Speeding always puts motorists at risk on Atlanta roads. According to state crash data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there were 1,504 traffic fatalities across Georgia in 2018. Approximately 267 were speed-related.
One thing that often keeps drivers from exceeding the speed limit is traffic congestion. With less traffic congestion due to COVID-19, more drivers may feel the urge to drive at unsafe speeds. According to the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA), this trend has been happening across the nation.
Not only do speeders see the empty roads as an opportunity to behave recklessly, they are also under the impression that police aren't out enforcing traffic laws.
“While COVID-19 is clearly our national priority, our traffic safety laws cannot be ignored,” said GHSA Executive Director Jonathan Adkins.
Police identify an uptick in speeding
Law enforcing officers across the state of Georgia have caught some drivers traveling at speeds of 100 mph and greater, according to FOX5 Atlanta. One driver's excuse was he was "looking for a bathroom." The police officer who pulled him over wasn't buying it.
In some cases, police weren't able to catch drivers traveling more than 100 mph. One driver even wrecked his car and fled the crash scene on foot after being clocked at 116 mph. He turned himself in to police the following day.
Why is speeding dangerous?
Many people exceed the speed limit because they are either stressed out or in a hurry to get from point A to point B. Some people do it for fun, especially those who are involved in drag racing or speeding for the thrill of it. Others are impaired by drugs and/or alcohol.
Speeding is dangerous for the following reasons:
- Loss of vehicle control
- Reduced reaction time
- Requires more stopping time and distance
- Damage and injuries are more severe
- Reduced effectiveness of safety features, such as airbags, seatbelts, and front-end
Speed-related crashes often result in:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Broken or fractured bones
- Spinal injuries
- Soft tissue injuries
- Amputations
- Facial injuries
- Paralysis
- Death
Car accident lawyer serving Atlanta's injured
If you were involved in a crash with someone who was speeding, it's critical that you get medical attention as soon as possible and then speak to an experienced Atlanta car accident attorney.
The Law Offices of Gary Martin Hays urges everyone to stay safe while driving. If you or a loved one is injured in a crash caused by a speeder, contact our law office and schedule your free case evaluation.
We'll go over the details surrounding your crash and devise a legal strategy to help you recover all financial damages including medical costs, wage loss, pain, and suffering.
Find a location near you