What increases the risk of collisions when driving at high speeds?

Driving at high speeds significantly increases momentum, which refers to the energy a vehicle has while in motion. As speed increases, the amount of momentum the vehicle carries increases, making it more challenging to stop or change direction quickly. This heightened momentum means that when a driver needs to react to an obstacle or a sudden change in traffic conditions, the time and distance required to stop safely are considerably extended.

With the increased momentum at high speeds, the stopping time is also increased. This can lead to a greater likelihood of collisions, especially if a driver does not anticipate the need to brake or maneuver in time. High-speed driving reduces the overall margin for error, making even small miscalculations or distractions significantly more dangerous. Thus, the combination of increased momentum and longer stopping distances creates a substantial risk factor for collisions when driving at high speeds.