Speeding significantly influences the outcome of motor vehicle accident claims. If you exceeded the speed limit during a collision, that fact may reduce the compensation you’re entitled to receive. Even when the other driver caused the crash, your conduct behind the wheel remains relevant.
Speeding and fault in Florida crashes
Florida applies a legal standard known as comparative negligence. This means that if both drivers bear some responsibility, each party’s compensation adjusts according to their percentage of fault. If you were found to be 30% at fault due to speeding, your damages would decrease by that same percentage.
How insurance companies use speeding
Insurance companies often scrutinize every detail to minimize payouts. If evidence shows you were speeding, the insurer may argue that your behavior contributed to the severity of the accident. This gives them grounds to reduce their offer, even if the opposing driver also acted negligently.
Evidence that can affect your claim
Various types of evidence, including surveillance footage, eyewitness accounts, and official police reports, can influence your case. If any of these sources confirm that you were speeding, your chances of securing full compensation diminish. However, if you can present credible evidence—such as vehicle telemetry data or dashcam footage—that you adhered to speed limits, it may strengthen your claim.
Complying with speed limits not only enhances roadway safety but also preserves your ability to pursue fair compensation. When you follow traffic laws, it becomes harder for opposing parties to attribute fault to you. If you’re injured, this compliance improves your likelihood of receiving full damages. Responsible driving supports a more favorable legal outcome.