Rear-End Car Accidents In Atlanta: How Stop-and-Go Traffic Increases Crash Risks
If you commute in Atlanta, you already know how unpredictable stop-and-go traffic can be. Sudden braking on I-75, I-85, I-285, or major surface roads like Peachtree Street turns everyday drives into stressful experiences. Unfortunately, this type of traffic also leads to a high number of rear-end car accidents. Even at low speeds, these crashes can cause debilitating injuries.
Our experienced Atlanta car accident lawyer regularly helps commuters and other travelers in rear-end crashes and knows firsthand how challenging these claims can be. If you’re dealing with pain, medical bills, and pushback from an insurance company, find out what you need to know to protect your rights.
Reckless Driving In Heavy Traffic: A Common Cause of Atlanta Rear-End Collisions
The Georgia Department of Health reports that car accidents are one of the top causes of severe, potentially life-threatening personal injuries throughout the state. They are particularly common in Atlanta and pose significant risks in stop-and-go traffic.
In addition to being frustrating for drivers, bumper-to-bumper traffic increases the risk of rear-end collisions. There’s little room for error, as drivers constantly accelerate and brake. Reckless driving behavior that increases the risks includes:
- Driving distracted, such as texting or using navigation apps;
- Following too closely, leaving no time to stop;
- Driver fatigue, especially during long commutes;
- Sudden braking due to congestion or construction;
- Speeding between traffic slowdowns, increasing impact force;
- Aggressive driving, including lane hopping and tailgating.
Even at lower speeds, rear-end collisions can cause serious injuries, often impacting the neck, spine, shoulders, and head. While symptoms may appear minor at the scene, get medical care right away to protect your health and your rights to compensation.
Atlanta Rear-End Car Accident Claims Are Often Undervalued
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports rear-end crashes account for roughly a third of all car accidents. While common, insurance companies tend to minimize these claims. Common tactics include:
- Blaming you for causing the crash.
- Downplaying your injuries and how they happened.
- Questioning why you waited to get medical care.
- Disputing the impact they have on your life and ability to work.
They may also offer a quick, low-ball settlement, before doctors have a chance to determine the full extent of harm suffered. Once you accept, you waive any right to future compensation, which could leave you paying out of pocket for future care and any impacts on your income.
Injured in a Rear-End Collision? Contact Us Today to Get Our Experienced Atlanta Car Accident Lawyer On Your Side
Rear-end accidents in Atlanta are common in heavy traffic throughout the city and can leave you and your passengers suffering serious harm. At Shiver Hamilton Campbell, our experienced Atlanta car accident lawyer provides personalized client service and knowledgeable legal representation to victims, helping them get the compensation they deserve.
Our office serves clients in Alpharetta, Decatur, Johns Creek, Jonesboro, Marietta, Roswell, Sandy Springs, Savannah, St. Simons Island, and all of Gwinnett, Fulton, and DeKalb Counties. To get our legal team on your side, call or contact us online today to schedule a consultation.
Sources:
dph.georgia.gov/health-topics/injury-prevention-program/cdc-core/motor-vehicle-crashes
nhtsa.gov/sites/nhtsa.gov/files/811331.pdf
