No one likes being in an accident. It doesn't matter whose fault it is, the damage is expensive, and the injuries are often serious. There's also the hassle of going through insurance.
Atlanta is in the top ranks of the worst traffic in the US. As a commuter, it may seem like another regular Tuesday until you get in lane with a bad driver.
There are many causes of car accidents in Georgia, and knowing what they are can help you avoid them. From speeding to distracted driving, here are seven of the most common causes of car accidents in Georgia.
1. Impaired Driving
Accident prevention campaigns almost always warn drivers against impaired driving. One main reason for this is that it's one of the leading causes of fatalities on the road. In most cases, impaired driving can also be driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI).
Deeper definitions and legalities usually depend on what state you're in. In Georgia, driving while intoxicated will put you at fault for most accidents you get into. Anything that affects your ability to operate a car safely should make driving a no-go.
2. Driving While Distracted
As tempting as it is, pulling out your phone while driving isn't something you should ever do. Not only is it dangerous for yourself, but those around you as well. Know that being on an electronic device while driving counts as distracted driving.
The definition and laws on distracted driving vary from state to state. However, knowing what counts can save you and others from hefty fines, or worse, major accidents. There's no doubt of how much convenience our gadgets bring today.
Despite this, they're also one of the leading causes of auto accidents. In Georgia alone, fines and penalties can lead up to $150 when caught, and a record can lead to loss of license.
3. Speeding
It shouldn't come as a shock that speeding is one of the most common causes of car accidents. Higher speeds tend to correlate with a lack of control.
It doesn't matter how good of a driver you think you are. Road conditions can be unpredictable, and so is traffic. If another car makes a mistake or mistimes a turn, you'll have less time to react if you're speeding.
4. Running Red Lights
It seems like a simple decision to stop or go, but it's more complicated than that. There are three major reasons people run red lights, leading to car accidents in Georgia. These are distraction, impatience, and uncertainty.
Distraction is pretty straightforward. Some drivers don't pay attention and don't realize the light's red. It was green at one point; they looked elsewhere and might not even realize it's turned on them.
Impatience is a major issue too. Some people make a judgment call to blow through a red anyway. They're in a hurry and are willing to risk a ticket or even an accident to get somewhere that much quicker.
The last one is uncertainty. Some people don't know how to time a yellow light before it turns, and others realize they're in the wrong lane and don't know what to do. This uncertainty can be dangerous because drivers might try to turn anyway or speed through a light before it turns.
Yellow lights limit this, but inconsistency in how long they last are a driver's worst enemy. These result in cars passing through or turning in intersections when they shouldn't. Cars speeding through, expecting the right of way, won't be ready for this.
The results can be severe life-threatening accidents.
5. Unconducive Weather Conditions
Poor weather and visibility can hurt your ability to see and maneuver your vehicle. For example, heavy rain can cause your car to hydroplane, especially at higher speeds. Hydroplaning is when your car can't get solid traction on the asphalt and slides along the water as if it was ice.
Add in higher speeds and fog, and you have a recipe for disaster. Losing control of your car due to poor weather is one thing, but you also have to consider those around you. They'll likely be struggling as much as you, so keep an eye out.
To avoid accidents during bad weather, drive with extra care. Following weather advisories is also best to avoid accidents.
6. Irresponsible Pedestrians and Cyclists
Jaywalking pedestrians and inconsiderate cyclists can also cause accidents. Even at designated crosswalks, sometimes people don't look both ways. Listening to music while not paying attention to oncoming cars is a major issue.
Cars swerving out of the way or trying to brake in time can cause accidents. A cyclist making a move without bike hand signals to alert a driver could lead to a lot of trouble. It's essential to try and get eye contact with those you share the road with and pay attention to hand signals.
In residential areas, be sure to drop your speed, especially if there are many tall obstacles.
7. Aggressive Driving
We all have heard the term "aggressive driving," but what does it mean? Some examples include disregard for signs, constant swerving, or even tailgating.
Driving behaviors like these are only some of the many common causes of car accidents. This is why defensive driving is what's suggested to new or first-time drivers. It's still always a good rule of thumb to forgo aggressive driving, even if you're a veteran on the roads.
Generally, being more mindful and aware of others on the roads is the right driving etiquette. This follows the same principle of knowing your driving competency but not assuming for those driving around you. With this in mind, car accidents can be more avoidable for you and other drivers.
The Major Causes of Car Accidents in Georgia
There are several main causes of car accidents in Georgia. These include speeding, running red lights, and distracted driving. There's also not sharing the road, driving while impaired, and in poor conditions. If you end up in an accident, regardless of fault, it helps to have someone on your side.
At Georgia Auto Law, we are some of the best auto accident lawyers around. Get in touch with us today, and we'll help you navigate the legal waters of driving in Georgia.