The Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security issued a report that Tennessee traffic fatalities in 2015 reached their third lowest annual figure since 1963.
Preliminary findings for 2015 show that 965 vehicle deaths occurred in Tennessee, including 10 pedal cyclist and 112 pedestrian deaths. In 1963, 941 traffic deaths occurred.
From 2011 to 2015, Tennessee traffic fatalities averaged 971 per year. These years have been five of the six lowest traffic fatality averages, along with the year 1963. Between 1964 and 2010, 1,234 traffic deaths occurred on average in TN.
Safety commissioner Bill Gibbons attributes the decrease in vehicular deaths to public awareness efforts and data driven enforcement initiatives. The decrease in Tennessee traffic fatalities is also the result of stricter enforcement of traffic laws relating to DUIs, seat belt usage and distracted driving.
In 2015, over 114,000 people were cited for not wearing seat belts. Another 7,805 people were arrested for suspicion of driving under the influence. Figures indicate that alcohol related fatalities decreased 20.9 percent last year. Unrestrained motorist deaths also decreased by 3 percent.
Unfortunately a huge spike in traffic deaths occurred in December 2015, making it the deadliest month on the roadway in six years. Traffic fatalities last month increased 30 percent from December 2014.
Tennessee law enforcement will continue to make the safety of citizens on the roadway a priority.
Commissioner Gibbons said, Our top goal continues to be the reduction of traffic fatalities. We are committed to enforcing our traffic laws and saving lives. Tennesseans are encouraged to make safe driving choices, such as not texting while driving, not driving under the influence and wearing a seatbelt.
If you or a loved has been injured in a traffic collision, we can help you obtain justice. Contact the experienced Knoxville car accident lawyers at Greg Coleman Law today for a free consultation. Our injury attorneys fight for justice.
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