Marietta Road Safety Overview
Motor vehicle crashes remain one of the top causes of accidental deaths and hospitalizations in Georgia. And though one may immediately think of areas like Atlanta or Savannah, it’s important to understand that Georgia is home to several townships and counties, such as Marietta.
The small city, located northwest of Atlanta, spans 23 square miles and houses nearly 60,000 residents. It also has a robust public safety infrastructure and various other measures to keep its drivers safe. Below is a brief overview of these measures that motorists can refer to in order to enjoy peace of mind while exploring the area.
Marietta Road Safety 101
The City of Marietta’s road safety measures help ensure a smooth flow of vehicles and pedestrians throughout the area, thereby reducing traffic congestion and preventing car accidents as a result.
Understanding and adhering to these measures is key to protecting commuters and their passengers throughout the city:
Speed Limits
Speed limits are arguably one of the most effective means of ensuring road safety so long as they are properly followed. Throughout Marietta, these thresholds vary depending on the area, so drivers should always pay attention and adjust their driving accordingly.
Residential zones, for instance, typically have lower speed limits in place in order to protect pedestrians and children playing in or near the street. Major roads and highways, on the other hand, have higher thresholds to facilitate smoother traffic flow.
It’s important to be mindful of changing limits, as well, such as those found in school zones. Most nearby streets will have lighted speed limit signs that indicate when a 15 MPH threshold is in effect. During non-school hours and the summer months, the limit for that street may increase to 25 or 30 MPH.
Pedestrian Crosswalks
Marietta sees plenty of foot traffic due to its excellent year-round weather and easy access to various amenities. Thousands of people traverse the city on foot and use crosswalks to safely move from one side of the road to the other.
Drivers must always yield to pedestrians when approaching an intersection. Major crosswalks are lighted, whereas those covering two-lane roads are typically unlit. Due to this variability in crosswalk design, drivers must be attentive and always look out for individuals attempting to cross the street.
Traffic Signals and Signs
As in many other cities, Marietta has a variety of signs indicating speed limits, crossing areas, school zones, and other important information. Always obey these devices. Stay alert for changing traffic patterns, especially during road construction or big events.
Bike Lanes
The city has introduced bicycle lanes into many roads to ensure the safety of cyclists. Traditional motorists must be mindful of these travel lanes and avoid encroaching on them. Likewise, cyclists must always stick to their designated lanes and wear appropriate safety gear, such as helmets and reflective clothing.
Common Road Hazards in Marietta, GA
Some of the most common dangers one might encounter while traversing Marietta are as follows:
Construction Zones
Marietta is continuously growing, and with that growth comes construction. Construction zones can present various hazards, including lane shifts, uneven surfaces, and reduced speed limits.
Always slow down and follow posted signs in construction areas. If the workers are directing traffic, slow down and carefully follow their instructions. Heavy machinery is often present, so drivers must yield the right of way to workers so they can operate such devices safely.
Bad Weather
Georgia’s weather can be unpredictable. Sudden rain storms, fog, and icy roads during the winter months can quickly make conditions unsafe. Drivers, therefore, must pay attention and adjust their driving behaviors to match the weather.
Headlights, for instance, can be used in low-visibility conditions, and a safe distance must be maintained from other vehicles so as to give drivers more time to react when the roads are slick.
Traffic Congestion
Marietta’s roads can become heavily congested, especially during rush hour and special events. Heavy traffic increases the likelihood of accidents and requires motorists to be more patient and attentive.
Trips around the city should be planned to avoid peak traffic times whenever possible. In the event that someone must be on the road during these times, they must remain alert for sudden stops or changes in traffic flow.
How Drivers Can Stay Safe While Driving in Marietta, Georgia
Marietta may have implemented several road safety measures to help give drivers peace of mind while traveling, but in the end, those behind the wheel are responsible for their safety.
With that in mind, these are the things all drivers must do to keep themselves and their loved ones out of harm’s way:
Pay Attention
Distracted driving is a leading cause of accidents, with things like phones or loud radio stations being the most common distractions. A call or message can often wait until drivers are in a safe location, but if not, hands-free Bluetooth headsets are available that allow for taking calls without shifting attention off the road.
Use Signals
Regularly using turn signals is a simple habit that can prevent many accidents by ensuring that drivers are aware of each other’s movements. If, for instance, a driver needs to slow down to make a turn, using their turn signal gives the drivers behind them ample time to brake.
Watch For Pedestrians and Cyclists
Pedestrians and cyclists can be difficult to see, especially at night or in bad weather. Yield the right of way to people traveling the city on foot and those riding their bicycles.
Follow the Rules
The last tip here may be the most obvious, but it is also the most important: Learn the rules and follow them. Adhering to the latest traffic laws will help you avoid tickets and accidents.
Road Safety Is a Shared Responsibility
The City of Marietta has taken several steps to promote road safety. However, it is a shared responsibility. Be a courteous and attentive driver. Follow the city’s safety measures and stay vigilant for common hazards, including construction zones, obstructions, and bad weather.
Ultimately, road safety isn’t just about following rules and avoiding tickets. It’s about protecting lives. Stay informed and always prioritize safety when navigating Marietta’s roads.