According to the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT), the rate of traffic accident fatalities in Tennessee has increased significantly over the past year, when data from 2011 is compared to data from 2012 so far. For example, recently-released statistics show that 331 people have been killed in Tennessee auto accidents so far in 2012, which represents a 13% increase in the amount of deaths caused by traffic accidents in TN at this point last year. Traffic accidents are a major cause of injury and fatality in Tennessee, most often caused by avoidable circumstances like distracted driving and speeding. If you have suffered injuries caused by a motor vehicle accident in Tennessee, contact the Nashville personal injury attorneys at Michael D. Ponce & Associates for legal help.
In addition to data regarding overall traffic fatality rates, the Tennessee DOT has also released information concerning the types of TN accidents associated with the highest increase in fatalities this year, compared to those from 2011. The failure of drivers and passengers to wear their seat belts and accidents involving motorcycles have been identified by the TDOT as the types of Tennessee crashes associated with the highest increase in the rate of fatalities since 2011. These two causes alone accounted for 41 more deaths so far this year than at this time last year.
In light of these alarming statistics, the Tennessee Department of Transportation has taken steps to prevent unnecessary loss of life caused by traffic accidents across Tennessee. In an effort to quell the rise in TN traffic accident fatalities, the TDOT has posted messages on overhead electronic signs on interstates, notifying drivers about the number of deaths that have occurred in Tennessee auto accidents so far this year. Representatives of TDOT are hoping that an increased awareness will encourage motorists to use more caution while driving.
Overall, statistics show that more than 1,000 people are killed in Tennessee traffic accidents each year, and another 50,000 people are injured. These devastating injuries and tragic loss of life affect the lives of victims and their families on a daily basis, sometimes resulting in significant emotional suffering, exorbitant medical bills and crippling loss of income. If you have been injured in a traffic accident in Nashville, or if you lost a loved one in such an accident, contact our qualified TN personal injury attorneys at Michael D. Ponce & Associates today. You may be entitled to financial compensation for your medical bills and other expenses,which you can pursue by filing a personal injury lawsuit or wrongful death lawsuit against the negligent person or party.