National Public Radio recently reported on a new study that claims to have found a solution to reduce speeding on our nation’s roadways. The study focused on previous flawed attempts, including flashing signs letting the driver know that they were speeding and what their speed was, using cops to issue speeding tickets and setting up hidden cameras to catch speedsters when they least expect it. In response to these failed attempts, the researchers decided to attempt a new experiment: will drivers react when they are given a positive incentive to drive within the speed limit?
According to the study, funded by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), providing positive incentives coupled with small penalties was a successful way to eliminate “egregious speed limit violations.”
The study defined egregious speed limit violations as those that were nine or more miles per hour over the speed limit. By providing drivers with a payment of $25 per month whenever they drove within the speed limit, violations plummeted.
In addition to the incentive, drivers received minimal penalties for violations. Every time a driver operated the vehicle five to eight miles above the posted limit, the prize would be reduced by three cents. If caught driving nine or more above, the reduction jumped to six cents. The speeds were monitored by placing a GPS unit within the vehicle.
Speeding Drivers Cause Accidents
The intention of the study was to help promote safe driving. Government statistics find that over 10,000 Americans are killed every year in car accidents connected to speeding.
The NHTSA considers speeding an aggressive action that can lead to reckless driving. Every driver has a duty to operate their vehicle with care, and speeding is a violation of this duty. As a result, if this action leads to an injury the driver is likely liable.
Victims may be able to receive compensation for injuries from accidents related to speeding. These awards can cover medical and rehabilitative expenses as well as pain and suffering.
Every situation is unique, and it is important to discuss your legal options with an experienced car accident attorney.
