Which traffic violation is most likely to result in fatalities in automobile accidents?

Speeding is identified as the traffic violation most likely to result in fatalities in automobile accidents due to several factors. When drivers exceed the speed limit, they reduce their ability to react to sudden obstacles or changes in traffic conditions. Higher speeds also increase the severity of collisions since the force of impact escalates significantly with speed.

The kinetic energy involved in a crash is proportional to the square of the speed, meaning that even a small increase in speed can lead to a much higher risk of severe injury or death. Moreover, speeding can lead to a loss of vehicle control, making it challenging for the driver to maintain a safe path through curves or while navigating through busy intersections.

While other violations like running a red light, driving without a seatbelt, and improper lane changing also contribute to accidents and can result in fatalities, the likelihood of fatal outcomes is generally higher when speed is a factor. Speeding not only affects the driver but also endangers other road users, making it a particularly dangerous behavior in traffic situations.