Posted in Car Accident,Tennessee Accident Law on June 22, 2017
Thousands of drivers use Interstates 24, 40, 440, 840, and 65 in and around Nashville every day to get to and from work and when passing through the area.
In addition, there are also dozens of high-speed highways throughout the mid-state region. These roads have higher speed limits than other streets, making trips faster and easier. But the higher speed limits can increase the risk of serious injuries when accidents occur.
You can reduce your risks of getting hurt while driving on a high-speed roadway by:
Most interstates in Middle Tennessee have speed limits of anywhere between 55 mph and 70 mph. It’s important to drive at or below those limits. Exceeding the speed limit makes you more likely to lose control of your vehicle, and it also increases your vehicle’s stopping distance. During inclement weather such as rain, snow, or fog, you should further reduce your speed.
Keeping your eyes, ears, and mind fully focused on the road are vital no matter when or where you’re driving. But distracted driving is an even bigger risk when you’re traveling on a high-speed highway or interstate. In the time it takes to send or read a text message, your vehicle can travel the length of a football field.
Getting behind the wheel while under the influence of alcohol is extremely dangerous. It’s also important to avoid driving while impaired—which can include side effects from prescription and over-the-counter medications. If you’re taking a medication that causes drowsiness, sleepiness, or any other psychoactive effects, be sure to ask your doctor how long you should wait after taking it before driving.
In addition to these tips, it’s also important to make sure your vehicle is well-maintained and that your tires have full tread, all your lights—including turn signals—work, and that you and your passengers are properly restrained with seat belts or age-appropriate safety devices.
Matt Hardin Law’s team of Murfreesboro auto accident attorneys knows that thousands of Middle Tennessee residents rely on highways and interstates in the mid-state area for their daily commutes. However, we also know that accidents occur on these roads everyday—and they’re often serious and cause victims to suffer severe and even life-threatening injuries.
It’s important to take every precaution possible to decrease your risk of being involved in an accident. Unfortunately, other drivers don’t always follow those precautions, which leads to accidents. If you or someone you know was hurt by a negligent driver, you may be eligible to file a claim for compensation. Get in touch with our legal team today to find out how we can put our two decades of experience to work for you. Dial (615) 600-4941 or fill out a free online form.
