Five Compelling Reasons to Observe Speed Limits

In the hustle and bustle of daily life, people often find themselves in a rush to get from point A to point B. In this haste, one of the most fundamental aspects of road safety – observing the speed limits – is sometimes overlooked.

Here are five compelling reasons to adhere to speed limits:

1. Minimise Loss of Lives

When you obey speed limits and drive at a safe pace, you protect the lives of other road users and also your own. Besides, you can avoid imprisonment and an expensive civil case if you caused a crash that resulted in loss of life. 

Statistics provided by the Road Safety Unit in the Ministry of Transport and Mining show that as at October 25, there have been 331 road fatalities from 305 fatal collisions.

2. Reduced Severity of Crashes

Not only does obeying speed limits decrease the likelihood of crashes, it also reduces the severity of crashes, resulting in fewer injuries, less damage to vehicles and other property, as well as less expenses for medical bills and vehicle repair.

3.  Avoid Legal Consequences

You avoid legal consequences, such as traffic fines and points being deducted from your licence when you drive within the speed limit.  As little as 10 points could result in your licence being suspended for six months, and as little as 14 could cause it to be suspended for a year. Amassing 20 or more could mean you won’t be able to drive for at least two years. 

Click here to become familiar with the traffic offences and fines under the new Road Traffic Act.

4. Lower Insurance Premiums

Slowing down can lead to lower insurance premiums. When crashes occur less frequently, the number of claims made to insurance companies decreases. This reduction in claims can translate to lower insurance costs for all drivers. Besides, you will be able to access ‘no claim’ discount on your premium.

5. More Reaction Time

Slower speeds give you more time to react to unexpected situations, such as a sudden stop by the motorist in front of you or an obstacle on the road. By adhering to speed limits, you provide yourself with a safety cushion that can prevent rear-end collisions.

JN General Insurance is helping to make the road safer for you by using “Just Slow Down” signs to mark 21 crash hotspots on the country’s roads so that you can be conscious of where you are most at risk of a crash.

By observing speed limits, you serve as a role model for other drivers. Driving responsibly can inspire others to drive considerately leading to safer roads for all.

Make a deliberate choice to prioritise road safety. Slow down and obey speed limits!