Tennessee Law Enforcement Focuses on Reducing Distracted Driving Accidents

Distracted driving has never been more of a problem in Tennessee than it currently is. In fact, last year saw the highest number of distracted driving accidents on record in our state with an estimated 21,000 crashes. Those collisions accounted for 48 fatalities and another 8,000 motorists suffering serious injuries.

Our Nashville car accident lawyers at Ponce Law say the Tennessee Highway Patrol is working to reduce the number of distracted driving accidents in our state. They are hoping to achieve this through strict enforcement of the law.

The law prohibits drivers in our state from using an electronic device to send or read text messages and it’s an infraction troopers are targeting. According to an article from WBIR News, Knoxville specifically has seen a steady increase over the years in the number of citations issued for distracted driving infractions. Other areas can expect to see more law enforcement officials issuing more tickets as well.

The punishment for an infraction isn’t lenient and could get even more stringent. Current regulations make distracted driving punishable by a $50 fine, but lawmakers are pushing to have the fine raised to $250.

Our legal staff at Ponce Law encourages you to help reduce distracted driving. That’s why our Nashville personal injury lawyers are asking you to do your part to keep our roadways safe by eliminating items and activities that can take your eyes and attention off the road, including:

• Cellphone Use– Put your phone down when driving and don’t pick it up until you reach your destination.
• Food and Drink– Avoid eating food or sipping beverages while behind the wheel.
• Radios– Adjust your stereo settings, pick out a CD, or select a playlist prior to getting on the road.
• Other Passengers– Refrain from paying attention to others in the vehicle while driving.