What Everyone Should Know About High-Speed Car Accidents

High-speed car crashes are among the most dangerous road accidents. When vehicles are moving at high speeds, the force of impact is high, with very little room for error, less time to respond, and a much higher likelihood of serious damage or death.

Castle Rock is known for its beautiful views and growing suburban communities. Located between Denver and Colorado Springs, it experiences heavy traffic. With a combination of local drivers and interstate commuters, high-speed accidents unfortunately occur quite frequently.

Yet, most drivers underestimate the true danger of speed. It is important for anyone who drives to be aware of the risks, causes, and effects of high-speed accidents. If you ever face such a situation, search for a high-speed car crash lawyer in Castle Rock.

It can be a crucial first step in exploring legal recourse, obtaining compensation, and navigating the recovery process. Here’s what everyone should know about high-speed car accidents:

Speed Multiplies the Force of Impact 

Many people don’t realize that the force of a crash doesn’t increase linearly with speed; it increases exponentially. At 60 mph, the force is four times that of crashing at 30 mph, and at 100 mph, the impact is essentially unsurvivable.

Even your car’s safety features, such as airbags and crumple zones, can be overwhelmed at those speeds. These systems are designed for moderate-speed crashes, but in high-speed impacts, they may deploy late or not provide sufficient protection.

Reaction Time Thins Drastically 

While driving at high speeds, your brain and body don’t have nearly enough time to react to and notice potential dangers. At 100 mph, for example, your car is traveling 147 feet per second, or almost half a football field.

You will not have time to look and react to slow down or swerve when something is in the path of your car. It is hence extremely dangerous to drive at high speeds on crowded streets, highways, or in inclement weather.

Rollover and Ejection Risks Increase 

Vehicles moving at high speeds are much more likely to flip over if they hit a curb, ditch, or guardrail. Worse, if drivers or passengers aren’t wearing seat belts, they can be thrown from the car, which is often fatal. Even with seat belts, the violent force of a high-speed rollover can lead to serious spinal injuries, broken bones, or crushing injuries.

Legal Consequences Can Be Severe 

If you cause a high-speed accident, you could face criminal charges, especially if someone is killed or seriously injured. Charges might include reckless driving, negligent homicide, or even vehicular manslaughter.

Beyond jail time, you could face massive civil lawsuits, loss of your license, and skyrocketing insurance costs. In some cases, your insurer may deny coverage if you were driving at extreme speeds.

Road Conditions Amplify the Danger 

Speeding on dry pavement is risky enough, but when roads are wet, icy, or poorly maintained, the dangers grow even more. At high speeds, your tires can lose contact with the road, leading to hydroplaning, sliding, or spinning out. Even something as small as a pothole or piece of debris can send a car veering out of control when you’re moving too fast.

Survivors Often Face Long-Term Injuries 

Surviving a high-speed crash doesn’t mean you walk away unharmed. Many survivors suffer permanent disabilities, including brain damage, spinal cord injuries, broken bones, and psychological trauma like PTSD. Recovery can take years of surgeries, rehab, and therapy, often with no guarantee of returning to normal life. The emotional and financial toll on families can be enormous.