DEARBORN (WWJ) While speeding remains a leading factor in deadly crashes, many drivers now consider it acceptable.
That’s according to a new study by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety. Of the drivers surveyed, nearly half said it’s safer to drive with the flow of traffic rather than to obey the speed limit.
30% of drivers called speeding “the norm” and said “no one actually drives the speed limit.”
Meanwhile, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said speeding was a factor in nearly 30% of fatal crashes in 2024.
"Too many drivers have convinced themselves that speeding is just part of driving," said Adrienne Woodland, spokeswoman for AAA – The Auto Club Group. "The reality is that crashes don't care what's considered normal. The faster you're going, the less time you have to avoid a dangerous situation.”
The study revealed that the biggest reason why drivers choose to slow down is to avoid getting a ticket (79%), while avoiding getting into a crash comes in second (72%).
Drivers speed to get around slower drivers (31%) and to reach their destination faster (25%). Other reasons included: not wanting to hold up traffic, and not expecting any enforcement until they’re at least 10-12 miles over the speed limit.
On the other hand, the study found nearly 90% of drivers support increased enforcement in areas with a history of speed-related crashes.
