I'd like to know what speed pads do for you in zone and if there is any reason to avoid or hit them.

From what I can tell, all they do is provide extra points. Is there a reason to hit them if I'm just going for zone requirements for an elite pass on 2048? Is there a reason to avoid them if I'm not concerned with overall score? I know when racing speed pads hint as to the optimal lines, but that seems different in zone.