What is velocitation?

Velocitation is a term used to describe a phenomenon that occurs when a driver becomes accustomed to driving at high speeds for an extended period of time, such as on a highway. This can lead the driver to perceive their speed as slower than it actually is when they transition to driving at lower speeds, such as when exiting the highway onto a city street.

This can result in the driver unintentionally speeding, as they may not realize how fast they are actually going due to their skewed perception of speed. Velocitation can also lead to decreased reaction times and an increased risk of accidents, as the driver may not be able to respond quickly to unexpected events on the road.

To prevent velocitation, it is important for drivers to be aware of their surroundings, adhere to speed limits, and regularly check their speedometer to ensure they are driving at a safe speed. It is also advisable to take breaks during long drives to help reorient the perception of speed.