December marks the start of an exciting time of year near Pritchard Injury Firm’s offices in Cartersville and Woodstock, GA and Chattanooga, TN. We enjoy being able to walk right over to various civic engagements, music festivals, holiday events and Santa sightings.

But we realize that many people are driving to and from these high-traffic areas during the busiest time of year, and want to make sure everyone uses caution before taking to the road and joining in on the celebrations.

North Georgia Auto Accident Statistics

Several avoidable traffic fatalities and non-fatal crashes were reported during the holidays in Georgia. Details from the past two years are public via the Georgia Department of Transportation (DOT):

• In 2022, traffic crashes across Georgia during the Christmas holiday travel period resulted in 13 traffic deaths resulting from 10 fatal crashes. This 78-hour travel period began Dec. 23 and ended on Dec. 26.
• In 2023, Georgia State Patrol (GSP) Troopers investigated 14 fatal traffic crashes, and local law enforcement agencies investigated 10 fatal traffic crashes resulting in 24 deaths across Georgia during the 102-hour Christmas and 102-hour New Year’s holiday travel periods. There were 15 fatalities during Christmas and nine during New Year’s.

Several other non-fatal auto and truck accidents resulted in catastrophic injuries, burns, and traumatic brain injuries. The causes of these accidents ranged from aggressive and distracted driving to drunk driving and unsafe road conditions.

Chattanooga Auto Accident Statistics

There is so much to celebrate in Chattanooga, Tennessee, in December. The city lights up, literally, thanks to the Holiday Trail of Lights. But you should be aware of the safety risks on the road and indoors to ensure safe and enjoyable festivities.

Tennessee DOT released an interactive chart detailing the fatal and serious injury crashes. A closer look at Chattanooga reveals 14 total crashes in December 2022 – with two fatalities, and 15 total crashes in December 2023, also with two fatalities.

From 2022 to November 2024, the demographic data demonstrates how vulnerable our older and younger residents are while on the road.

• Senior drivers (ages 65-99) were involved in 111 crashes.
• Teen drivers (ages 13-19) were involved in 16 crashes.
• Vulnerable road users:
  • 66 crashes involved pedestrians.
  • 12 crashes involved cyclists.
  • 98 crashes involved motorcyclists.

This data is heartbreaking, because they impact people of all ages who were on their way home, to their jobs, or enjoying a trip. And the majority of these accidents were preventable, and you can avoid them as well by following traffic laws and safety rules.

Safety Tips for Drivers in North Georgia and Chattanooga

The top reasons for these accidents include speeding, alcohol, and low visibility. Drivers need to be extra vigilant this time of year:

• Observe the posted speed limit. When you exceed the speed limit, you reduce the amount of time needed to avoid a traffic crash.
• Do not drive impaired. Designate a sober driver, call a taxi, rideshare service, friend, or family member to get you home safely.
• Stay alert. School will be out soon, and people will take vacations. More pedestrians will be outside, and drivers should always give them the right of way.
• Follow the social media accounts of the cities you’ll be visiting. They will provide real-time traffic and safety updates.

Bicycle and Pedestrian Safety in North Georgia and Chattanooga

As recently discussed, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) ranked Georgia and Tennessee in the top 10 most dangerous states for pedestrians in 2022. And December is a time when there’s more activity on the roads for drivers, pedestrians and cyclists.

Plan a safe route, and try to avoid areas and intersections in North Georgia and Tennessee known to be dangerous for cyclists and pedestrians. Some best practices include:

• Remain predictableby making eye contact with drivers before crossing the street and avoid sudden movements that can catch drivers off guard.
• Wearing bright or reflective clothing to increase your visibility to drivers, especially at night, when hit-and-run accidents frequently occur.
• Always walk on sidewalks or paths. If there are no sidewalks, walk facing traffic as far to the left as possible.
• Once you reach your destination, be alert around dogs and pets. Never approach a dog or pet without the owner’s presence or consent. Dog bites can be extremely severe, painful and costly.

Your North Georgia and Chattanooga Accident Lawyer

Vibrant North Georgia cities like Woodstock and Cartersville and Chattanooga, Tennessee have various holiday celebrations and attractions throughout December. Vigilance is needed on the road so you can reach your destination safely.

If you or a loved one were injured due to the negligence or recklessness of a driver, building owner or another individual, our attorneys are here to help. The mission of Pritchard Injury Firm is to provide you and your family with the highest quality of legal help available and a professional, stress-free experience. Contact us today.