In the United States, accidents involving cars, trucks and SUVs are some of the most common causes of injuries and deaths. Though technological advancements, improvements in road safety, and federal agencies have provided the tools for individuals to drive on the road more safely than ever before, traffic accidents are still very common.
Annually, thousands of Georgia residents are hurt or fatally injured in traffic accidents. After a serious accident, those who are not killed are frequently left with costly medical bills in addition to permanent injuries. With legal assistance from an Atlanta personal injury law firm, the possibility of mitigating substantial medical costs and receiving proper care increases greatly.
The filing and procedural requirements of a traffic accident must be handled correctly because the victim of an accident has a limited opportunity to pursue any monetary award for any damages or injuries. If the statute of limitations has expired or an injury is improperly documented, that opportunity is gone.
Traffic Accident Safety Statistics
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is responsible for compiling and tabulating the data regarding traffic accidents in the United States. Their statistical data for Georgia reflects information as current as 2017. Last year, there were:
- 1,540 fatal traffic accidents
- 366 alcohol impaired accidents
- 139 fatal motorcycle accidents
- 2,283 drivers were involved in an accident where someone was killed
It’s important to note that pedestrians are not immune to the effects of negligent drivers. Even responsible drivers can injure pedestrians if they succumb to the hazards presented by inclement weather. Approximately three pedestrians are hit each day in Atlanta. Because of their lack of protection, they are over 30% more likely to be fatally injured in a traffic accident.
Prevalent Causes of Traffic Accidents
Because traffic accidents are so common, it would be helpful to identify the most common causes to better help you avoid the accident in the first place.
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is the number one cause of accidents in Atlanta and across the country. A distracted driver is one whose attention is diverted from the road by their cell phone, eating, or passengers in the car.
Speeding
It’s quite common for motorists to exceed the speed limit by 20 or 30 miles per hour. The faster a person drives, the shorter distance they have to react to an obstacle in the road.
Driving Drunk
The ability to focus and function properly is lost when alcohol is consumed. Everyone knows this, yet drunk driving kills thousands of drivers and innocent victims every year.
Teenage Drivers
Teenage drivers are the demographic who has the highest rate of traffic accidents due to their habitual use of cell phones while driving and being distracted by friends in the vehicle.
Reckless Driving
Each of us has a duty of care when we are in a civilized society. There are repercussions if our irresponsible behavior is a danger to others. Stay clear of drivers who change lanes too fast, speed, tailgate or ignore traffic signals.
Running Stop Signs
It should go without saying that stop signs should never be ignored, but most side-impact car accidents result from drivers who run through stop signs.
If you are involved in a traffic accident, attorneys at an Atlanta personal injury law firm can assist you in getting the full and equitable compensation you deserve for any pain and suffering you endured as the result of someone else’s negligence.
