Through Oct. 29, 2018, 856 people lost their lives in auto accidents in Tennessee. On that same date in 2019, that number increased to 935. And in 2020, it increased again to 980. What’s the cause of this increase—especially considering that traffic volumes have been down due to COVID-19?
Many of the same factors that were at play in 2018 and 2019 were also at play throughout 2020. Namely, speeding, drunk driving, and distracted driving. But 2020 has had another added factor: driver complacency. What does this mean?
Although traffic volumes have been lighter for most of 2020, drivers still face risks, but of a different kind due to not paying as close attention or being as careful behind the wheel. When many drivers look around and see less traffic on their daily commutes, they may be more likely to speed, text while driving, or even drive while impaired. Or they may follow too closely, drift in their lanes, or fail to stop at stop signs.
There’s no excuse for not taking driver safety seriously. Even if you’re the only driver on the road, you still need to be alert, cautious, and keeping your eyes glued to the road ahead. When drivers fail to take their roles and responsibility seriously, they put themselves, their passengers, and others at risk. 2020’s fatal traffic accident statistics support this!
If you or someone you love was hurt or killed in a crash, you need a legal advocate right away. Tennessee’s time limit for filing injury claims is just one year, so you need to act fast. The Nashville auto accident lawyers at Ponce Law are ready to help you get the money you’re owed, so call today.