[dragontamer]

The #1 factor in collisions is actually speed differential.

If you are driving at a dramatically different speed than everyone else, you increase the chance of collision. I'm not saying drive like grandma: I'm saying drive the same speed as everyone else, to minimize the risk of collision. If you're too slow, you are as dangerous as going too quickly.

Someone going 40 mph in a 60mph zone is just as dangerous as someone going 80 mph in a 60mph area. Speed differential is what causes accidents. If everyone is driving the same speed, its relatively difficult to actually hit anyone (as long as you stay out of people's blindspots). That's why downshifting to 3rd (or even 2nd) to reach 60mph ASAP while getting onto a highway is important to me.

[chrisdhoover]

Speed differential when driving in traffic, OP said to get away from traffic. There is no differential when there is no car near you

[lutorm]

A rare road indeed where all other traffic is behind you...

[Dylan16807]

Being first at a red light is not very rare.

And even if there are cars adjacent, you can scoot away just fine with a speed differential under 10mph.