What Are the Five Most Dangerous Roads in Savannah?

Savannah, Georgia is one of the South’s most iconic cities, known for its cobblestone streets, Spanish moss-draped oak trees, and well-preserved architecture. Founded in 1733, it is rich in history and culture, with public squares, art galleries, and a vibrant waterfront attracting millions of visitors year-round.

While Savannah offers endless charm and hospitality, its unique layout and increased traffic demands often create challenges for drivers, especially those unfamiliar with the city. Narrow residential streets combined with high-speed interchanges present a variety of hazards across Savannah’s roadways. Based on traffic studies, local accident reports, and public safety data, five of the most dangerous roads in Savannah include:

  • Abercorn Street (State Route 204): One of the busiest roads in Savannah, Abercorn Street passes through residential, commercial, and school zones. The high traffic volume, frequent lane changes, and numerous driveways contribute to a higher risk of rear-end collisions and side-swipe accidents, particularly during rush hours.
  • DeRenne Avenue (State Route 21 Connector): A major east-west corridor, DeRenne Avenue features narrow lanes and heavy congestion. Accidents are common here due to sudden stops, aggressive driving behaviors, and limited visibility at several intersections.
  • Ogeechee Road (U.S. Route 17): Known for speeding and serious crashes, especially in sections with fewer traffic signals and limited nighttime lighting. Its mix of residential driveways, commercial access points, and highway speeds creates a challenging driving environment.
  • I-16 at I-516 Interchange: This interchange experiences high volumes of merging and weaving traffic. Tight curves and short on-ramps contribute to confusion and collisions, particularly during peak travel times.
  • Waters Avenue: A long corridor running through neighborhoods and commercial areas. Frequent intersections, pedestrian crossings, and inconsistent speed limits increase accident risk, especially involving turning vehicles and cyclists.

What Are the Most Common Causes of Car Accidents in Savannah?

Savannah experiences thousands of vehicle collisions each year, resulting in numerous injuries and fatalities. While exact numbers vary year to year, recent traffic safety reports estimate approximately 7,000 to 8,000 crashes annually, with several thousand injuries and around a dozen to 15 fatalities.

Some of the most frequent causes of car accidents in Savannah include:

  • Aggressive or Reckless Driving: Tailgating, weaving through traffic, and running red lights contribute to many collisions, especially in high-traffic areas.
  • Distracted Driving: Texting, eating, adjusting GPS devices, and other distractions divert drivers’ attention, increasing crash risks at busy intersections like Abercorn Street and DeRenne Avenue.
  • Impaired Driving: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs significantly raises the risk of crashes. Savannah’s late-night and weekend traffic sees a higher incidence of alcohol or drug-related accidents, with fatal crashes involving impairment reportedly higher than the Georgia state average.
  • Failure to Yield: Drivers neglecting to yield right-of-way at intersections—common in Savannah’s historic district with numerous squares and one-way streets—lead to many accidents.
  • Speeding: Excessive speed reduces reaction times and increases crash severity, particularly on roads like Ogeechee Road and the I-16/I-516 interchange.
  • Tailgating: Following too closely is the most common cause of rear-end collisions, especially given Savannah’s heavy commuter traffic, tourism, and narrow streets.

What Are Common Types of Car Accident Injuries?

Car accidents are a leading cause of personal injuries, ranging from minor to severe. Common injuries include whiplash, spinal cord damage, broken bones, cuts and lacerations, traumatic brain injuries, nerve and organ damage, and emotional distress.

What Should I Do After a Savannah Car Accident?

Your actions following an accident can significantly impact your injury claim. It’s important to:

  • Report the accident and injuries to the police immediately.
  • Exchange contact and insurance information with other drivers involved.
  • Limit your conversation to avoid making statements that could be used against you.
  • Take photos of the scene, vehicle damage, injuries, and any contributing factors.
  • Collect contact details and statements from witnesses.
  • Seek prompt medical care for any injuries and keep all medical documentation.
  • Preserve all accident-related records.
  • Avoid posting about the accident on social media.
  • Consult a Savannah car accident lawyer before speaking with insurance companies.

Savannah Car Accident Lawyers at Kicklighter Law Help Injured Clients Seek Justice and Compensation

If you’ve been injured due to negligence, the experienced Savannah car accident lawyers at Kicklighter Law are here to help. With over 40 years of dedicated service, we strive to hold negligent drivers accountable and recover the compensation you deserve. Call 912-754-6003 or contact us online to schedule a consultation. Located in Springfield, Georgia, we proudly serve clients throughout Effingham County, Savannah, and nearby communities.