Tennessee’s 2019 Hands-Free Law prohibits motorists from holding a mobile device while operating a vehicle. Distracted driving, however, continues to cause catastrophic accidents affecting families across the Volunteer State.
As reported by WBIR-TV’s website, more than 9,400 car crashes occurred in Tennessee during 2020 because of distractions. A wide range of actions that divert a driver’s attention may increase the chances of a deadly accident. Some of the most common causes of driver distraction include sending or reading a text message, using a GPS and eating.
Tennessee Highway Patrol seeing more violent crashes
According to the Tennessee Highway Patrol, speeding contributed to an increase in violent and fatal crashes in 2020. As more individuals work remotely from home, fewer cars on the road may result in motorists driving higher than the posted speed limits.
Combined with distractions, a speeding driver may not have enough focus or awareness to avoid a collision. Engaging with passengers or listening to music, for example, may take a motorist’s undivided attention away from traffic conditions. The THP also notes that crashes have become more severe and violent.
Large trucks involved in serious fatal crashes
The National Safety Council’s website notes that 10% of fatal vehicle crashes involved large trucks in 2019. More than 5,000 individuals in the U.S. died from a collision with a truck that year. According to the NSC, Tennessee recorded 152 fatal accidents involving large trucks during 2019.
A wrongful death may require a lawsuit to recover for the unexpected loss of a loved one. When a truck driver’s carelessness causes a fatal accident, the court may award damages that include compensation for medical and burial expenses. The surviving family members may also receive relief for the loss of a relationship and the future earnings they had hoped to rely on.
