Atlanta is the biggest city in the state of Georgia and, therefore, has a large population. Its economy is mainly supported by trade and business, and its roads see a high volume of traffic. Car accidents are bound to happen, naturally.
It is essential to know an Atlanta car accident lawyer, as the chances of being in an accident are high. With the right legal assistance, accident victims can get the compensation they deserve.
Analyzing traffic accident trends is critical to preventing future accidents, improving infrastructure, and updating traffic laws. This article will explore a few reasons why some areas in Atlanta have more accidents than others.
Why do some locations in Atlanta see more accidents?
The design of the roads makes some more prone to accidents than others, including intersections and Interstates. The areas in Atlanta that have a high rate of accidents include:
- I-85 (especially between Exit 71 and Exit 77)
- I-75
- Georgia Route 42 (Moreland Avenue)
- I-285, between Exit 53 and South Loop Road
- State Route 14 Connector
Driver error contributes to a significant chunk of traffic accidents. Other factors also play a part in traffic injuries or fatalities, including road design and weather conditions. The following section discusses some of those factors:
Distracted Driving
With technology cheaper and more accessible than ever, drivers’ use of gadgets while on the road has significantly increased. Distracted driving is one of the top causes of traffic accidents nationwide.
Distracted drivers might not notice an obstacle in their path, like a child running onto the street or a car ahead of them suddenly braking. This can lead to catastrophic accidents.
Driver Fatigue
Another common reason for accidents is driver fatigue. When they get on the road, people fail to correctly judge whether they have enough energy to drive to their destination. They may have an urgent appointment to attend, but they might not have gotten enough sleep.
Under such circumstances, the driver will likely fall asleep at the wheel. This can lead to deadly car crashes. The chances of sleepy drivers becoming dangerous is particularly prevalent on highways.
Weather Conditions
Weather conditions can make roads treacherous for drivers. Heavy rain or snow can make the roads deadly, as it reduces visibility and traction.
It is important for drivers to check the weather before heading out and take any necessary equipment with them.
If a storm hits while a driver is on the road, they could get into an accident due to poor control over the vehicle or bad visibility.
Road Conditions
Atlanta, sadly, has a large number of potholes. Poorly maintained roads also contribute to car accidents in Atlanta. Potholes or crumbling roads may cause a driver to swerve, leading to an accident. Drivers can also injure themselves badly if they accidentally drive over an unmaintained section of the road.
Preventive measures
While accidents can be beyond the victim’s control, the average citizen can do a couple of things to reduce accidents. This includes:
- Following the rules of the road
- Checking the weather before leaving and equipping your vehicle with the right tools, like snow tires
- Not driving when you’re tired
- Not driving when you’re drunk
- Being aware of defensive driving tactics so that you’re not caught in an accident if another driver makes a mistake
Legal options
It is possible to sue the government for car accidents caused by badly maintained roads. Hiring a good attorney is essential, as lawsuits can get complicated.
Adequate evidence has to be submitted within stipulated deadlines for a case against the local government to be accepted in court. Victims are entitled to compensation for an accident if the government or a local body is found to be negligent.
Conclusion
Atlanta is the biggest city in the state and sees a lot of traffic. There are a number of places in the city that see a lot of accidents, and many factors cause this. Being aware of these hotspots and taking preventive measures can help reduce the chances of being in an accident.
