What Type of Collision Could You Avoid by Speeding Up?

If you’re navigating busy streets or highways in Buffalo, timing and quick judgment can make all the difference. While it might seem counterintuitive, what type of collision could you avoid by speeding up? The answer depends on the scenario—but the key lies in understanding how defensive driving works. At O’Brien & Ford, we’ve helped clients recover compensation after devastating accidents, many involving split-second decisions. Remember, the at-fault driver in a severe car accident could be responsible for massive financial losses. That liability often includes future and past medical bills, pain and suffering, lost wages, and even property damage—sometimes totaling millions.

Understanding Defensive Driving for Avoiding Collisions

Defensive driving isn’t about being overly cautious. It’s about staying alert, anticipating hazards before they unfold, and choosing the safest course of action—even if that means stepping on the gas. While speeding up might seem dangerous at first, it can actually help you steer clear of more serious collisions under specific circumstances. Drivers must constantly assess the behavior of others and their own position on the road. In many situations, accelerating slightly can eliminate the risk of a crash altogether.

For example:

• Preventing a side-impact when another vehicle fails to yield
• Avoid getting rear-ended when merging onto a highway
• Escaping a vehicle that’s drifting into your lane

In all of these instances, braking might make things worse—especially if the driver behind you isn’t paying attention.

Defensive driving means reading the environment and reacting accordingly, not relying on one-size-fits-all rules. It’s not always about hitting the brakes. Sometimes, the safest move is making space, clearing an intersection, or merging smoothly by increasing speed just enough to stay safe. When used wisely, this proactive strategy can reduce your risk of injury and property damage while keeping traffic flowing.

Situations Where Speeding Up May Help Prevent a Car Accident

Not every accident can be avoided by slowing down or stopping. Sometimes, the safest course of action is to accelerate—particularly when you’re caught in someone else’s mistake.

Let’s explore where this applies:

• Intersections: You may need to accelerate to clear the path of a speeding vehicle that runs a red light.
• Highway merging: Cars traveling too slowly while entering a freeway are at risk of being rear-ended.
• Lane changes: If another vehicle begins merging into your lane unexpectedly, speeding up can help you get out of the danger zone.

These are the kinds of high-pressure moments that demand quick thinking—and occasionally, quick acceleration.

What Type of Collision Could You Avoid by Speeding Up?

Rear-End Collisions

You may avoid being rear-ended by accelerating, especially if the driver behind you is distracted or tailgating. This is common in stop-and-go traffic where sudden braking can lead to chain-reaction crashes. If there’s room ahead, speeding up to avoid abrupt braking may prevent a crash.

Rear-end collisions are one of the most common accident types in New York. In many cases, they occur at traffic lights or in congestion, when the rear driver fails to notice the car in front slowing down or stopping.

Side-Impact Collisions

Also known as T-bone crashes, side-impact collisions often happen at intersections, particularly when one driver ignores a traffic signal or stop sign. If you notice a vehicle speeding toward your side, accelerating to get through the intersection before they reach you can reduce the chance of being hit broadside.

T-bone collisions often result in severe injuries, especially on the passenger side where there’s less structural protection. Speeding up here isn’t about breaking the law—it’s about minimizing the odds of a devastating hit.

Merging Accidents

Speeding up during a merge can help you avoid collisions from vehicles in blind spots or entering without signaling. When merging onto a highway or changing lanes, matching the speed of traffic is essential. Moving too slowly can confuse other drivers or put you in their blind spots longer than necessary.

New York highways, especially I-90 and I-290, demand quick merging. Drivers who hesitate or fail to match speed can become road hazards themselves.

Other Collision Types You Might Avoid by Increasing Speed Briefly

In some less frequent scenarios, increasing speed may also help avoid:

• Hit-and-run side scrapes: When a weaving driver veers into your lane
• Intersection gridlocks: Escaping a stuck intersection when cross traffic begins to move
• Obstructed road hazards: Such as potholes or fallen debris, where swerving isn’t an option

Keep in mind, though, these maneuvers must be made with full awareness of your surroundings. The benefit of speeding up in these situations is only valid if you’re certain it’s the safer option.

When Speeding Up Becomes a Danger Instead of a Solution

Speeding is not a one-size-fits-all answer. There’s a fine line between a smart defensive move and reckless driving.

According to the New York State Traffic Safety Committee, driving above the speed limit is a ticketable offense—no matter the reason. Even if everyone around you is speeding, the law holds you accountable.

Also worth noting:

• Speed limits are maximums, not minimums. In poor weather or on wet roads, drivers are expected to slow down.
• Driving too slowly can also be dangerous, especially on highways where minimum speeds apply.
• The safest approach is to drive with the flow of traffic only if that flow is within legal limits.

Speeding caused 11,775 fatalities, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Many of these crashes could’ve been avoided with proper judgment, not just faster reflexes.

Speeding up should never put you, your passengers, or others at greater risk. Use acceleration wisely—and only when it truly offers a safer escape.

Contact a Car Accident Attorney to Discuss Your Case

Accidents don’t happen in slow motion. One wrong move or delayed reaction can change your life in an instant. If you’ve been involved in a crash—whether or not speeding up played a role—you deserve answers and trusted legal advice.

At O’Brien & Ford, we take every car accident case seriously. We’ve helped people across Buffalo recover damages after collisions that left them injured, out of work, or emotionally drained. Our office is located at 4549 Main St Suite 201, Buffalo, NY 14226. When you’re ready to talk, we’ll be here to listen.

Call us today at 716-222-2222 to schedule your free consultation. Let’s figure out your next step—together.

Chris O’Brien

Chris O’Brien is a nationally recognized personal injury attorney with over 30 years of experience fighting for accident victims in Western New York. A founding partner at O’Brien & Ford, he has helped recover millions for clients and built a reputation as a top trial lawyer and educator. Chris is a Diplomate of the National College of Advocacy, a member of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum, and was named one of Western New York’s Top Ten Lawyers by Buffalo Business First. He lives in Amherst with his family and their Bernedoodle, Moose.

Years of experience: 33 years
Practice areas: Personal Injury Law, Car Accidents
Location: Buffalo, New York