Not all car crashes in Tennessee cause minor dents and dings. Drivers, passengers and pedestrians are all at risk for serious injuries. Sadly, a great many car accidents may result in fatalities. The statistics revealing fatality numbers can be both sobering and frightening. Reviewing some points about those statistics may lead some to be more careful on the road.
The National Safety Council (NSC) reveals that 38,800 people died in car crashes in 2019. The number represents a decrease in deaths from both 2018 and 2017. However, the fact that nearly 39,000 people lost their lives means the risks on the road remain significant.
The fatality figures in Tennessee don’t bring any positive news. 2019 saw a 10% increase from 2018. As such, driving on the roads in the “Volunteer State” might require additional caution.
Nationally, several factors are contributing to a decrease in car crash fatalities. Technological and other car safety advancements do help. New vehicles come with many beneficial safety features. Older cars, however, may not come with modern safety-boosting features.
Still, it remains advisable that drivers observe the common ways of potentially reducing car accidents. The NSC does warn that drunk driving incidents lead to accidents. Not driving while impaired, using an alternative means of transportation or relying on a designated driver might reduce some accidents.
Fatigued driving may also contribute to accidents. Avoiding driving while tired or suffering from a lack of sleep could save lives. The same is true of distracted driving. Taking one’s eyes, hands and attention off the road may prove deadly. Cellphone use while driving, in particular, could be hazardous.
Teen drivers might be prone to speeding or otherwise driving unsafely. Parents and guardians should monitor their children’s driving better. And both adults and teens could get something out of taking defensive and safe driving courses.
Property damage and personal injuries may result from car accidents. Sadly, fatalities are possible too. Drivers in all 50 states should do what they can to bring the fatality and accident numbers down.