- Car Accidents
Distracted driving on Georgia’s highways and roads has become an even greater threat than ever before. It has turned into a deadly epidemic that shows no signs of declining anytime soon. In 2019, 3,142 people lost their lives in distraction-related car crashes which is 10 percent higher than the previous year.
According to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Georgia traffic fatalities have been rising significantly this year and distracted driving is reported as the primary cause of it. Despite the fact that the traffic substantially decreased on the roads in 2020 by the Coronavirus pandemic, Georgia saw a spike in traffic deaths. Reports from the Georgia Department of Transportation show a 9% increase over 2019. Distracted driving on Georgia’s highways has become a public safety hazard which is why it needs to be addressed very intently.
Cause of Distracted Driving on Georgia’s Highways:
Recent surveys conclude that with the advancement in car technologies and sophisticated smartphones, the problem of distracted driving on Georgia’s highways is foreseen to get worse in the coming years. Nearly half of past years’ fatal accidents involved just one vehicle; the vehicle veered off the road and crashed into a fixed object, such as a bridge or a tree.
According to officials, the significant rise in the number of single-vehicle crashes this year is a clear indication that many of them were caused by distracted driving. Single-vehicle crashes happen when the driver is distracted enough to not realize that he is drifting out of his lane or off the road until it is too late.
1. Cell Phones:
The whole world is now being reduced to cell phones and as much as it makes us technologically advanced, it also makes us greatly dependent on them. Now, people tend to multitask and use their phones while driving either to use GPS, make payments, do trading, and whatnot. This keeps their eyes and mind off the road for a longer time than just picking up the call. It comes as little surprise that cell phones are the major cause of distracted driving leading to fatal car accidents.
AT&T discovered in their recent study that 70 percent of smartphone users also engage in distracted driving. Moreover, 40 percent of smartphone users admitted that they engage with social media platforms, such as Instagram, Facebook and, Twitter, while driving. Video chatting behind the wheel was also found as one of the habits in 10 percent of smartphone users.
2. Eating or Drinking:
As much as people underestimate the threat of eating and drinking while driving, it is one of the major causes of car crashes. According to NHTSA, distracted drivers who eat and drink while driving cause 65 percent of near-miss car accidents. If you’re eating or drinking while driving, it will increase the chances of getting in a car accident by 80 percent.
3. Other Causes of Distracted Driving:
Besides the two major causes of distracted driving, there are some others that are never regarded as a threat while they have been known to cause numerous fatalities. A few of such causes are, talking to passengers, fiddling with the stereo, grooming, day-dreaming, and more. Anything that has the potential of taking your attention off safe driving.
Laws Against Distracted Driving on Georgia’s Highways:
Every state legislature has its own laws regarding distracted driving. Many states have already implemented laws against talking on a cell phone, texting, and other distractions while driving. You can learn about the laws of distracted driving in your state from the Governors Highway Safety Association.
Contacting A Georgia Car Accident Attorney:
If you have been seriously injured in a car accident in Georgia caused by distracted driving, you should turn to a Georgia auto accident attorney. This is an important step to demand accountability and seek compensation as soon as possible. And since you are only provided with one chance to bring your case, you need the best guidance you can get from an attorney.
How Can A Georgia Auto Accident Attorney Help:
An experienced Georgia auto accident attorney guides you through the available legal options, including possible financial compensation. The auto accident lawyer can help with every aspect of your claim. A good attorney will:
- Keenly listen to your concerns and try to address them in the best possible way.
- Work with experts to confirm the cause of the accident.
- Personally investigate the facts and get in contact with all responsible parties.
- Keep you updated about the progress your accident case is making.
- Gather evidence that is required to build a strong case.
- Consult with medical professionals to learn the extent of your injuries.
- Estimate medical expenses that you might face in the future due to your accident injuries.
- Deal with the insurance company.
- Negotiate a settlement covering all your expenses.
The car crash lawyers of Wade Law Offices are well-versed in the car accident laws of Georgia. Our Georgia car accident lawyers are experienced in handling all types of car crash cases. If you have been involved in a distracted driving car accident, contact us and our experienced lawyers will get you the full and fair compensation you deserve.