Tragically, millions of motorists are involved in auto accidents each year throughout the United States. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), law enforcement reported more than 7,277,000 traffic collisions in one year alone.
Over the past several years, distracted driving has become a leading cause of auto and pedestrian accidents. However, there are a broad range of reasons why traffic accidents are so frequent in the State of Georgia. Our car accident attorneys are dedicated to representing traffic accident victims who have sustained personal injuries, or lost a loved one in an accident. Our firm understands auto accident cases, and we created a list of the most common causes of Georgia car wrecks to help your family stay safe.
Below is a list of the most common causes of motor vehicle accidents in the State of Georgia:
- Texting and driving – Texting and driving is now the leading cause of teen accidents that result in death. Georgia restricts texting while driving and it is prohibited in 48 states.
- Talking on a cell phone – The use of a hand held cell phone while driving is prohibited in only 13 states. The latest National Safety Council annual injury and fatality report discovered that 26% of the country’s auto accidents are caused by the use of cell phones.
- Speeding – The highest speed limit within the state of Georgia is 70 mph on rural interstates, 65 mph on urban interstates, and other limited access roads. Speeding is responsible for about 1/3 of all accidents.
- DUI – In the state of Georgia, Driving Under the Influence occurs when a motor vehicle operator has a BAC (Blood Alcohol Content) level over .08 percent. Drivers under the age of 21 are permitted to have a BAC level no higher than .02 percent.
- Weather – Motorists are expected to proceed with caution when driving in inclement weather. Georgia drivers are also expected to turn on their headlights when it is raining. Drivers should also refrain from using high beams in fog, rain or snow.
- Aggressive driving – This is not relegated to speeding. Changing lanes too often, tailgaiting, and racing are all forms of aggressive driving.
- Drowsy driving – This can have an effect on drivers who have been behind the wheel for several hours. A driver is three times more likely to be in an auto accident when the driver is fatigued, according to The National Safety Council.
- Ignoring stop signs and street lights – A driver is expected to come to a complete stop at a stop sign and look both ways twice before proceeding. Many times, drivers disregard traffic signs and devices due to irresponsible, distracted driving and recklessness.
- Automobile malfunctions – By ensuring that your car is serviced regularly, this will help to prevent these type of accidents. There are also several warning lights that will illuminate when a problem starts to arise with your vehicle.
No matter where you are located our lawyers are just a phone call away, and we will even come to you. Call us nationwide 24 hours day/7 days a week for your Free Consultation at 1-800-LAW-NEED® (1-800-529-6333), or simply dial #WIN® (#946) from your mobile phone. You can also visit us online at Montlick.com and use our Free Case Evaluation Form or Free 24-hour live chat.
Sources:
https://dds.georgia.gov/document/publication/ga-drivers-manual/download (downloads PDF file)
http://www.nsc.org/Pages/NSC-releases-latest-injury-and-fatality-statistics-and-trends-.aspx
https://www.nhtsa.gov/risky-driving/distracted-driving
https://www.nsc.org/road-safety/safety-topics/fatigued-driving
https://www.cdc.gov/motorvehiclesafety/teen_drivers/teendrivers_factsheet.html
https://www.nhtsa.gov/risky-driving/speeding
