What is one of the most common factors contributing to traffic crashes?

Speed is a significant factor contributing to traffic crashes because it affects the driver's ability to react to sudden changes in the driving environment. When vehicles are traveling at high speeds, the distance required to stop increases, and the force of a collision also becomes much greater. The higher the speed, the less time a driver has to process information, make decisions, and execute necessary maneuvers, increasing the likelihood of a crash.

It is important to consider how speed influences other behaviors related to road safety. While alcohol consumption, distraction from mobile devices, and fatigue can also lead to accidents, speed magnifies the effects of these factors. For instance, a distracted driver traveling at a higher speed may not react in time to avoid an obstacle, or a fatigued driver may not have the necessary response time, leading to severe consequences when speed is involved. Thus, managing and adhering to speed limits is essential for enhancing road safety and reducing the incidence of traffic accidents.