Fact-Checking the Speed Driving Meme: the Science, Myths, and Reality Behind Fast Vs. Slow Drivers

From key trends to fundamental details, understand everything about Fact-Checking the Speed Driving Meme: the Science, Myths, and Reality Behind Fast Vs. Slow Drivers in our latest feature.

Q1: Does driving slower than traffic really cause more crashes than speeding?

A1: No. While traveling significantly below the prevailing speed of traffic increases the likelihood of being involved in a disruption or minor collision, excessive speed vastly increases both crash probability and the likelihood of severe injury or death. Modern safety data does not show that slow driving generates more fatal accidents than speeding.

Q2: Is it illegal to stay in the left lane if you are driving the speed limit?

A2: Yes, in many jurisdictions. Most states have uniform vehicle codes that designate the left lane exclusively for passing, or require vehicles moving slower than prevailing traffic to move right regardless of the posted speed limit. Enforcement targets lane disruption rather than driver velocity alone.

Q3: Why do viral memes claim the Solomon Curve proves fast driving is safer?

A3: Early interpretations of the 1964 Solomon study failed to control for turning vehicles and rural intersections, creating an artificially elevated crash rate for "slow" vehicles. Internet commentators routinely cite this distorted U-curve while ignoring that the study evaluated non-interstate rural roads rather than modern freeways.