What is a key reason to obey speed limits?

Obeying speed limits is fundamentally important for ensuring safety for yourself and others on the road. Speed limits are established based on various factors including road conditions, traffic patterns, and the surrounding environment. When drivers adhere to these limits, they significantly reduce the risk of accidents, as higher speeds often lead to longer stopping distances and increased severity of collisions. Additionally, respecting speed limits promotes a safer driving environment for all road users, including pedestrians, cyclists, and other vehicles. Safe speed choices allow drivers more time to react to unexpected hazards, making the roads safer overall. Thus, prioritizing safety over other considerations is the main reason to observe speed limits.