Most Dangerous Roads and Intersections in Atlanta, GA

As the capital of Georgia, Atlanta is a popular place to live. The city is home to diverse businesses and a vibrant culture, but it’s also where some of the most dangerous highways in the country exist. Whether you live in the Peach State or are just passing through, it can be helpful to know more about the most dangerous roads and intersections in Atlanta, GA.

By learning more about the treacherous roadways in Atlanta, you can plan alternate routes to avoid unnecessary risks and exercise caution in situations where you can’t avoid them.

The Top Three Most Dangerous Roadways in Atlanta, GA

Atlanta is home to over five million residents, so it stands to reason that the city is no stranger to high traffic volumes. Any road can be dangerous on any given day, but a few stand out above the rest:

• Interstate 285
• State Route 400
• S. Route 78

Interstate 285 is known as the most dangerous road in Georgia, as well as one of the deadliest interstate highways in the country. I-285 encircles the city of Atlanta, connecting the city to suburbs on all sides.

The reason it’s so dangerous can be attributed to its frequent lane changes, the high traffic volume, and the design of the roadway itself. People are known for driving at excessive speeds, which increases the likelihood of an accident.

State Route 400 is also known as the “Hospitality Highway,” although this is a big misnomer. SR 400 connects the North Georgia mountains to the I-285. That intersection is known for frequent collisions. Additionally, SR 400 is known for its fair share of high-speed traffic and high traffic volumes. The road has a high volume of trucks, which can make accidents all the more dangerous.

U.S. Route 78, or Stone Mountain Freeway, is known as a highly dangerous road in the Atlanta area because of its heavy traffic patterns, high speeds, and sharp curves. The freeway is especially perilous during times of heavy rain when visibility is low and the roads are slick. Stone Mountain Freeway runs through Atlanta on its way from Memphis, TN, to Charleston, SC.

The Most Dangerous Intersections in Atlanta

Accidents all over the world often occur at intersections. In fact, approximately one-third of all motor vehicle accidents reported in the country happen in or near intersections. A couple of the most dangerous intersections in Atlanta, specifically, are off Covington Highway:

• Covington Highway and Panola Road
• Covington Highway and South Hairston Road

These intersections are about a three-minute drive apart from each other and are both known for having a large number of collisions year after year. This is ultimately due to high traffic volumes of mixed types of vehicles. Between the two roads and the nearby I-20, there are a lot of cars traveling through the area from multiple directions at any given time.

Moreover, there are many businesses and restaurants in the area that essentially surround the intersections. This increases both foot traffic and vehicle traffic, which ultimately elevates the riskiness of the intersection.

What to Do if You’re in an Accident in Atlanta, GA?

The dangerous roads and highways are only one of the risks of driving in Georgia. One of the leading causes of motor vehicle accidents in the state is distracted driving. Beyond that, you also have to contend with aggressive drivers, drunk drivers, fatigued drivers, unsafe weather conditions, and more.

It’s important to understand what to do if you’re in a car accident in Atlanta. First, get yourself out of immediate danger and seek medical attention right away if necessary. Once you are out of harm’s way, you can follow these steps:

1. Document the scene of the crime.
2. Exchange information with the other parties involved.
3. Report the accident to the police (get a copy).
4. Report to your insurance company.
5. Consult with an accident lawyer.
6. File a personal injury claim.
7. Enter negotiations.
8. Finalize your settlement or go to trial if necessary.

FAQs

Q: What Is the Deadliest Highway in Atlanta?

A: Interstate 285 is also known as the Perimeter. However, that isn’t its only moniker. It has also been dubbed the “circle of death.” Other dangerous roadways in the Atlanta metropolitan area include State Route 400, U.S. Route 78, Buford Highway, and Interstate 20.

There are also a number of surface streets throughout the city that are known for accidents, such as Clairmont Road, Memorial Drive, and Peachtree Road.

Q: What Makes an Atlanta Road Dangerous?

A: Any number of conditions can make an Atlanta road dangerous, but it mostly boils down to three things: driver error, poor road conditions, and unsafe weather conditions. Bad infrastructure and weather-related events lead to many accidents in Atlanta and beyond. Driver error encompasses dangerous driving behaviors, such as aggressive driving, driving under the influence, reckless driving, speeding, and more.

Q: How Can I Be Safer on the Road in Atlanta, GA?

A: One easy way to stay safe on the road in Atlanta is to exercise patience. Speeding is a factor in the majority of car accidents, and higher speeds typically equate to more severe damages and injuries. Drivers should always lead with caution and obey the rules of the road. By being a defensive driver, you can get places efficiently while avoiding dangerous hazards on the road.

Q: What Are the Most Dangerous Intersections in Atlanta, GA?

A: Intersections are a common location for car accidents, and Atlanta is known for having its fair share of dangerous intersections. These intersections include Covington Highway and Panola Road, Covington Highway and South Hairston Road, Memorial Drive and North Hairston Road, Lenox Road and Peachtree, and many more. It’s important to remember that all intersections can be dangerous when drivers are not careful and considerate. Be sure to exercise caution everywhere.

Get in Touch With a Georgia Personal Injury Lawyer to Discuss a Case

At Barnes Law Group, we understand the frustration of being left to suffer because of someone else’s actions. Our team is dedicated to holding the at-fault party accountable so you can feel better about moving forward with your life. Reach out to our office today to talk to an Atlanta personal injury lawyer about your case in more detail.