In April of this year, the Georgia Department of Transportation was rumored to have been considering an increase in the speed limit on Interstate 285. This ten MPH increase would make the new limit 65 MPH, which made many that navigate this stretch on a daily basis relieved. This suggested change came just after Texas allowed an 85 MPH speed limit on one road, which is the highest in the country. The goal of the GDOT was to allow drivers to navigate quicker and more safely on roads that are rider due to construction.
This change was approved, but the methods of implementation were questionable. The outcome was that Georgia transportation officials approved a variable speed technology on I-285. These electronic speed limit signs will be installed on parts of I-285 and will allow speed limits to change depending on weather and traffic conditions. The speed limit will be made 65 on the entire perimeter, while both sides of I-285 will have these new changeable signs installed.
As Marietta car accident attorneys, we were weary of irrational increases in the speed limits on metro-Atlanta roads. The potential outcomes of these higher speeds are worrisome, so our office hoped for a careful analysis of the potential effects. A 65 MPH speed limit seems reasonable, but during certain conditions can be dangerous. Raising the overall speed limit on roads also poses threats because many drivers regularly drive at least 10 MPH above the legal speed limits throughout Georgia. By raising the legal limit to 65 on I-285, it is likely that many motorists will travel a 75 MPH, which is dangerous for themselves and others on the road in congested areas such as this. If auto accidents occur at high speeds, the bodies of vehicles simply can’t handle the impact and is likely to collapse, causing serious injuries. Traveling at 75 MPH makes it difficult for any vehicle to stop suddenly, which makes avoiding an accident much more difficult.
The new ability to change speed limits based on weather and traffic conditions is an excellent use of technology in our opinions. This allows for higher speed limits when there are fewer vehicles on I-285 and if weather permits, while limits during rush hour or on rainy and snowy days can be lessened as a precaution. The only downside to this new technology is that drivers on I-285 must constantly be aware of the changing speed limits. Most Georgia highways have speed limits that haven’t changed in years, so frequent drivers know what their limits are and fail to check the signs. Now, drivers on I-285 will be required to check the posted limits to make sure a ticket is not obtained.
At Jones & Swanson, we track potential changes to metro-Atlanta roads that may affect the safety of our staff members, friends, and other citizens of Georgia. With over 45 years of combined experience representing Georgia auto accident victims, we’ve witnessed first-hand the serious injuries and fatalities caused by car accidents on roads such as I-285. Those who are injured in an auto accident as a result of someone else’s negligence have a right to compensation for those injuries and suffering. If you or someone you know has been injured in a Georgia car wreck, contact our office today for a free initial consultation and affordable legal representation.
Categories: Auto Accidents, Car Accident, Georgia Laws, Personal Injury
