Stephen Hasner | Car Accidents | December 20, 2019
Like any city, Atlanta has its share of busy intersections. And, as you might expect, there is a heightened risk of a car accident occurring in these locations.
Now, unfortunately, the number of crashes in Georgia is going up each year. However, there are steps you can take to keep yourself and your loved ones safe out there. But, accidents do happen, so if you are involved in a collision, reach out to an Atlanta car accident lawyer from Hasner Law, PC. We can help.
The Statistics on Crashes and Injuries in Atlanta
Here in Fulton County, the number of vehicle crashes and injuries has been increasing steadily over the past five years. Specifically, according to the latest report from the Georgia Governor’s Office of Highway Safety, there were 58,581 crashes in 2017, compared to 43,775 crashes in 2013. Accidents increased by a third in just a few short years.
In terms of automobile injuries, there were 17,947 in 2017, compared to 14,078 in 2013. Further, the number of traffic fatalities rose from 85 to 115 across that same five-year period. The most common cause of these accidents was alcohol, followed by speeding. Of those deaths, 36 were pedestrians, and 14 were motorcyclists.
If we zoom out to the statewide level, there were 1,514 traffic fatalities in 2018. It is estimated that 70% of those deaths were caused by unsafe driving behaviors. Examples would be speeding, drunk driving, and distracted driving.
Deadliest Roads in Georgia
When considering the number of fatal accidents in Georgia, it’s important to keep in mind where these collisions commonly occur. In fact, most of the crashes take place on roads in and around Atlanta than anywhere else statewide.
The most dangerous road in Georgia is I-20 in Atlanta at mile marker 44. Other sections making the top 20 include several stretches along I-75 and I-85.
In addition, dangerous roads that you should be aware of include:
- Lee Street SW
- Martin Luther King Jr. Drive SW, and
- Old National Highway.
Keep in mind that accidents can – and do – happen anywhere. However, having the knowledge of where accidents tend to happen most can potentially keep you and your family save.
Dangerous Intersections in Atlanta
As mentioned, heavily trafficked intersections are more likely to lead to accidents. However, these sections are not as hazardous as the highway stretches identified above. This is because traffic moves slower, which results in a decreased likelihood of a fatal crash.
That said, the most dangerous intersections in the Atlanta metro area include:
- Memorial Drive and N. Hairston Road in Stone Mountain
- East Park Place and Stone Mountain Highway in Stone Mountain
- Covington Highway and Panola Road in Lithonia
- Cobb Place Blvd. and Ernest Barrett Parkway in Kennesaw, and
- Jimmy Carter Blvd. and Peachtree Industrial Blvd. in Norcross.
While you probably can’t avoid every intersection on your commute through the city, you might be able to stay away from these, where accidents happen most.
Staying Safe on Atlanta Roads
Remember, intersections are inherently dangerous, particularly during high-traffic times, such as rush hour. This is true not only for motorists, but also for cyclists and pedestrians. Stay alert, as Atlanta drivers have been known to:
- Run stop signs
- Ignore red lights
- Speed
- Drive distracted
- Drive without headlights
- Fail to yield, and
- Otherwise fail to follow the rules of the road.
Because of these potential dangers, it’s always best to drive defensively. Don’t assume that other drivers will yield the right of way or stop for pedestrians. If possible, avoid the busiest roads during rush hour. Further, make sure that you are not contributing to roadway hazards by driving aggressively or exceeding posted speed limits.
You should always wear your seatbelt. In fact, traffic fatality statistics show that you are far more likely to be killed in an accident if you are not buckled up.
What to Do If You Are In an Accident
That said, if you are involved in a collision, the first step is to seek medical attention right away. Make sure that you receive a thorough medical evaluation. This is for both your own safety and for the purposes of building a case if necessary.
The next step is to gather as much information about the accident as you can. This would include:
- The contact information of other drivers and potential witnesses
- Insurance information
- License plate numbers, and
- Make and model of vehicles involved.
You should also try to document the accident as best as you can. This would include taking photographs of any property damage and injuries and writing down your recollection of the events.
Keep in mind that you shouldn’t feel pressured to accept a settlement offered by an insurance company. They do not have your best interests in mind. Instead, reach out to an attorney as soon as possible. This will help make sure that you receive the compensation you deserve.
Contact the Atlanta Car Accident Lawyers at Hasner Law PC For Help
For more information, please contact the Atlanta car accident law firm of Hasner Law P.C. at our nearest location to schedule a free consultation today.
We serve in Fulton County, Chatham County, and its surrounding areas:
Hasner Law PC – Atlanta Law Office
2839 Paces Ferry Rd SE #1050
Atlanta, GA 30339
(678) 888-4878
Hasner Law PC – Savannah Law Office
221 W York St
Savannah, GA 31401
(912) 234-2334
