Drivers in Georgia who spend more time navigating urban roads may think that they are the most dangerous of all. The reality, though, is that rural roads can be just as, if not more, dangerous. Though there is less traffic, there are certain dangers that drivers need to be aware of.
First and foremost are the narrow lanes and shoulders, which can make a head-on collision very likely if drivers are being inattentive. On the other hand, drivers who ride on the shoulder may run off the road entirely and crash. Second, most rural roads have few street lights, which will make it hard to drive at night. A third danger is posed by the presence of wildlife.
Other motorists pose a great threat, too. Many, assuming that they won’t be pulled over on rural roads, exceed the speed limit and even choose to drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Some drivers put themselves at a higher risk for serious injuries by neglecting their seat belt. This is unfortunate because the countryside can be far from any hospitals, so if a crash does occur, victims may not receive the necessary medical care in time.
To stay safe on rural roads, people must practice defensive driving. This means, among other things, never assuming that other drivers will act safely.
In most motor vehicle accidents, there is always the question of who was negligent. Those who were injured and who were not to blame, and even those who are only partially to blame, may seek compensation for their losses through a personal injury claim. It can be hard to negotiate a settlement with insurance companies, so victims may want to have legal representation throughout the process.
