Atlanta, Georgia’s capital city, is a thriving metropolis highlighted for its rich past, diverse culture, and vibrant economy. As a result, its traffic conditions can be rather challenging. The city’s traffic patterns have a big impact on personal injury lawsuits, especially those concerning motor vehicle accidents.
From 2018 to 2022, the city recorded 182,521 motor vehicle crashes, resulting in 387 deaths and 69,113 injuries. These concerning figures highlight the important impact that Atlanta’s traffic patterns play in personal injury lawsuits.
Let’s examine how Atlanta’s unique traffic patterns influence personal injury claims and navigate the complex legal system for fair compensation.
A Deeper Dive into Atlanta’s Traffic Dynamics
With over 4.6 million residents, the Atlanta metro area is inevitably a superhub of traffic activity. 81% of people in this city commute by car. Six major highways, including Interstates 20, 75, 85, 285, 575, and 675, serve the city. In the mornings and evenings, these highways and service roads are clogged with traffic. Accidents are likely because of the large number of cars on the road and the traffic patterns in the city.
For Ga. 400, the numbers are even more striking towards the south. Before a 10% increase in the last year, traffic fell by 20% between 2019 and 2020.
Throughout 2022, Atlanta continued to experience significant traffic congestion, a trend that has long characterized the metro area. The INRIX 2022 Global Traffic Scorecard highlighted travel delays and collision trends. It also noted variations in downtown trips and speeds due to unique commuting patterns, including in Atlanta.
Vehicle volumes and travel times in the city fluctuated, with downtown traffic recovering from pandemic lows. However, it is still below pre-COVID norms.
Moreover, the Atlanta Journal-Constitution reported on various incidents affecting the city’s traffic. It highlighted the impact of regular congestion and disruptions like accidents or road closures. These reports are crucial for understanding and enhancing traffic flow and reducing travel times in the city.
The Impact of Traffic on Personal Injury Cases
Atlanta’s high traffic volume and the accidents that result from it directly affect the city’s personal injury caseload. The distinction belongs to Atlanta as the American city where motorists are most likely to be involved in an accident. In 2019, Atlanta police reported 34,446 car accidents, an all-time high. In 2020, Atlanta recorded 21,478 traffic accidents despite the pandemic and lockdowns. That is an extraordinarily high figure for a city with a population of less than five million.
Although 2023 data isn’t available yet, in 2022, the Atlanta Police Department recorded 29,922 car accidents. This is a slight increase from the 29,794 accidents reported in 2021.
Moreover, the Georgia Governor’s Office of Highway Safety noted that 1,797 Georgians died in traffic accidents in 2021. This figure included 185 motorcyclists, 306 pedestrians, and 15 bicyclists. Fulton County represented nearly 9% of these fatalities, with many suffering from minor and severe injuries due to vehicle accidents.
There has also been a concerning rise in pedestrian fatalities. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has released new data. Currently, pedestrian fatalities in Atlanta make up 17% of all motor vehicle crash deaths. A hit-and-run incident was a factor in about 20% of these pedestrian fatalities.
Role of Personal Injury Lawyers
A personal injury attorney assists the injured party in navigating the legal system following an accident. They strive to guarantee that their clients obtain just compensation for their wounds, missed income, and upcoming medical costs.
A personal injury lawyer in Atlanta is well-versed in Georgia law and understands how traffic patterns can impact injury cases. They can walk you through the court system and explain your rights to you. They can also fight to get you the money you are due.
According to Atlanta Personal Injury Law Firm, many legal firms operate on a contingency fee basis. This means you do not pay until they win compensation on your behalf. They also often offer a free consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which kinds of auto collisions occur most frequently in Atlanta?
Head-on collisions, rear-end collisions, and single-car accidents are commonplace. Tailgating and failing to recognize stopped traffic are common causes of rear-end collisions. Veering into oncoming traffic results in head-on collisions, which are extremely harmful. Vehicles that overturn, hit objects, or exit roads are considered solo incidents.
What causes auto collisions in Atlanta?
There are several ways an auto collision can occur in the busy traffic of Atlanta. Common causes include intoxication, speeding, aggressive driving, exhaustion and car defects. Distracted driving is also a contributor, with activities like texting, eating, or adjusting GPS systems diverting attention from the road. Environmental factors like poor road conditions and adverse weather also play a role, complicating driving.
What can I do to prevent auto accidents in Atlanta?
Avoid driving while distracted. Do not drink and drive, respect speed limits, drive defensively, and use extra caution when the weather is bad. Regular auto maintenance also helps prevent accidents caused by mechanical problems.
What is the filing deadline for a personal injury lawsuit in Georgia?
In Georgia, the general timeframe for filing a personal injury lawsuit is two years from the date of the accident. This period is stipulated by the Georgia Code. It applies to most personal injury cases, including car accidents and wrongful death claims. Additionally, claims involving government entities may have shorter notice periods, requiring action within six months.
So, anyone living in or commuting through Atlanta should understand the city’s traffic patterns and their impact on personal injury cases. Never hesitate to contact a respectable legal practice if you need a personal injury attorney in Atlanta. In your personal injury claim, keep in mind that having the right legal team can make all the difference.
