Atlanta, a city pulsating with energy and opportunity, grapples with a sobering reality: intersection accidents. These collisions, often unfolding in a blink of an eye, leave lasting scars on lives and communities.
It’s important to understand why these crashes happen and how you can protect yourself and others on the road. If you have been hurt in a collision, our Atlanta car accident lawyers can help you obtain the compensation you deserve.
The Causes of Atlanta Intersection Accidents
In 2022 alone, Atlanta witnessed over 20,000 reported crashes at intersections, resulting in nearly 400 injuries and 16 fatalities. This translates to roughly 55 intersection accidents every day.
Several factors create a perfect storm for intersection accidents in Atlanta.
Distracted Driving
In 2021, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimated that 26% of fatal crashes involved distracted drivers. Atlanta, with its tech-savvy population and heavy traffic congestion, is particularly vulnerable to this epidemic.
Speeding and Aggressive Driving
A 2022 study by the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) revealed that speeding contributed to a staggering 17% of all fatal crashes in the state. This trend translates to Atlanta’s intersections, where exceeding the posted limit significantly reduces reaction time and increases the severity of collisions.
Aggressive driving such as tailgating, weaving through traffic, and unsafe lane changes also contribute to intersection crashes.
Running Red Lights
The Georgia Governor’s Office of Highway Safety reports that running red lights contributes to 25% of all fatal crashes in the state. This disregard for traffic signals sows chaos at intersections, often resulting in devastating T-bone crashes.
Complex Intersection Designs
Atlanta boasts a labyrinthine network of roads, with some intersections featuring multiple turning lanes, confusing markings, and unclear traffic light sequences. This complexity can disorient even seasoned drivers, leading to misjudgments and collisions.
Vulnerable Pedestrians and Cyclists
Atlanta’s growing population of pedestrians and cyclists, while encouraging sustainable transportation, increases their vulnerability at intersections. Inadequate crosswalks, poor visibility, and disregard for pedestrian right-of-way can lead to serious injuries and fatalities.
The Search for Solutions
Safe Driving
Drivers must prioritize safe practices. Georgia Code § 40-6-241, for instance, prohibits distracted driving, while § 40-6-180 regulates speed limits. Obeying these laws, along with avoiding distractions, maintaining appropriate speeds, and yielding to pedestrians and cyclists, is paramount.
Infrastructure Improvements
GDOT’s Intersection Safety Program focuses on implementing safer designs, improving visibility, and upgrading traffic signals at high-crash locations. Additionally, municipalities are authorized to enact pedestrian-friendly ordinances like crosswalk markings and protected turn lanes.
Traffic Enforcement
Increased enforcement of traffic laws, particularly those addressing distracted driving, speeding, and red-light violations, acts as a deterrent and holds violators accountable.
Public Awareness Campaigns
Educational campaigns highlighting the dangers of intersection accidents and promoting safe driving practices can change attitudes and encourage responsible behavior. The GOHS’ “Click It or Ticket” campaign serves as an exemplary model.
Proving Fault and Seeking Compensation
In the aftermath of an intersection accident, determining fault and seeking compensation can be daunting. Here’s a roadmap.
- Georgia’s Comparative Fault System: Fault is assigned based on each party’s contribution to the accident. Even if you share some blame, you may still be entitled to compensation.
- Evidence Gathering: Police reports, witness statements, video footage, and medical records are crucial pieces of evidence. OCGA § 40-6-273 requires drivers to report accidents involving injury or property damage, further aiding the investigation.
- Negotiation and Litigation: An experienced personal injury attorney will negotiate with the insurance company for a fair settlement. If necessary, they will represent you in court to pursue full compensation for your injuries and damages.
Call Our Experienced Atlanta Car Accident Lawyers
By understanding the contributing factors in intersection crashes, practicing safe driving habits, and advocating for safer infrastructure, we can collectively transform Atlanta’s intersections from danger zones into beacons of safety.
Contact the Weinstein Firm at 770-HELP-NOW if you have been involved in an accident in Atlanta or anywhere in Georgia. Our Atlanta car wreck lawyers have won millions of dollars for clients.