Georgia has many busy roadways around its biggest cities and heavy traffic can wear them down, making constant maintenance necessary. This abundance of work zones can, however, create hazardous conditions for drivers.
This trend has increased over the years: total traffic fatalities in Georgia jumped from 1,164 in 2014 to a peak of 1,809 in 2021. Even with a decrease in 2023 to 1,615 fatal accidents, that figure remains higher than a decade ago.
Why fines intensify
These conditions require driving with duty of care. If that duty is breached, the law will enforce penalties designed for reckless driving: under the Georgia Code, speeding in a designated highway work zone is classified as a misdemeanor of a high and aggravated nature.
This means a fine of between $100 and $2,000, which is significantly higher than standard traffic violations. These harsh penalties apply whether construction personnel are present or not, as long as the area is properly marked with signs, barriers, or work vehicles.
Planning ahead of your commute
The easiest way to avoid these fines is checking for upcoming lane closures or delays. These are some ways to prevent an accident while driving through a work zone:
- Stay tuned: You can look out for reports in radio and TV or search your route in social media for any updates.
- Check out official resources: Before you leave home, consult official resources like the Atlanta DOT website to check updates.
An accident in a work zone can be catastrophic. And if you or a loved one has been involved in a crash, you need an attorney who can help you gather evidence and clear any misunderstandings.