In Atlanta, you can’t often get many places without getting onto I-285. The I-285 is an interstate that circles Atlanta, and it’s filled with high traffic at all hours of the day and night. How dangerous is I-285 in Atlanta? To better answer this question, it is important to look at the statistics and learn how you can avoid Atlanta car accidents to stay safe on I-285.
Understanding I-285 and Its’ Dangers
I-285 in Atlanta has a total of 16 lanes: 4 inner and 2 outer lanes for each direction, having 8 total lanes and 1 HOV lane which runs counterclockwise. It also has two reversible express/HOV lanes, which are separated from the other 18 mainlines by barriers. Interstate 285 in Atlanta is “bifurcated” by Georgia State Route 400 (SR 400) near Buckhead, between which some drivers travel in excess of 80 mph (130 km/h).
1/10 I-285 drivers who cause Atlanta car accidents travel in excess of 80mph, and Atlanta truck drivers also speed through the Atlanta interstate at excessive speeds. Speeding is one of the most common causes of Atlanta car accidents on I-285.
According to 2016 data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there were 372 fatalities on I-285 in Atlanta. That’s an average of 1 death every 2 days. However, these numbers are broad because they include all types of deaths on this road, including pedestrian deaths and bicycle deaths. The Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) estimates that Atlanta car accidents happen on I-285 500 times per year.
Why Do Accidents Occur on I-285?
There are many factors that lead to an Atlanta crash on I-285. For example, some drivers may suffer serious injuries due to their own negligence (last-minute lane change), while other drivers may suffer injuries like whiplash in a rear-end collision when traffic comes to a sudden standstill.
On average, most people will spend about 1 hour and 25 minutes in Atlanta commuting each day. Atlanta drivers are often unable to avoid the gridlock and heavy traffic through the area. This congestion can lead to serious accidents due to road rage, speeding, distracted driving, weaving in and out of traffic, and reckless driving. To prevent some of these accidents from occurring, Atlanta commuters in Atlanta who take the I-285 may want to check out alternative routes which can decrease the risk of getting into a serious accident.
Atlanta road construction also plays a role in Atlanta accidents because it affects a driver’s visibility. Make sure your radio or GPS device says which lanes are closed (lane closures) before entering the highway because there is often construction on I-285. Also, give yourself enough time to reach your destination if you know that there is road construction. Road construction also causes lane closures which lead to Atlanta rear-end collisions, so beware.
I-285 is also a popular route for large commercial vehicles and big rigs. As such, the roads can become clogged with a variety of semi-trucks, delivery vehicles, and box trucks at all hours of the day and night. When a large truck causes a serious accident on I-285, the results are often catastrophic.
Why do trucking accidents occur on I-285? About 50% or more of all truck drivers involved in Atlanta accidents were speeding, according to data from the NHTSA.
When a Car Accident Occurs
When a car accident or truck crash does occur on I-285, it is important to know what to do. If you can, move your car safely out of the way and exit the vehicle. Move to an area off of the freeway and call 911. If you are unable to move your car or if you are significantly injured, call 911 immediately.
Once the police arrive and fill out an accident report, make sure you’re seen by a medical professional. A medical exam is critical and can make or break your case.
After your injuries are treated, call an experienced Atlanta car accident lawyer to review your case. You might be able to collect compensation if another person caused your crash. A lawyer can meet with you for a free initial evaluation and review. Then you can explore all your legal options and move forward with your claim.
Contact Our Atlanta Car Accident Lawyers
For years, the Kim Law Team has helped injured car accident victims who suffered injuries in devastating accidents on I-285. We fight insurance companies to help our injured clients obtain the money they need – and deserve. From Marietta to Buckhead, we are here to help.
Our law firm offers FREE initial consultations and reviews, so you can get the answers you need – when you need them. Call 404-587-8946 or fill out our confidential contact form. Just call and JUST WIN.
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