Running just under 64 miles, I-285 is consistently named one of America’s deadliest stretches of road. While the number of fatal motor vehicle accidents varies from year to year, sometimes even dipping, I-285 is frequently listed among the top 10 most dangerous interstates. In 2015, I-285 was named the deadliest highway in America – and with several fatal accidents having already occurred this year, it may well be awarded that horrible title again.
As anyone living in Atlanta knows, I-285 is made dangerous by a combination of factors. These include heavy commuter traffic, a number of sharp turns, and a large number of tractor-trailers. Truck traffic is particularly heavy at the intersection of I-285 and I-85, commonly known as Spaghetti Junction. According to the Ledger-Enquirer, this interchange is the “single worst bottleneck for truck traffic in the entire United States.” However, truck traffic at the interchanges of I-75 and I-20 are not much better and those driving through these areas – particularly during rush hour – know first-hand how treacherous it can be to navigate them.
HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF
If you use I-285, it is essential that you take extra precautions. These include:
- Turning your cellphone off. At the least, your cellphone should be muted to remove the distraction it provides. Remember: all handheld cellphone use is illegal while driving in Atlanta.
- Avoiding common distractions. In addition to your phone, avoid manipulating GPS, a car radio, or on-board entertainment systems. Shave and apply makeup at home or at work, not in your car.
- Driving sober. Intoxicated drivers pose large safety risks to everyone on the road. This is even more true in heavy traffic.
- Driving calm. Aggressive driving is a factor in more than 50% of all fatal car accidents. Aggressive driving includes speeding, tailgating, erratic lane changes, running red lights, and similarly discourteous and threatening behaviors.
When you drive sober, calm, and attentive, you greatly increase reaction time, lowering your risks of causing or being involved in an accident.
WHEN YOU ARE INJURED
No matter how safe, intentional, and courteous your own driving, I-285 can still pose a serious risk. If you are involved in a truck accident or any other type of motor vehicle accident, you may be entitled to compensation beyond the settlement offer from an insurance company. We encourage you to contact our office right away to schedule a free consultation where we can review your case and help you determine the best way to move forward.
Tragically, injury is not the biggest concern with accidents on I-285. If you have lost a loved one in an accident, your family may be entitled to compensation for both economic damages -such as projected lost wages- and noneconomic damages, including emotional duress. Our compassionate attorneys are here to help your family through this time, serving to protect you from predatory insurance companies while fighting for the true compensation you are due. Caring, committed, and tenacious, our lawyers welcome an opportunity to meet with you, allowing us to listen to your story and to help you decide how to proceed.
If you have been injured or a loved one has been killed on I-285 or anywhere in Georgia, please call Lourie, Chance, Forlines, Carter & King at 404-760-7400 to schedule a free consultation today. Located in Atlanta, we serve victims of serious injury and family members dealing with wrongful death throughout the state of Georgia.