Touch of Magic

Not slowing down to account for visible upcoming problems is pretty bad. Cutting corners (so long as you're on pavement, and don't cut anybody off) is better and easier for most cars however, putting less strain on brakes, tires, suspension, stearing, and goodness knows whatever else. Not much less strain, but every little bit of babying adds with every other little bit. Still, I doubt that's the majority reason and I suspect you're probably correct.