It is planned that several major highways in and around Atlanta will be under construction for the next decade. While safe driving is instinctual to some degree, taking a second to consider and plan for any additional risks with regard to road construction can better ensure that you and your precious cargo get from “A” to “B” safely. In 2019, 2.35 million were injured or disabled in car accidents nationwide. While our major roads and highways undergo significant construction in the state of Georgia, the risk of being involved in a car accident and suffering injuries is significantly higher.
So what can you do to stay safe when there’s construction on the road?
Exploring Your Alternatives
It might sound unrealistic, however, when considering the risks involved with being on any road, it’s worth asking ourselves if getting behind the wheel is even necessary. The idea here is not to live in fear but rather, weighing the pros and cons of your alternatives. Maybe with better planning, what you need can be delivered.
When to Hit the Road
As it is, the roads can be trickier to navigate after sundown. During peak hours, the traffic volume poses a risk as well. Google Maps is a great way to get an idea of what to expect and when. This free service allows you to input your destination and departure time to give you an idea of traffic volume and estimated time of arrival. This feature takes road construction into account as well!
Plan Your Route
Sometimes the direct path to your destination is not the best. This is another area where Google Maps can be helpful. This tool can assist with route planning by showing you alternative routes to take. Some of which may have the same or faster drive times than your usual route. This can greatly assist you in avoiding road construction altogether.
Be Mindful Road Conditions
Drivers are expected to know what makes for adverse road conditions. This includes, but is not limited to visibility, construction, and weather. It is required that drivers reduce their speed to less than the posted limit when driving during certain circumstances. This is to keep other drivers as well as road workers safe.
Make Sure Car is Up to Par
Since road construction can result in inconsistent road textures and emergency lane availability, it’s important that drivers are on top of any possible vehicle defects such as brake lights or headlight outages, low tire pressure, or worn brake components just to name a few. Double-checking these items will promote safe travel when driving through road construction.
Recent and Upcoming Road Construction in and around Atlanta:
I-285/Ga. 400 interchange
I-85 widening, Phase 2
Ga. 400 toll lanes
I-285/I-20 east interchange
I-285/I-20 west interchange
I-75 commercial vehicle lanes
I-285/Peachtree Industrial Boulevard interchange
I-285 east side bridges
I-285 westbound auxiliary lane extension
I-285 toll lanes
These tips will help you stay safe as a driver when navigating the current and upcoming road construction. We know that as a driver, there’s only so much you can do to minimize risk.
If you have suffered personal injury as a result of a car accident, give Lloyd a call at (404) 848-8898 or send him a message today. Lloyd H. Thomas is an injury and car accident attorney with the experience and expertise needed to help you properly settle your case.
When the unexpected happens in life and you need help with a car wreck and serious injuries, we are here to help!
