To reduce car accident injuries and improve road safety, Georgia has been awarded $2.78 million to support a variety of accident-prevention initiatives. These projects will focus on educating drivers and improving the collection of critical accident data to help state officials make informed decisions.
“This long-standing, unique partnership between highway safety and public health helps promote a safer Georgia,” said Kathleen E. Toomey, M.D., M.P.H., commissioner of the Georgia Department of Public Health, in a statement to WSB 2 News Atlanta. “This programmatic support has made a difference for Georgians and continues to save lives and prevent injuries.”
While prevention efforts are crucial, accidents still happen. If you’ve been injured in a crash caused by a negligent driver, it’s important to seek legal advice. A Georgia car accident lawyer can help you understand your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.
Georgia Car Accident Injury Prevention Projects
The Georgia Department of Public Health was awarded $2.78 million from the Governor’s Office of Highway Safety, funded by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The funds will support several initiatives aimed at reducing car accidents and improving driver safety across the state. Key projects include:
- $1,743,636.75 for the Child Occupant Safety Project (COSP) to provide child car seats, educate the public on proper usage, and offer statewide training for healthcare and public safety officials.
- $343,955.46 for the Crash Outcome Data Evaluation System (CODES) to gather and analyze accident data statewide, identifying trends to prevent future crashes.
- $257,097.02 for the Georgia Emergency Medical Services Information System (GEMSIS) to upgrade its trauma data collection system used by emergency responders at accident scenes.
- $218,977.93 for the 55+ Driver Safety Program, which offers workshops and presentations to educate senior drivers on safe driving as they age.
- $214,890.84 for the Office of Health Indicators for Planning, which collects and shares data on car accident-related ER visits, injuries, and fatalities through public reports, maps, and charts.
Are Car Accident Fatalities on the Rise in Georgia?
Car accident injury and fatality rates in Georgia have generally increased over the years, though some fluctuations occur.
In 2023, Georgia saw a slight improvement, with 1,638 deaths—an 8.8% decrease compared to the 1,797 fatalities reported in 2022, according to WSB 2 News Atlanta based on the latest NHTSA data.
However, when compared to a decade ago, the numbers tell a different story. In 2013, car accidents statewide resulted in 1,180 fatalities. By 2023, that figure had risen by 38.8%, underscoring the long-term rise in deadly crashes across Georgia.
What Are Common Causes of Car Accidents in Georgia?
Car accidents in Georgia often share similar contributing factors, many of which are preventable. According to the Georgia Governor’s Office of Highway Safety, some of the most common causes of car crashes include:
- Drunk Driving: In 2022, alcohol-related crashes led to 507 fatalities across the state.
- Speeding: Excessive speed was a factor in 422 deaths in the same year.
- Distracted Driving: Zutobi reports at least 49 deaths caused by distracted driving in 2022, though the real number is likely much higher since many of these incidents go unreported.
Additional factors, such as aggressive driving, failure to yield, and drowsy driving, also contribute to serious accidents.
Why You Need an Atlanta Car Accident Lawyer on Your Side
Even with millions invested in prevention efforts, serious car accidents still happen every day due to reckless and negligent drivers. The statistics are more than just numbers—they represent real people whose lives have been changed in an instant. Unfortunately, insurance companies often make the situation even harder by downplaying claims or denying compensation altogether.
At the Law Offices of Gary Martin Hays & Associates, our experienced Atlanta car accident lawyers know how to take on insurance companies and win. With over $1 billion recovered for Georgia families—including a $3.25 million settlement for a car accident injury victim—our case results illustrate the difference skilled legal representation can make.
If you’ve been injured in a crash, don’t let an insurance company decide what your case is worth. Contact the Law Offices of Gary Martin Hays & Associates today for a free consultation and find out how we can help you fight for the compensation you deserve.
“For anyone that needs a great law firm, please consider Gary Martin Hays and Associates.” – Valerie W., ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
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