Georgia Car Accident Statistics 2024 – Traffic Fatalities

Driving in Marietta or the surrounding metro areas can be its own challenge. If you have been involved in a car accident, reach out to a car accident lawyer in Marietta, GA. 

As of December 2023, there has been a nearly 4% decrease in fatal car accidents in Georgia. Despite this positive direction, fatal car accidents are still a significant cause of death throughout the nation and something we still have to be wary of. Accidents happen all the time, especially on the fast-moving highways of GA 400, I-85, I-285, and I-75.

Common Car Accident Causes in Georgia

As of 2024, the common causes of fatal car accidents have not changed. In 2022, there were roughly 15 deaths in car accidents for every 100,000 Georgia residents, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Perhaps what’s most unsettling is how preventable such deaths are. Here are some of the continuously common causes of fatal car accidents:

• Distracted driving: Various random distractions are still the leading cause of car accidents in nearly every state. Every time a driver takes their focus off the road, bad things can happen and often do. While driving, try your hardest to never lose focus and limit distractions. That means no talking on handheld phones, no texting, no eating or drinking, and being aware of your road rage.
• DUIs: Some people continue to drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Not only is it highly illegal and could get you thrown in prison as well as cause you to lose your license, but it is immoral and gets people killed every day. If you have multiple offenses, it could increase your penalty.
• Speeding: Speed limits exist to attempt to dampen how fast drivers should be allowed to go. Not everybody obeys the speed limit. Speeding can reduce your reaction time to a potential accident and puts everybody around you at serious risk.
• Driver fatigue: Driving while tired is just as dangerous as driving under the influence. Your mind is not focused on the road, you are barely aware of your surroundings, and everyone around you is in danger because of your decision to drive while somehow impaired. If you are feeling drowsy, do not risk it.
• Reckless driving: Some people drive with zero regard for the people around them, pedestrians and drivers alike. They don’t use turn signals, they weave in and out of traffic, and they speed excessively. Reckless driving can quickly turn into a terrible accident, so drive sensibly and with focus.
• Equipment failure: Proper auto maintenance is important not just so your car is running smoothly but so nothing terrible happens while you are driving. Making sure your car is fully operational and there are no leaks or cracks can be the difference between life and death if an accident occurs.

Georgia is a fault state when it comes to car accidents, meaning that in order to obtain compensation from an accident, you have to prove the other driver was at fault. An experienced attorney can help you through the process of proving fault and show you the steps you can take toward filing a personal injury claim if it comes to that.

FAQs

Q: How Many Fatalities Occur Yearly in Georgia Due to Car Crashes?

A: According to the Georgia Governor’s Office of Highway Safety, approximately 2,000 people per year are killed in a car accident in Georgia. In 2020, that number was 1,658. In 2021, that number was 1,797. In 2022, that number was 1,982. Fatal accidents occur in Georgia every day, and it is up to responsible drivers to do whatever they can to reduce those numbers. Practice focused, defensive driving, limit distractions, never drive intoxicated or tired, and go the speed limit.

Q: What Is the Leading Cause of Fatalities on Georgia Roads?

A: Like nearly every other state in the union, the leading cause of fatalities on Georgia roads is distracted driving. According to the Georgia Department of Transportation, about 70% of car accident fatalities were caused by some kind of distracted driving. This includes texting while driving, driving too fast, driving while otherwise impaired, and even driving without a seatbelt. It is important to know these statistics so that you are thinking about them while you are driving. Do not become another fatal car accident statistic.

Q: Where Are the Most Car Accidents in Georgia?

A: Out of every county in the state of Georgia, Fulton County had the highest amount of fatal car accidents at 375. Fulton County accounted for at least 9% of all fatal car accidents in the entire state. While this is likely due to the dense population of Fulton County, the main reasons are attributed to a large amount of driving while intoxicated, distracted driving, and rampant speeding.

Q: What Highway in Georgia Has the Most Accidents?

A: Georgia has an intricate highway system that is constantly busy, with vehicles of all shapes and sizes flying down the road at all hours of the day. Among the most dangerous stretches of highway in the state is Interstate 20, particularly from Exit 71 to Exit 65. Between 2018 and 2020, there were 11 fatal accidents on that stretch of road alone. But the deadliest road in Georgia by far is SR-42, which reportedly saw 12 fatal accidents between 2018 and 2020.

Find a Dedicated Car Accident Lawyer Today

At Barnes Law Group, we understand that no matter how careful you attempt to be while driving, an accident can happen at any time. You may not be at fault, but you may become an accident victim regardless. Through a sudden, unthinkable tragedy, you or your loved one could be seriously injured or killed by the thoughtless actions of a reckless driver. But you don’t have to be alone in your pursuit of justice.

We can help you navigate these uncharted waters and emerge on the other side more informed and compensated. Contact us as soon as you can to schedule a consultation. Driving on the busy highways that surround Marietta shouldn’t mean taking your life in your hands. After a collision that was the result of another’s negligence, you deserve fair compensation.