In Georgia, there is no shortage of traffic safety signs warning drivers of construction work or changing traffic patterns. In Metro Atlanta, many of these safety signs are prominently displayed above 6-8 lane interstates and highways. While the goal of these signs is to provide information to drivers, there is concern that some signs are actually increasing the risk of accidents.
On Georgia roadways, it is common to see large signs flashing messages including:
- “Don’t Drink and Drive”
- “Texting While Driving is Illegal”
- “Watch for Motorcycles”
- “Drive Safe – Arrive Alive”
And then some signs have statistics on the number of accidents and fatalities that have occurred in specific cities, or on specific roadways. These are the signs that appear to be causing an increase in accident rates.
Study Shows Traffic Safety Signs May Increase Accident Risk
A recent study suggested that certain traffic safety signs may increase the risk of fatal accidents. The study found that roads where traffic signs display the number of fatal accidents had a slightly higher fatal accident rate.
The study, which was published in Science, found that there was a 1.35% increase in fatal accidents on roads where signs display the fatal accident tally. In the five-mile stretch following these signs, the rate increased by 1.52%. That small percentage may not seem like a lot, but when you consider the already high rate of accidents in Georgia, it is actually quite alarming.
According to the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT), in 2020, the most recent data year available, there were 1,588 fatal accidents on Georgia roadways. The estimated 1.5% increase would mean an additional 24 people lost their lives. That is substantial loss of life.
Why Are Safety Signs Increasing Accident Rates?
Researchers are still considering numerous possibilities as to why traffic safety signs seem to be causing more accidents. Possible explanations for this phenomenon include:
- Drivers may experience information overload as they digest the data.
- Drivers may actually be distracted by the signs as they try to read what they say.
What Are The Common Causes Of A Road Accident?
Here we have listed the most common causes of road accidents.
Driving while being distracted
Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of road accidents. The brain is not capable of concentrating on more than a single task at the same time. It implies that if the driver is on a call, texting, chatting, reading, or eating while driving, the brain is shifting between those tasks and is incapable of concentrating on the road ahead.
Drunk Driving
Drunk driving is accountable for 29 deaths every day on average. However, as a result of new educational efforts, the number of deaths connected to drunk driving is gradually decreasing. If you had a drink at any occasion or an event, it is better not to drive under the alcoholic influence. Instead, ask a friend or book a cab to get you home.
Over Speeding
Some leading causes of speeding-related accidents are being late for work, avoiding traffic, or driving over the speed limit. If the vehicle is moving at a high speed, it is more likely to be involved in accidents than slow vehicles. In addition, the severity of accidents is high in the case of over speed vehicles. In short, the higher the speed, the greater the danger.
At high speeds, the vehicle requires more braking distance to come to a stop. A slower car can stop quickly, whereas a faster vehicle needs a long time to come to a complete halt and also skids a lengthy distance. A car traveling at a rapid rate will have a higher impact during a collision, resulting in more injuries.
Weather Conditions
Rain, sleet, or ice on the road reduces tire traction, leading vehicles to skid off the road or collide with different objects or vehicles. Weather-related accidents may also be influenced by mist, wind speed, and water levels.
Not following red lights and stop signs
Nearly 40% of car accidents happen at intersections, and the most common reason is driving through a red light or failing to stop at a stop sign. It is better to stop at the stop signs and avoid the risk of accidents.
A red light runner endangers not only his own life but also the lives of other people on the road. This action by one car may encourage others to follow, resulting in commotion at the crossing. The primary reason for traffic bottlenecks is the chaos at junctions. Ultimately, almost everyone will become late to reach their destinations.
Reckless and aggressive driving
Reckless driving includes things like changing lanes too promptly, disrespecting the safety rules, and deliberately avoiding the safety precautions. The combination of traffic infractions that jeopardizes other drivers or property, including speeding, is considered aggressive driving.
Fatigue
Getting sleepy, tiredness, or weariness can impede a driver’s capacity to see, react, or interpret driving circumstances competently.
Road Conditions
If the roads are poorly maintained, they boost the likelihood of a popped tire and impair a driver’s ability to brake effectively.
Defects in vehicle
Automobiles are made up of hundreds of parts that work together to operate safely. However, with so many components, sometimes a few parts may malfunction.
What To Do After An Accident In Georgia
If you are involved in an accident on a Georgia roadway, it is important to take certain steps to keep yourself safe. Sadly, many fatal accidents in Georgia occur while a motorist is outside their vehicle due to an accident or breakdown.
If you are in an accident, here are some important reminders:
- If you can, move yourself and your vehicle to the side of the road.
- Get as far away from moving traffic as possible.
- Call 911 and request police and emergency technicians if there is damage, or if there are injuries.
- Avoid conflict with other parties involved.
- Get medical attention, even if you don’t think you are injured badly.
- Contact your insurance company to report the accident.
If you are injured in an accident that was caused by someone else, you should also contact a Georgia personal injury lawyer. You may be able to pursue compensation from the person/party that caused the accident. Contact The Embry Law firm, or visit embrylawfirm.com to learn more.
