Many Georgians rely on motor vehicles to help them get from point A to point B. If you're among the many in this state who drive regularly, you may want to familiarize yourself with the most dangerous roads in Georgia. Knowing where accidents are more likely to occur can help you plan routes.
That said, accidents can happen anywhere. They can also occur for numerous reasons. If you're ever involved in one, be aware that you may have grounds to file a compensation claim.
These Are the Most Dangerous Roads in Georgia
Fintech company MoneyGeek recently analyzed more than 4,000 fatal motor vehicle accidents in Georgia to determine which roads in the state pose the greatest danger to motorists and pedestrians. According to the study's findings, Georgia's most hazardous roads are:
- SR-42 from S. River Industrial Boulevard SE to Wylie St. SE: During the two-year span the study covers, 12 fatal accidents occurred on this stretch of road. This makes it the most dangerous road in the state.
- Interstate 20 from Exits 71 to 65: This stretch of road saw 11 fatalities over two years, with a crash-per-mile rate of 2.2.
- Interstate 285 between the SR-6 Interchange and the Riverdale Road Exit: Like the above, between 2018 and 2020, 11 fatal accidents occurred on this stretch of road.
- Interstate 285 (Road Exit Bouldercrest - the I-20 interchange): This stretch was the site of 10 fatal accidents in two years. It also had a crash-per-mile rate of 2.2.
- State Route 85 from Exit 237A to Springdale Drive: Although this road also saw ten fatal accidents during the time the study covers, it is slightly less dangerous due to its 2.5 crashes per mile rate.
Key Findings About the Most Dangerous Roads in Georgia
The study yields valuable information about accident trends in the Peach State, including the following:
- The five most dangerous stretches of road in Georgia are in the Atlanta metro area. This is likely due to dense traffic conditions. The more vehicles there are on the road, the more opportunities there are for accidents.
- Drunk driving was a factor in approximately 20% of fatal crashes. Speeding was a factor in nearly 19% of accidents resulting in loss of life.
- For unclear reasons, Georgia has one of the nation's lowest rates of distracted driving accidents.
- More fatal accidents occur in October in Georgia than in any other month.
- Fulton County has the highest fatal accident rate of all counties in Georgia.
What to Do if You're Involved in a Georgia Car Accident
Even if you're a cautious motorist, it's possible to be involved in an accident in Georgia due to the negligence of another party.
It's important to take certain steps in the aftermath of a collision. After an accident, you should:
- Check yourself and your passengers for injuries.
- Move to a safe spot away from traffic and other hazards. Don't operate your vehicle if you have any reason to believe doing so may be dangerous.
- Confirm all others involved in the accident don't need immediate medical attention. Don't confront anyone angrily, even if you're sure they caused the accident. Remain calm throughout all interactions, and don't make the mistake of saying anything that could suggest you caused the collision.
- If anyone involved attempts to flee the accident scene, try to take down their license number or any other details the police may use to identify them.
- Call 911 to report the accident. Per Georgia law, you must report an accident if:
- Someone is injured.
- Someone is killed.
- An accident results in at least $500 in property damage.
- Exchange insurance information and contact information with the other drivers involved in the accident.
- Take pictures of your injuries, the damage to your vehicle, and the conditions of the accident scene.
- Get the witnesses' names and contact information, and record their statements about what they saw, if possible.
- Cooperate while the officer investigates the scene.
- See a doctor immediately, even if you don't believe you've sustained major injuries.
Next, strongly consider reviewing your case with a Georgia car accident lawyer. You may be eligible to receive financial compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and other such losses.
Georgia is an at-fault car accident state. This means you can seek compensation if your accident resulted from the negligence of another party by filing a claim with their insurance.
An attorney may improve your chances of securing the compensation you deserve by:
- Applying their familiarity with the special rules for Georgia accident claims.
- Investigating your accident to identify liable parties.
- Collecting witness statements and evidence of negligence.
- Accounting for your economic and non-economic damages to determine how much compensation you may be eligible to receive.
- Filing your claim and negotiating with the insurance company on your behalf.
Get started today. Use Accident.com to find a car accident lawyer in Georgia who can offer the representation you deserve.