For many drivers, going a few miles per hour over the speed limit may not seem like a big deal. But new research from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety shows just how normalized speeding has become, and why changing that mindset could help save lives.
Three in 10 drivers surveyed agreed with the statement, “No one actually drives the speed limit.” Drivers also commonly considered traveling 10 mph over the speed limit acceptable, while nearly half believed keeping up with traffic is safer than following the posted speed limit.
Those attitudes have serious consequences. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, speeding was a factor in nearly 30% of traffic fatalities in 2024.
Why Are Drivers Speeding?
The AAA study found several common reasons drivers choose to speed:
- 31% said they speed to get around slower drivers.
- 25% said they speed to reach their destination faster.
- 21% said they speed to avoid holding up traffic.
When drivers do slow down, the most common motivations are avoiding a ticket (79%), avoiding a crash (72%) and responding to bad weather (60%).
These findings demonstrate why safe driving starts with changing the way we think about speed.
“Keeping our roadways safe is the responsibility of every driver, and making safe speed choices each time you get behind the wheel is a part of that responsibility,” said Sharon Hawkins, AAA Central Penn’s driving school manager. “With findings from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety study showing that drivers are increasingly viewing speeding as normal, AAA Central Penn encourages drivers to follow posted speed limits and choose a pace that gives you time and space to react, preventing potential crashes and keeping you, your passengers and other travelers safe on the roadway.”
5 Ways to Make Safer Speed Choices
AAA Central Penn encourages drivers to keep these safe driving tips in mind every time they get behind the wheel:
1. Follow the posted speed limit.
The speed limit is the maximum speed for the roadway, not the minimum. Don’t let the speed of surrounding traffic pressure you into driving faster.
2. Keep a safe, predictable pace.
Maintain enough space between vehicles to give yourself time to respond when something unexpected happens.
3. Adjust for road and weather conditions.
Rain, snow, ice and other conditions can affect traction and your ability to stop safely. Slow down when conditions require it.
4. Make sure you can see what’s ahead.
Visibility directly affects how much time you have to react. Adjust your speed accordingly when visibility is reduced.
5. Be aware of faster-moving traffic.
If surrounding vehicles are traveling faster while you are following the speed limit, stay in the rightmost lane when appropriate, increase your following distance and remain alert for vehicles approaching from behind.
Safe Roads Start With Each Driver
The next time it feels like everyone around you is speeding, remember that keeping up with traffic doesn’t have to mean exceeding the speed limit.
A few extra minutes on the road are worth making a choice that gives you more time and space to respond to the unexpected.
Slow down. Follow posted speed limits. And help make our roads safer for everyone.
