atlanta information

Crime and Safety

In the early 1990s, Atlanta's soaring handgun homicide rate made the city famous as “the murder capital of America”. Things have improved since then, though the perception that crime was confined to the poorer sections of the city was dashed when two men were stabbed to death after a night of partying in the tony suburb of Buckhead.

The perception that Atlantans are gun-toting crazies is inaccurate; relatively few people carry handguns, and you are far more likely to be pickpocketed than held up. Use common sense; stick to well-lit areas after dark, take taxis late at night and avoid confrontations with anyone drunk or hostile. If you visit the malls, try to go with someone or shop during the day, as the parking lots can be poorly lit and infrequently patrolled.

Drivers pose the biggest threat to your safety. Only cross the street at designated crosswalks and make sure all cars have stopped first (Atlantans are notorious light-runners). In taxis, feel free to ask the driver to slow down. If you are particularly nervous, you can request a route that avoids highways. See our Getting around section for tips on driving.

posted by none @ 7:36 AM