Confirmed by the DGT: These are the five reasons that lead drivers to exceed the permitted speed.

Not many years ago, driving over the speed limit was, unfortunately, widespread. Fortunately, over the years our mentality has changed thanks to driver education and the consequences of speeding (more serious accidents, traffic tickets , etc.).

But there are still many speed lovers who think the number marked inside a red circle is optional, not mandatory. Speed ​​limits are there for a reason, and that's why the DGT (Directorate General of Traffic ) has posted a short question on Instagram: "Did you know the main reasons why we exceed the speed limit?" Spoiler alert : none of them are good reasons.

1. To match the speed of traffic

A classic every time we get in the car. "If everyone else is passing me at over 120 km/h, why should I be ahead?" Well, basically for safety reasons. Emergency braking at over 120 km/h can mean more than 140 meters to completely stop our car. Imagine going 20 or 30 km/h faster .

2. Because we are in a hurry

How many times have you found yourself saying to yourself, "How slow is the guy in front of you?" Well, let's put it the other way around: aren't you the one going too fast? Rushing is a terrible advisor behind the wheel, and a careless moment can be fatal when we exceed the speed limit. Rushing is no excuse , and it's better to arrive in one piece than to never reach our destination. If you're late, get your bearings, accept the delay, and don't blame others.

3. Because we enjoy driving fast

Are you one of those people who starts off first at the lights , burning rubber , overtakes in slaloms , and enjoys full-throttle acceleration on every straightaway? Well, we have bad news for you: you've confused roads with tracks . On the road, you share space with cars, motorcycles, scooters, and pedestrians, and caution starts with traveling at an appropriate speed. On a track, you have a clear path and plenty of escape routes if you make a mistake. If that mistake occurs in a city or on a highway at high speed, the consequences will be extremely serious .

4. Out of boredom

You're driving down a road with an endless straight line and there's no one around. How boring, right? The speed limit is 90 km/h, but you think, "What does it matter!" and you hit the accelerator. Boredom can never be an excuse for pushing the accelerator harder. Instead, enjoy the scenery, the tranquility of a traffic-free road , the music, or a good conversation. Keep in mind that this quiet road can turn into a dangerous situation at any moment, caused by an animal invading the road.

5. We don't realize we're driving fast

This is something that connects with point number 1, and that is that the sensation of speed is very peculiar . Going at 120 on a wide, three-lane highway without traffic is not the same as doing so in the city on a one-way road. The sensation of speed is more pronounced the narrower the road we perceive. So if you're one of those who "let go" too much when you don't perceive danger, maybe it's time to look at the odometer more often.

So the next time you get in the car, if you find yourself in any of these situations, remember not to blame others and take responsibility for your own safety while driving .