Georgia saw nearly 400,000 car accidents in 2023, making it the state with the third-highest number of road accidents after Texas and California. This is significant, considering the state has over 8.85 million licensed drivers.
Road accidents are more than just statistics. More road accidents mean more deaths, injuries, and financial losses, which put additional strain on emergency services, the state, and insurance companies.
But why does the Peach State have so many road accidents? Besides the state’s reckless driving record and growing population, are there other reasons for this troubling trend?
Understanding what causes the unusually high number of road accidents in Georgia could save your life or help you better understand the legal process if you’re a road accident victim.
Common Causes of Car Accidents in Georgia
Between 2021 and 2022, pedestrian fatalities on Georgian roads increased by 12.4%. This is an indicator of conditions in Georgia. Although there are numerous reasons why this is the case, the leading causes of car accidents in the state are:
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving has always been an issue for drivers, especially on long trips when normal attention spans are reduced. Whether it’s eating, grooming, or the noise from pets or kids, they can all cause accidents. For example, texting while driving can take your eyes off the road for five seconds, which is enough time to lose control, especially at high speeds.
Speeding and Reckless Driving
Speeding reduces your reaction time to the behavior of other road users or external factors. For example, if you are driving at 90 mph and your front tire bursts, the chances of safely controlling your car are lower compared to a speed of 30 mph. Additionally, reckless driving, like aggressive lane changes and tailgating, increases the chances of accidents.
Drunk and Impaired Driving
Driving while drunk or under the influence is wrong. Unfortunately, many people still do it, risking their own lives and those of other road users. In Georgia, nearly a third of all road accidents in the state were caused by drunk driving in 2023.
Weather and Road Conditions
Georgia is naturally rainy and experiences fog regularly throughout the year, which makes driving on its roads dangerous. Always drive slowly, use fog lights, and stay in your lane to avoid accidents in such conditions. Also, avoid sudden movements, defog your windows, and increase the distance between you and other cars.
Your Legal Rights After a Car Accident
Of course, nobody wishes to be involved in a car accident, but sometimes it happens. So what do you do if another car rams into you? Here are some essential things you need to know.
Georgia operates under a fault-based insurance system, meaning the driver at fault in the case of an accident will pay for damages. The compensation you can get from the at-fault driver’s insurance company varies depending on the type of injury or the extent of the damage you suffer. For property damage, you can get up to $25,000 and up to $25,000 for bodily injury.
This is what to do in case of a road accident in Georgia:
- Ensure your safety and call emergency services, including the police. This is a must if damage exceeds $500.
- Exchange details with all involved parties, including insurance and contact information. Document the scene with multiple photos showing the car’s angle, registration plates, road conditions, etc.
- Get medical attention even for minor injuries. You never know if you have hidden internal injuries.
- Inform your insurance company to start the claim process.
How to Protect Yourself on Georgia’s Roads
Safe driving is the best way to avoid accidents on Georgia roads. Consider defensive driving, which means staying alert on the road, obeying speed limits, always using turn signals, and maintaining a safe distance between other cars.
Proper vehicle maintenance is another simple but effective way of reducing road accidents. Regularly inspect your brakes, tires, and lights for malfunctions. Poor visibility is another factor that can cause accidents; therefore, ensure that your wipers are working and that you have enough wiper fluid.
Lastly, leverage technology for a safer driving experience. Use dashcams for evidence in case of an accident, navigation apps to avoid dangerous routes, and driver assist features like lane departure warnings to enhance awareness.
Stay Safe on Georgia’s Roads
Driving safely is essential to avoid accidents on Georgia roads. Always drive defensively, maintain your car, and use technology to improve safety. Remember, while driving, you’re responsible for your life and that of other road users.
