Living in a big city like Atlanta has its perks—plenty of things to do, places to eat, and people to see. However, it also has its downside. Any Atlanta resident can tell you that traffic here is a pain. And, if you’re not careful, it can also be dangerous. In fact, according to the CDC, car crashes are the leading cause of death for people ages 1-54 in the United States.
According to the Georgia Electronic Accident Reporting System, nearly 35,000 car crashes occurred in Atlanta in 2019 – or about 96 crashes per day. This number skyrockets when you add in the rest of the metro area. According to one recent report, Atlanta ranks in the top ten most dangerous cities to drive in.
What are the Most Common Types of Car Accidents in Atlanta?
With so many cars on the road, it’s no wonder that accidents are so common. But what are the most common types of car crashes in Atlanta? Here’s a look at the six most common types of car accidents and how you can avoid them.
Rear-End Crashes – One of the most common types of car crashes in Atlanta is the rear-end crash. This happens when one car hits another from behind. Rear-end crashes often occur when one driver is not paying attention and rear-ends another car that has stopped or slowed down. They can also happen when one driver is following another too closely.
To avoid rear-end crashes, it’s important to always be aware of the cars around you and to give yourself enough space to stop if necessary.
Side-Impact Crashes – Side-impact crashes, also known as T-bone accidents, happen when the front of one car hits the side of another. These accidents are particularly dangerous because they can cause serious injuries or even death. There is very little support or cushioning on the side of most vehicles. As such, there is little to absorb the crash’s impact.
To avoid side-impact crashes, you should always yield the right of way to oncoming traffic and be extra cautious when driving near intersections.
Head-On Collisions – Though they’re less common than rear-end and side-impact collisions, head-on collisions are some of the most dangerous types of accidents on the roadways today. These crashes occur when two cars hit each other head-on, typically due to one driver crossing into oncoming traffic or veering off into the wrong lane.
To avoid head-on collisions, stay focused on the road and never drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol. You should also avoid driving while tired or drowsy; take breaks frequently if you’re going on a long road trip. And as always, obey all posted speed limits and never drive too fast for conditions (e.g., during heavy rain or snow).
Single-Vehicle Crashes – Driver error, such as distracted driving and driving under the influence, typically cause single-vehicle crashes. Weather conditions or poor road conditions can also cause them. If you are in a single-vehicle crash, staying calm and assessing the situation is vital. If you can do so safely, you should move your vehicle out of the traffic flow and call 911.
Hit and Run Accidents – In 2016 alone, 1163 hit-and-run crashes occurred in Atlanta, with 14 resulting in fatalities. A hit-and-run crash occurs when a driver flees the scene after colliding with another vehicle or object. Leaving the scene of an accident is illegal and leaves victims stranded and without help.
The best way to avoid being involved in a hit-and-run is to drive defensively and stay alert while behind the wheel to avoid any potential hazards on the road. If you’re involved in a hit-and-run accident, the best thing to do is call the police immediately to help find the other driver.
Rollovers – A rollover is when a vehicle overturns onto its side or roof. Distracted driving, speeding, or sudden swerving can cause a car to roll over. Rollover accidents are especially dangerous because they often result in ejection from the vehicle, which can lead to severe injuries or death. If you are involved in a rollover accident, it is crucial to seek medical attention immediately, as injuries from these accidents can be severe.
Contact Our Experienced Atlanta Car Accident Lawyers
If you got into a car accident in Atlanta, our law firm wants to be there to help you pick up the pieces. To do this best, we offer 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. We work on a contingency basis, so you don’t pay us anything unless we win your case! Just call and JUST WIN.
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