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Prominent roadway in Maryland a hotbed for speeding with impunity

On Behalf of | Mar 2, 2023 | Motor Vehicle Accidents

The roads in Maryland and Washington, D.C., have become increasingly dangerous in recent years for many reasons. One is technology: The prevalence of smartphones and onboard navigation systems has led to people being distracted behind the wheel.

Another reason is fatigue: People are busier than ever making it possible that they are driving while drowsy.

And another may be intoxication: The legalization of marijuana and more people using prescription medications has been added to alcohol causing people to drive under the influence.

While these are known problems, one of the most dangerous behaviors – speeding – has also been on the uptick. First, it started with the national health crisis, fewer people on the road and less law enforcement vigilance.

Now, it is continuing as Maryland Route 210 and its speed cameras not having the desired impact in dissuading drivers from going beyond the speed limit. When there is an accident, it is imperative to know how it happened so those who have been hurt or lost a loved one can effectively weigh their legal options.

Statistics suggest speeding drivers on Route 210 are not being cited

Statistical analysis regarding the speeding problem on Route 210 suggests that drivers moving at extreme speed are not being caught by the speed cameras stationed on the side of the road.

Last year between April and October, not one driver was caught by the cameras moving at least 90 mph. A news station’s assessment found that of all vehicles that were speeding, only 41% who were photographed received a ticket.

Safety advocates lament this lapse as drivers going at extreme speeds are the most dangerous if there is a collision due to the severity of the impact in this type of accident. Route 210 already has a bad reputation for safety and acquired the nickname “Highway of Death.”

The speed cameras took time to get approved. In general, they are used near schools and in construction zones. The Route 210 cameras have been in place since 2019. Many drivers are reducing their speeds to avoid being ticketed by the cameras. Unfortunately, as this information shows, others are not and they are not getting citations for it.

Even those who are caught by the cameras might not be dissuaded from speeding since the citations are currently only $40 and there are no points on the driver’s license meaning it does not result in higher insurance rates.

Lawmakers are currently debating whether there should be additional speed cameras and whether people who repeatedly violate the speed limits should be charged more for subsequent violations.

The aftermath of an auto accident can stoke long-term problems

People who take Route 210 or any other road in the Maryland-Washington DC area need to be aware of the possibility of an auto accident. Speeding is just one factor and the previously mentioned texting and driving, drunk driving, drowsy driving and recklessness are others.

After an accident, the injured face a litany of challenges. Those who have lost a loved one will need to think about their future without that person.

It is essential to determine how the crash happened, gather evidence and take the necessary steps to pursue justice. Seeking help is vital from the outset and this can be a key to making sure the case is properly investigated and it is possible to file a legal claim.