Car crashes are an unfortunate inevitability of modern life. Understanding car accident statistics can supply useful information on their causes, effects, and the legal side to them, especially if you were involved in a crash and are seeking compensation for your injuries.
Let’s take a look at key car wreck statistics in our state and how an Atlanta car accident lawyer can use this information to build your case.
Car Accident Statistics in Georgia
In 2021, crash data from the Georgia Governor’s Office of Highway Safety showed that there were 1,818 motor vehicle traffic fatalities, marking a 9% increase from the 1,664 roadway fatalities in 2020.
Despite the increase in the number of fatalities, the estimated rate of traffic fatalities for every 100 million vehicle miles traveled (VMT) decreased from 1.43 in 2020 to 1.41 in 2021.
Fatalities and Serious Injuries
In the period between 2017 and 2021, serious injuries resulting from vehicle accidents steadily increased. Preliminary crash statistics confirm that the number of serious injuries rose by nearly 1,330.
Fatalities by Location
The location of car accidents also plays a part in the fatality statistic. During 2021, 598 fatalities occurred in rural areas while in urban areas this figure was much higher amounting to 1,199 fatalities. The increase in fatalities in urban areas is a result of a higher number of vehicles on the road, as well as the speed variance of these vehicles.
Fatalities by Driver Age
Driver’s age is also an important factor in fatal car accidents. In 2021, drivers under the age of 21 were involved in 223 fatal accidents while 2,345 fatal accidents occurred in drivers aged 21 and over. Interventions for different age groups will be required to combat fatal accidents.
Alcohol-Impaired Driving Fatalities
Driving under the influence of alcohol is a growing concern in Georgia. In 2021, alcohol was a contributing factor which caused 391 driving fatalities. This concern strengthens the need for awareness campaigns and a stricter enforcement of the law.
Speeding-Related Fatalities
In 2021, speeding caused 369 fatalities in Georgia. Speeding is a major contributing factor to road fatalities strengthening the need for speed enforcement strategies and improving road users safety.
Future Projections
It is projected that in 2024 that vehicle accidents will increase leading to an even higher number of lives lost on the road. This highlights the importance of road safety strategies and measures urgently needed to curb the trend of rising fatalities on Georgia’s roads.
Legal Aspects of Car Accidents in Georgia
If you were injured in a car accident in Georgia, knowing relevant statistics pertaining to road safety and crash facts and figures is essential when building your case.
For example, if your accident occurred in a heavily circulated urban area, this would fall under the state’s general trend and make it easier to argue negligence of the other driver involved. Similarly, if the accident was caused by speeding, your Atlanta accident attorney may have a better chance of proving your case and getting you the compensation you deserve.
Insurance Requirements
Keep in mind that Georgia law requires drivers to have liability insurance in the event of an accident. This insurance will cover any losses or damage caused to other persons or property when an accident occurs.
The law requires drivers to have insurance coverage of $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident in which bodily injury has occurred. Additionally, drivers are mandated to have $25,000 in cover for property liability damage.
Reporting a Car Accident
Georgia law states that car accidents must be reported to law enforcement in any of the following situations:
- The crash was fatal.
- One or more people were injured in the accident.
- Property damage occurred that’s valued at over $500.
Fault in Car Accident Cases
Our state has a fault-based legal system. If you have been involved in a motor vehicle accident you will be entitled to claim compensation for your damages and losses if the other driver has caused the collision.
The other driver will be accountable for these losses if you are able to prove that their negligence and wrongdoing contributed to the accident.
Reach Out to an Atlanta Car Accident Attorney Right Away!
Car accident statistics provide road users as well as law makers with valuable information to create strategies and intervention programs to reduce the number of accidents and ultimately improve road safety by saving lives. Car accident statistics are also a valuable framework for road users to claim compensation for their losses.
If you have been involved in a car accident do not hesitate to contact an Atlanta auto accident lawyer with The Weinstein Law Firm at 770-HELP-NOW to ensure that you get the compensation you deserve.
