If speeding is so dangerous, then driving slowly must be extra safe, right? This may sound ridiculous, but slow drivers are actually a big problem. And the answer is “no.” Driving slower than necessary is not safe. In fact, slow drivers are a danger to others because they force those around them to make unplanned maneuvers that could lead to serious accidents.
Are slow drivers less likely to cause accidents than drivers who speed?
If you are not keeping pace with the flow of traffic, you need to stay in the far righthand lane. This should stop other drivers from becoming irritated and increase your overall safety on North Carolina roadways.
If you were injured in a North Carolina car accident that was caused by a slow driver, the North Carolina personal injury lawyers at Shapiro, Washburn & Sharp can help you gather evidence that shows the other driver’s liability. Call us today to schedule your free consultation.
What Makes Slow Drivers Dangerous?
When one vehicle approaches another traveling well under the posted speed limit, the approaching driver might have to make a split-second decision to either swerve, slam on their brakes, or make a hasty lane change, any of which could lead to a traffic collision.
Not only is it hazardous to drive too slowly but it could also lead to a North Carolina traffic violation. A single slow driver could cause multiple vehicles to become stacked up behind it. This will not only disrupt the flow of traffic, it will also prevent others from driving at a constant speed, which in turn prevents them from being able to keep a safe distance from the vehicle in front of them.
The lefthand lane is for passing, which is why slower-moving vehicles are supposed to keep to the far right. Anytime a vehicle traveling below the speed limit stays in a passing lane, they are creating a potentially hazardous situation due to other drivers trying to speed up and pass them on the right.
Be Wary of Slow Drivers
When someone is driving slowly, it is usually an indication that they are not paying attention to their surroundings. This means you need to exercise extreme caution around cars that are moving slowly because the driver is most likely distracted. A report on distracted driving published by the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration shows that distracted drivers cause over 3,000 fatal car accidents every year.
A slow-moving driver might be using their GPS, sending a text message, or searching for a particular address in an unfamiliar area. Another dangerous cause of slow driving is rubbernecking. Rubbernecking occurs when a driver slows way down to get a good look at an accident, watch police activity, or observe another event that is taking place near the roadway.
Elderly drivers with poor sight and other physical constraints tend to be quite cautious and drive slowly as a result. It is important to always remain vigilant around slow drivers because they often have delayed reaction times, and could slow down even further if they need to merge or make a turn.
When is it Okay to Drive Slowly?
Sometimes, driving below the speed limit is necessary. For example, when driving through a work zone or in an area with hazardous road conditions, all drivers should be reducing their speed. Driving slowly in these conditions will ensure you have time to react appropriately should you encounter an obstacle in the roadway or need to brake suddenly.
Other conditions under which slow driving may be appropriate include:
- Inclement weather such as when it is raining, icy, foggy, or snowing
- When you are near railroad tracks
- When animals or children are clearly present
- Near crosswalks, school busses, and school zones
- When there is an obstacle the roadway
Did a Slow Driver Cause Your Car Accident?
If your injuries were caused by another driver’s negligence, you should not be responsible for paying your own medical bills and other collision-related expenses.
If you were injured in a traffic collision and need help collecting the financial compensation you are owed, it is in your best interest to speak with an experienced North Carolina car accident lawyer from Shapiro, Washburn & Sharp. Call us at (833) 997-1774 for the guidance and advice you need to see a successful resolution to your North Carolina personal injury claim.