AAA study finds speeding has become normalized among drivers

A study by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety reveals that speeding has become normalized among drivers. Approximately 79% of respondents admitted to speeding at least occasionally, with 30% agreeing that “no one actually drives the speed limit.” Many drivers consider traveling 10 mph over the posted limit acceptable, and nearly half believe that matching the speed of surrounding traffic is safer than adhering to posted limits.

Common motivations for speeding include passing slower vehicles (31%), reaching destinations faster (25%), and avoiding holding up traffic (21%). Conversely, drivers reported that the primary reasons for slowing down are to avoid traffic tickets (79%), prevent crashes (72%), and navigate bad weather (60%).

The safety implications are significant. In 2024, speeding was a factor in nearly 30% of traffic fatalities nationwide, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. In Texas alone, speeding contributed to over 150,000 crashes in 2025, resulting in 1,247 fatalities. Regarding countermeasures, drivers expressed strong support for increased police presence and automated speed cameras in areas with high crash potential.