AAA Study Finds Speeding Has Become the Norm for Many Drivers

Speeding has become so common that many drivers now consider it a normal part of being behind the wheel, according to new research from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety.

Three in ten drivers surveyed agreed with the statement, “No one actually drives the speed limit.”

While most motorists said posted speed limits are appropriate, many also considered driving 10 miles per hour over the limit acceptable. Nearly half said they believe keeping up with traffic is safer than obeying the posted speed limit.

AAA says those attitudes can have serious consequences. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, speeding was a factor in nearly 30% of traffic fatalities in 2024.

The study also looked at why drivers speed. The most common reason, cited by 31% of motorists, was getting around slower drivers. Another 25% said they speed to reach their destination faster, while 21% said they do it to avoid holding up traffic.

So what gets drivers to slow down? Nearly eight in ten cited avoiding a speeding ticket, followed by avoiding a crash and driving in bad weather.

AAA recommends motorists choose their speed based on the posted limit, visibility, road conditions and the amount of space around their vehicle, rather than simply matching the speed of surrounding traffic.

Drivers traveling at the speed limit while others are speeding are encouraged to stay to the right, maintain a steady speed and leave additional following distance.