Holiday Road Trip Safety Tips for Atlanta Drivers

Heading to the mountains, the beach, or a family gathering across state lines? Holiday road trips are a tradition for many Atlanta families. However, with packed interstates, unpredictable weather, and higher rates of reckless driving, these trips carry real risks.

At Shiver Hamilton Campbell, we’ve represented far too many people whose lives were changed by holiday crashes. Before you hit the road this season, our Atlanta car accident lawyer shares how to protect your loved ones and what to do if another driver’s negligence causes a crash.

Common Hazards That Make Holiday Road Travel in Georgia More Dangerous

Holiday weekends bring a surge in travel across Georgia, especially on I-75, I-20, I-285, and other major routes around Atlanta. Unfortunately, traffic congestion, holiday stress, and rushing to keep up with tight schedules can lead to unsafe behaviors that put everyone at risk.

According to the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT), nearly 150,000 people are injured each year in car accidents throughout the state, and the holidays are the most common time of year for them to occur. Common hazards that pose risks during holiday road trips include:

• Drowsy driving from early departures or long hours behind the wheel.
• Speeding to make up for traffic delays.
• Using cellphones, changing GPS settings, and other types of distracted driving.
• Impaired driving due to alcohol, illegal drugs, or even certain prescribed medicines.

Even if you’re cautious, others around you may not be. Being aware of the risks ahead of time can help you drive defensively and avoid otherwise preventable car accidents in Atlanta.

How to Stay Safe on Georgia Roads This Holiday Season

Due to the high number of crashes and collisions that occur over the holidays, the National Safety Council (NSC) urges drivers to make safety a top priority. Whether you are visiting Atlanta or traveling to see loved ones throughout the state, take these precautions:

• Get your tire pressure, brakes, fluid levels, and lights checked before you go.
• Plan your route in advance and check traffic and weather conditions.
• Share the driving if possible to avoid fatigue.
• Set realistic arrival times and avoid rushing.
• Be a considerate driver and give other motorists plenty of space.
• Avoid getting behind the wheel if alcohol is part of your plans.

While traveling, keep your insurance information, driver’s license, and vehicle registration easily accessible. If you’re involved in a crash, notify the police immediately, get the other driver’s information, seek medical attention, and avoid downplaying your injuries or admitting liability.

Injured in a Holiday Crash? Contact Our Experienced Atlanta Car Accident Lawyer

Were you hurt in a holiday car accident in Georgia? When another driver is to blame, you have the right to hold them liable. At Shiver Hamilton Campbell, we protect crash victims, helping them get the compensation they are entitled to.

Our experienced Atlanta car accident lawyers represent clients throughout the area, including Sandy Springs, Roswell, Marietta, Decatur, and all of Gwinnett, DeKalb, and Fulton Counties. To get the total amount you need to cover your losses, contact our office and request a consultation today.

Sources:

gdot.aashtowaresafety.net/crash-data#/

nsc.org/community-safety/safety-topics/seasonal-safety/winter-safety/holiday?srsltid=AfmBOopgyd0bhKoxqcaRKO3fqqMXLC9sXtgDpnFJOFWoV8lsRXEVN6wx