The number of vehicle fatalities in the U.S. saw a significant uptick from 2019 to 2020. Specifically, there was approximately 7.2% more vehicle fatalities in 2020 compared to 2019. Some roadways in the U.S. are more dangerous than others and two of these roadways run straight through Georgia.
Interstates 20 and 75
Interstate 20 is not one of the longest stretches of highways in the U.S., but it is also a very dangerous one. It runs through several high-traffic areas, including Atlanta, Georgia. I-20 had the second-highest rate of fatalities per mile. In 2019, it saw 208 fatalities, or to put it another way, 13.52 fatalities per 100 miles.
Interstate 75 is also a dangerous stretch of highway that runs straight through Georgia. In 2019 there were 237 fatalities on I-75. To put it another way, I-75 saw 13.27 fatalities per 100 miles.
Factors that make these roads dangerous
There are a variety of factors that make these roads, and any other roads, dangerous. One factor is speeding. Driver speed went up in 2020 versus 2019. Some metropolitan areas in 2020 saw a median increase in speed of 22%. Simply put, speeding drivers put other drivers at risk and increases the likelihood of severe to fatal car crashes. A second factor is drunk driving and drugged driving. The number of DUI drivers on the road in 2020 increased compared to 2019. A third factor is the lack of seat belt use. When a motorist does not wear a seat belt it increases the chance that they will be ejected from their vehicle in the event of a crash.
Look out for your best interests
If you are in a car accident in Savannah caused by a reckless driver, it can turn your world upside down. Your physical health is in shambles, you are unable to work, and you have suffered immense pain and suffering. When this happens, you may want to determine if you can pursue a personal injury lawsuit in order to obtain the compensation you are entitled to and hold the reckless driver accountable.