Posted in Car Accident,Personal Injury,Tennessee Accident Law on January 13, 2016
THP Reports That Traffic Fatalities in TN at Lowest Number Since 1963
The Tennessee Highway Patrol and the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security had good news to share, as 2015 had the lowest number of recorded traffic fatalities in the state since 1963.
Clarksville Now reports that all Tennessee law enforcement agencies reported the total number of traffic fatalities in their areas to the THP. There were 965 deaths related to vehicle accidents in the state in 2015 compared to 941 deaths in 1963.
Among the 965 deaths were 112 pedestrians who were struck by vehicles and 10 bicyclists. From 1964 to 2010, the state of Tennessee averaged 1,234 deaths per year on roadways.
The previous five years have seen an average of 971 traffic-related deaths per year—and all five years were among the six lowest since 1963.
A spokesperson with the THP says that the reduced number of traffic fatalities is due to an increase in public awareness efforts and data-driven enforcement initiatives, including ticketing or arresting drivers for DUI violations, seat belt violations, and distracted driving violations.
3 Ways You Can Reduce Your Risk on Tennessee’s Roadways
Traffic fatalities in the Volunteer State are down due to increased efforts from the THP and local law enforcement agencies, but it’s still important for all drivers to do their part to keep themselves, their passengers, and other drivers safe. Maintaining safe driving habits every time you behind the wheel makes you far less likely to be involved in an accident and less likely to become a statistic.
To decreases your chances of a collision the next time you drive, do your best to follow these three important tips:
Distracted driving is quickly becoming an epidemic in Tennessee and throughout the United States. Electronic devices and cars with built-in navigation and video screens make it easier than ever for drivers to lose their focus on the roadway and end up causing accidents. All it takes is a split second of distraction to rear-end a vehicle in front of you that is stopping or slowing down, or to drift into a nearby lane and cause a serious accident. Always keep your eyes, ears, and mind on the road.
Safe and effective driving requires good vision, sound judgment, and quick reflexes. Drinking alcohol, using prescription medications and drugs, and driving while sleepy or fatigued can all impair those abilities and make driving significantly more dangerous for you and your passengers. Always avoid driving or use a designated driver, cab, or ride sharing service if you have consumed alcohol, medication, or any drugs that could interfere with your ability to safely operate your vehicle.
Speeding is a risky proposition for very little gain. Going 10 miles per hour over the speed limit won’t get you to your destination much sooner than simply traveling at the speed limit itself, but it does significantly increase your risk of being involved in an accident. Roadways have set speed limits for a reason, and exceeding those limits can make it difficult to remain in control of your vehicle and react in time to the movements of other vehicles.
Following the tips above can help you do your part in making Tennessee’s roadways safer for all drivers. The reduced number of traffic fatalities in recent years can only be maintained if all drivers in the state continue to avoid drinking and driving, obeying all traffic laws and speed limits, and recognizing the dangers of driving while distracted.
If you or someone you love was injured in an accident in Tennessee that was caused by a negligent driver, you may be eligible to receive compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and other accident-related expenses. The Clarksville auto accident attorneys at Matt Hardin Law may be able to help you recover the money you deserve after the collision. To find out what we can do for your family, dial (931) 274-7788 or complete a free online consultation form.
