At what speed is death 8 times more probable in a crash compared to 20 mph?

The concept that death becomes significantly more probable as speed increases during a crash is a crucial aspect of understanding vehicle safety and the impact of speed on survival rates. Research indicates that the likelihood of fatality increases exponentially with speed.

In this context, the correct answer reflects that at 60 mph, the probability of death in a crash is eight times greater than at 20 mph. This is due to the physics of collision forces, which increase with the square of the speed at the point of impact. As speed rises, the energy involved in the collision also increases, which translates into greater force exerted on the occupants of a vehicle during a crash.

This exponential relationship is pivotal for drivers to understand, as it underscores the importance of speed regulations, safe driving practices, and the critical need for seatbelt usage. These factors can significantly reduce the risk of severe injury or fatality in the event of a collision.