Texas Asks Drivers To Slow Down, As Speed Is Number One Cause Of Crashes

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The Texas Department of Transportation is imploring drivers in the state to slow down, and is reminding them that speed is the number one factor contributing to roadway crashes in the state.

The department is partnering with state law enforcement officials as part of its “Be Safe. Drive Smart.” campaign. TxDOT writes that speed was linked to one third of all roadway crashes in Texas last year. That means that excessive speeds played a role in more than 162,000 accidents in 2022, resulting in 1,469 fatalities. These figures come as roadway deaths across America are at historically high levels.

“Getting to your destination two or three minutes faster just isn’t worth the risk of a crash and causing harm to yourself or others,” said TxDOT Executive Director Marc Williams. “Motorists who observe the speed limit and match their driving to road and weather conditions can help prevent crashes.”

Read: The First Quarter Of 2022 Was The Deadliest In 20 Years On America’s Roads

As part of the “Be Smart. Drive Safe.” campaign, TxDOT is reminding drivers that excessive speed does not always mean driving above the posted speed limit. It asks drivers to match their driving to the road conditions, whether that is driving through a work zone or in bad weather.

It also asks drivers to allow more distance to the car ahead when traffic is heavier, to give themselves more time for braking. Finally, drivers should keep an eye out for signs warning them that the speed limit will soon change.

Higher speeds may contribute to increased accidents, even in cases where the speed limit allows them. The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety recently found that higher limits do little to hurry traffic, and may lead to more crashes.

TxDOT’s new road safety initiative is part of the #EndTheStreakTX campaign, and seeks to encourage drivers to stop the nearly 23-year-long streak of deaths on Texas roads. The last deathless day in the state was November 7, 2000.