While some drivers may consider speeding in their vehicles harmless, studies have shown that speed is a factor in about one-third of crash deaths. For many families  the summer months include increased driving to vacation spots and more opportunities for young drivers to be behind the wheel.

“Speeding, driving while intoxicated and not wearing seat belts account for many of the traffic deaths and injuries in Louisiana and across the nation," said Lt. Col. John LeBlanc, executive director of the Louisiana Highway Safety Commission. "One of these factors alone increases the risk of death or injury while in a vehicle but, unfortunately, many serious crashes involve a driver who was engaging in all three of these."

A study conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration found that about one-third of all deaths that occurred in motor vehicle crashes nationwide were speeding-related. The study also found that many fatal crashes involved both speeding and an impaired driver. Sixty-two percent of the people killed in crashes in Louisiana in 2011 were not buckled up.

The total cost of a speeding ticket and court fees in Louisiana can be over $100, especially for repeat offenses. Repeat offenses can also result in increased insurance premiums. On top of the monetary costs, court appearances for tickets can require offenders to take time away from their jobs and other inconveniences.

“The few minutes that speeding can save a motorist are easily offset by the time and costs involved in paying a ticket or contesting it in court," LeBlanc said. "A person who causes a crash by speeding can also be subject to civil penalties if property damage or personal injury are involved."

According to preliminary data, 668 people were killed in highway crashes in Louisiana last year.