Most collisions occur at curves because

• A. Curves are slippery
• B. The right lane has more traffic
• C. Speed on the approach is too great
• D. Visibility is reduced

Answer: (C)

When you reach a curve, your ability to steer safely hinges on how slow you enter it. The reason curves are common crash spots is that drivers often go into them too fast. Inertia wants the car to keep moving straight, and the tires have only so much grip to both turn and hold the car in the lane. If you enter a curve at too high a speed, that grip is exceeded, you can’t follow the intended arc, and you may drift toward the outside of the curve or into other hazards. You also have less time to react to surprises and oncoming traffic because your margin for error is smaller at higher speeds. Slowing before the curve, rather than braking inside the curve, helps you maintain control and complete the turn safely. Visibility and traffic conditions can affect outcomes, but speed on the approach is the key factor.