Endless construction. A confusing maze of new lanes and merge exchanges. Tractor-trailers plunging off bridges and deadly multi-car pile ups.

If you ever thought the I-285 and GA 400 interchange was the most stressful part of the Perimeter, recent crash data backs this sentiment up.

According to the Georgia DOT, that section of I-285 is the most crash-prone area, with at least 1,611 car wrecks along both sides of the interstate in 2023. Frequent crashes occurred at Ashford Dunwoody Road, as well as the exits and interchanges of Peachtree Boulevard, Buford Highway, and I-85.

For perspective though, about 400,000 vehicles pass through the area daily. So only a fraction of traffic winds up involved in a traumatic accident.

In Terms of Fatalities

When comparing crash severity to other places around the Perimeter, the interchange experienced only five fatalities last year. So while more crashes happen around 400 due to high volume and risky driving behavior, they are less severe than places like the western wall.

Driver Behavior vs. Construction Zone

Construction has been ongoing at the 400 interchange since 2017, but the DOT says only 1% of crashes are related to construction activities. Meanwhile, 80% of crashes are attributed to drivers speeding, tailgating, and improper lane changing.

(The DOT did not answer the AJC’s questions about whether lane closures could cause drivers to improperly change lanes.)

The original 285/400 interchange was designed to accommodate up to 100,000 vehicles, causing significant delays and backups as the volume of commuters increased. Construction caused heavy traffic in the early phases, but has also brought a decrease in accidents since drivers are forced to go slower speeds.

The project is expected to be completed in the Fall of 2024. The GA DOT expects the revamped interchange to increase safety and efficiency for all drivers.

However, that doesn’t mean the end of road work. Other major projects, such as toll lanes on 400 and 285, will ensure Atlanta drivers endure construction-related headaches for years to come.

Driver Responsibility for Crashes

The future aside, drivers have a responsibility each time they get behind the wheel to ensure the safety of everyone on or near the road.

Speeding, last-second lane changes or merges, and taking unnecessary risks due to running late or impatience, especially in construction areas, puts people at risk for severe injuries or death.

Construction worker lives should be valued. Fellow drivers’ space should be respected.

Next Steps After a Crash

A person injured in a crash due to another driver’s mistake, recklessness, or aggression may have the right to claim compensation for medical care and other expenses.

Contact a personal injury attorney for help with Atlanta car accident injuries and insurance. Gary Martin Hays & Associates hold negligent drivers accountable and negotiate with the insurance companies on injured victims’ behalf.

Our law firm also fights for injured construction workers and workers driving on the road. We make sure they and their families receive the Georgia workers’ compensation benefits they deserve.

Don’t delay after a construction zone crash or other type of severe incident. Contact a severe injury lawyer to protect your rights and make the insurance company take you seriously.