Metro Atlanta’s roadways are among the busiest in the Southeast, with high traffic volumes on interstates like I-285, I-75, and I-85. Unfortunately, this congestion doesn’t stop reckless drivers from speeding, leading to catastrophic high-speed crashes that put lives at risk. At Ashby Thelen Lowry, our experienced Georgia personal injury attorneys help victims of these dangerous collisions seek justice and compensation.
Why Are High-Speed Crashes So Dangerous?
Speeding significantly increases the likelihood of a crash and the severity of injuries sustained.
At high speeds:
- Reaction times are reduced, making it harder to avoid sudden obstacles.
- Stopping distances increase, leading to rear-end collisions and loss of control.
- Impact forces are more significant, causing more severe injuries and fatalities.
Understanding what causes high-speed crashes in Metro Atlanta is crucial to preventing them and holding negligent drivers accountable.
Interstate and Highway Speeding
With the fast-paced traffic flow on Atlanta’s major highways, many drivers ignore posted speed limits and travel well above the legal limit. Aggressive driving, tailgating, and weaving between lanes only amplify the danger. Even minor distractions can turn deadly when drivers speed on interstates like Georgia 400 or I-20.
Reckless and Aggressive Driving
Atlanta has its share of aggressive drivers who engage in reckless behaviors such as:
- Excessive speeding.
- Tailgating.
- Sudden lane changes.
- Ignoring traffic signals.
These dangerous actions often result in devastating crashes, particularly when drivers lose control of their vehicles at high speeds.
Drunk or Drug-Impaired Driving
Alcohol and drugs impair judgment, slow reaction times, and make it harder for drivers to gauge their speed. Drunk drivers in Atlanta frequently exceed speed limits, leading to crashes with catastrophic consequences. High-speed DUI collisions often occur at night on I-75, I-85, and local roads like Peachtree Street or Ponce de Leon Avenue.
Distracted Driving at High Speeds
Texting, adjusting GPS, or talking on the phone while speeding makes it even harder to react to sudden changes in traffic. Georgia’s Hands-Free Law prohibits holding a phone while driving, but many drivers ignore this rule, leading to high-speed collisions.
Poor Weather Conditions
Rain, fog, and ice can make Metro Atlanta roads hazardous, especially when drivers fail to adjust their speed. High-speed crashes during storms or on wet roads often result in multi-vehicle pileups due to reduced visibility and slick surfaces.
Injured in a High-Speed Crash? We Can Help.
At Ashby Thelen Lowry, we fight for victims of high-speed crashes, helping them recover compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If you or a loved one has been injured due to a reckless driver in Metro Atlanta, contact our Atlanta personal injury attorneys today for a free consultation.