Atlanta Drivers Are Driving Recklessly

In Atlanta, the problem of reckless driving is particularly acute, with high-speed crashes and fatalities occurring regularly on major highways and city streets. The Georgia Department of Transportation and local law enforcement agencies have launched numerous campaigns and initiatives aimed at curbing reckless driving in the city including increased patrols, speed cameras, and public awareness campaigns.

According to an article released by Axios, people are driving more recklessly in Georgia in the last couple of years, and the trend only seems to be on the rise. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), speeding is a factor in approximately one-third of all traffic fatalities.

Axios also reported that the construction on I-285/GA. 400 interchange is causing drivers to become confused and frustrated, leading to further reckless driving, such as taking last-minute exits and trying to pass traffic by driving on the shoulder.

(Note: Atlanta in particular is seeing a rise in distracted driving, with Axios reporting that “a 2022 observational study of 20 counties conducted by the Injury Prevention Research Center at Emory University found that nearly 18% of drivers in metro Atlanta were distracted while driving, compared to around 13% elsewhere in Georgia.”)

To combat reckless driving, many states have implemented stricter penalties for these offenses. Some states have also implemented programs to educate drivers on the dangers of reckless driving and the importance of safe driving behaviors. Our state offers a few programs itself, such as the Driver Improvement Program, which is “a 6-hour course designed to teach drivers about safe driving attitudes and behaviors.”

Despite these efforts, reckless driving continues to be a significant problem in Atlanta, and motorists are urged to exercise caution and obey traffic laws at all times to stay safe on the city’s roads. This increase in reckless driving means an increase in injuries and fatalities. If this is the case for you, you need the help of an Atlanta personal injury lawyer to ensure that you are compensated for the harm done to you and your family.

What is reckless driving?

Reckless driving is defined as operating a vehicle with a willful or wanton disregard for the safety of others. This type of driving can take many forms including speeding, tailgating, weaving in and out of traffic, and ignoring traffic signals and signs. Reckless driving is a criminal offense and can result in severe consequences such as fines, license suspension or revocation, and even jail time. In some cases, reckless driving can also result in a civil lawsuit, where the driver can be held liable for any damages or injuries that occurred as a result of their reckless behavior.

Unfortunately, many drivers engage in reckless driving without fully understanding the risks involved.

Why is reckless driving deadly?

Reckless driving is deadly because it significantly increases the risk of car accidents. Speeding, for example, reduces a driver’s ability to react to unexpected situations and increases the distance needed to come to a stop. This can result in a rear-end collision or a collision with another vehicle at an intersection. Similarly, tailgating reduces the distance between two vehicles, making it more likely that a collision will occur if the lead vehicle stops suddenly.

Other types of reckless driving, such as weaving in and out of traffic, can lead to a loss of control of the vehicle, causing a collision or rollover. Ignoring traffic signals and signs can result in a collision with another vehicle or a pedestrian, which can also be deadly.

Reckless driving is dangerous because it puts not only the driver but also passengers, other drivers, and pedestrians at risk. In a collision, the force of impact can cause severe injuries including broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, and spinal cord injuries. In the worst-case scenario, reckless driving can result in fatalities.

Reckless driving is a dangerous behavior that can have severe consequences. It is important for drivers to understand the risks involved and take steps to avoid reckless behavior behind the wheel. By obeying traffic laws and being mindful of other drivers and pedestrians, we can help reduce the number of car accidents caused by reckless driving and ensure safer roads for everyone.

Regardless of how defensively you drive, there will always be other drivers who take things into their own hands. Speeding, distracted driving, and swerving in and out of traffic can lead to catastrophic injuries or even the death of someone close. When you or a loved one is seriously injured in a crash, you need a diligent and passionate legal team on your side. At Harris Lowry Manton LLP, our experienced Atlanta car accident lawyers put you and your family first. We will demand justice for your family. To discuss your case with one of our attorneys, you can schedule a free, confidential consultation by calling us at our Atlanta or Savannah office or filling out our contact form.