When driving in Reno, you might question whether it’s safer to match the speed of surrounding vehicles or adhere strictly to the posted speed limits. Legally, you must follow the posted speed limit, even if other cars around you are speeding. These boundaries are set for a reason—they’re designed to maximize safety based on road conditions, traffic patterns, and accident data. While it can feel tempting to keep up with faster-moving vehicles, obeying the limit is always the safest and most responsible choice. At Kidwell & Gallagher Car Accident Lawyers, we help drivers in Reno understand their legal rights and responsibilities, especially when accidents happen.
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This term refers to vehicles’ average velocity on a specific roadway, regardless of the designated speed limitations. Traffic may sometimes exceed these limits on certain highways, such as I-580 or U.S. 395. Many drivers may feel pressured to match the pace of surrounding vehicles; however, conforming to the flow does not justify violations. According to the Federal Highway Administration, these restrictions are implemented to ensure the safety of all road users. They are determined based on roadway design, traffic volume, and accident statistics, promoting a safer driving environment for everyone involved.
Following the general traffic rate rather than the designated speed can elevate the risk of accidents. When drivers exceed recommended limits, their reaction times decrease, increasing the likelihood of collisions. In Reno, motorists who drive faster to keep up with surrounding vehicles face a higher chance of serious accidents. Prioritizing adherence to regulations is crucial for minimizing risks and protecting yourself and others on the road.
Key dangers associated with excessive velocity include:
In Nevada, these actions carries significant penalties, even if you are simply keeping up with the flow of traffic. Depending on the severity of the violation, you could face:
These side effects can impact not only your finances but also your long-term driving record. The Defensive Driving guide emphasizes that excessive velocity is a primary factor in many fatal crashes, highlighting the importance of adhering to posted regulations consistently.
Consider these tips to avoid charges and stay safe on Reno’s roads:
If you’ve been injured in an accident due to speeding, don’t hesitate to contact Kidwell & Gallagher Injury Lawyers. We’re here to provide you with professional legal support and help you navigate the process smoothly.
Craig W. Kidwell is the managing partner of Kidwell & Gallagher, Ltd., and exclusively represents injured workers in Nevada. Mr. Kidwell has been practicing workers’ compensation law in Nevada since 1999 and has acted as lead counsel on over 2,000 contested workers’ compensation claims. Mr. Kidwell represents injured workers in Nevada through all stages of Nevada’s complex worker’s compensation system. Craig regularly appears in all levels of Nevada’s administrative workers’ compensation system and has represented injured workers in Nevada’s districts and Supreme Court.
This page has been written, edited, and reviewed by a team of legal writers following our comprehensive editorial guidelines. This page was approved by Managing Partner, Craig W. Kidwell who has more than 20 years of legal experience as a personal injury attorney.