A major cause of fatal crashes is:
Answers
Inappropriately honking a horn.
Driving too fast for conditions.
Following a large vehicle.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is: Driving too fast for conditions.
Driving too fast for conditions is a major cause of fatal crashes because it directly impairs a driver’s ability to respond to unexpected situations. Conditions such as rain, snow, fog, icy roads, or even heavy traffic require drivers to adjust their speed to maintain control of their vehicle and to stop safely in case of an emergency. When drivers do not adjust their speed to suit the current road and weather conditions, they increase the risk of losing control, skidding, or being unable to react in time to avoid an accident.
Excessive speed reduces the amount of time a driver has to recognize a hazard and make an appropriate decision. It also increases the distance needed to stop the vehicle, especially on wet or slippery roads. On dry roads, it may take around 120 to 140 feet for a car traveling at 60 mph to come to a full stop. On icy or wet roads, that distance can increase significantly, making it much more difficult to avoid collisions or hazards.
In addition to impaired reaction times and stopping distance, driving too fast for conditions also increases the severity of crashes. High-speed crashes are much more likely to result in severe injuries or fatalities, as the energy involved in a crash increases exponentially with speed. The higher the speed, the greater the impact force, which can result in more serious outcomes for all individuals involved.
To prevent such crashes, drivers should always adjust their speed based on the road, weather, and traffic conditions. This practice ensures better control of the vehicle, shorter stopping distances, and a greater ability to react to hazards. It is also important to maintain a safe distance from other vehicles and to avoid distractions, as both of these factors contribute to the likelihood of fatal accidents when combined with excessive speed.