Data by the Georgia Governor’s Office of Highway Safety shows Georgia car accident fatalities are on the rise. In 2018, there were 74 more traffic fatalities than in 2017. And in 2022, the number of traffic fatalities in Georgia rose to 1,797. Several factors contribute to motor vehicle accidents in Georgia.
Traffic
Based on information from the United States Census Bureau, Georgia has a population of 10.8 million people. Even with the availability of public transportation, Georgia has a lot of motor vehicles on the roads. Motor vehicle accidents are more common in areas with lots of traffic.
Distraction
Distracted driving is more common than ever before. Drivers have phones, food, music, conversation and other passengers that can cause distractions. A distracted driver isn’t paying attention to the road, which can easily lead to an accident.
Speeding
Speeding is the number one cause of traffic fatalities in Georgia. It’s easy to lose control of a speeding car and cause an accident.
DUI
Driving under the influence (DUI) of drugs or alcohol often contributes to motor vehicle accidents. Impaired drivers are likelier to take risks and make bad decisions and mistakes.
Weather
Driving in rain, snow or fog can cause a driver to get into an accident. Decreased visibility can occur when weather conditions are bad. Ice and wet or snowy roads can make roads slippery and a hazard.
It’s possible to reduce the risk of car accidents by engaging in safe driving practices. For example, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that speeding accounted for 29 percent of traffic fatalities in 2021. Obeying the speed limit can decrease speeding-related accidents. Driving safely makes the roads safer for everyone.