Driving is an everyday activity for many people. Unfortunately, accidents can happen even when we take all the necessary precautions.
Nationwide Traffic Safety
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), despite Georgia being the eighth most populous state, Georgia has the fourth-highest number of car crashes per year:
- Texas – 3,874
- California – 3,847
- Florida – 3,331
- Georgia – 1,664
- North Carolina – 1,538
Read on to understand important traffic safety trends and learn tips on how to stay safe on the roads.
Georgia Traffic Safety Trends
We have compiled the following information using data and statistics reported by the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT).
In 2021 alone, there were 387,444 crashes, of which 1,909 led to fatalities. All in all, 154,280 injuries and 2,063 fatalities resulted from car crashes. According to GDOT, the most common factors that contributed to crashes included the driver:
- Following Too Closely
- Failing to Yield
- Changing Lanes Improperly
- Losing Control
- Driving Too Fast for Conditions
Tips to Stay Safe While Driving
The Governor’s Office of Highway Safety (GOHS) suggests drivers take extra precautions while driving to help ensure their safety and that of other drivers on the road. Here are some tips they offer:
- Drive at or below posted speed limits and adjust your speed for weather conditions and road quality.
- Avoid distractions like eating or texting while driving.
- Wear a seatbelt whenever you get behind the wheel or ride as a passenger in any vehicle.
- Always designate a sober driver if you plan to drink alcohol before getting behind the wheel.
- Never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Make sure your headlights are working properly, and turn them on when visibility is low due to weather conditions or darkness.
- Be aware of your surroundings and avoid aggressive driving behaviors such as tailgating and cutting off other drivers.
Georgia Car Accident Attorneys
Keeping yourself and others safe is paramount when driving; however, accidents can still occur regardless of how careful you are on the roadways. If you have been injured in an accident due to someone else’s negligence, seeking legal counsel may be beneficial for you so that you can receive fair compensation for any damages incurred by yourself or your property due to an accident caused by another person’s negligence or recklessness while operating a vehicle in Georgia. Understanding these trends, taking precautionary measures while driving, and seeking legal counsel if needed can help keep everyone safe while traveling through our state.
Contact the team at Adams Law Firm today by calling 478-772-3939 or filling out our secure online contact form.