions. We’ll tell you what your rights and options are.