Tennessee roads see thousands of car accidents every year, many of which result in serious injuries and fatalities. While some crashes are unavoidable, most are caused by driver negligence and unsafe behavior behind the wheel. Learning about the most common causes of car accidents in Tennessee can help you stay safe and protect your rights if you’ve been hurt. Our motor vehicle accident attorneys in Nashville can help if you have additional questions after a wreck.
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of car crashes in Tennessee and across the United States. Any activity that takes a driver’s eyes off the road, hands off the wheel, or mind off driving is considered a distraction.
Common distractions include:
- Texting while driving
- Eating and drinking while driving
- Adjusting navigation and audio controls
- Talking to passengers
- Daydreaming
- Driving while fatigued
Tennessee has implemented a “hands-free” law to reduce distracted driving, but violations remain a common cause of accidents.
Speeding and Aggressive Driving
Exceeding the speed limit or driving too fast for road conditions increases both the likelihood and severity of a crash. High speeds reduce reaction time and make it harder to control a vehicle during emergencies.
Aggressive driving behaviors, such as tailgating and weaving through traffic, are also major contributors to accidents. These reckless actions endanger everyone on the road and can lead to catastrophic injuries or fatalities.
Driving Under the Influence
Despite ongoing public awareness efforts, drunk and drug-impaired driving continues to cause serious crashes across Tennessee. Alcohol and drugs impair coordination, judgment, and reaction times, making it difficult for drivers to operate safely.
If a driver causes an accident while under the influence, they can face both civil and criminal penalties. Victims may be entitled to significant compensation in these cases as well.
Fatigued Driving
Drowsy driving can be just as dangerous as driving under the influence. When drivers are overly tired, their reaction times slow, and their focus decreases. Long work shifts and nighttime driving are some of the primary factors that lead to fatigue-related crashes.
Truck drivers and others who spend long hours on the road are particularly at risk. In some cases, commercial vehicle operators who violate federal rest regulations may be held liable for damages.
Poor Weather and Road Conditions
Tennessee weather can be unpredictable, and conditions such as heavy rain and black ice often contribute to accidents. Drivers have a legal duty to adjust their speed and driving behavior to account for hazardous conditions.
Similarly, dangerous road conditions caused by poor maintenance can lead to serious crashes. In such cases, government entities and contractors responsible for road upkeep may be liable.
Get Legal Help From an Experienced Tennessee Car Accident Lawyer
If you were injured in a car crash in Tennessee, it’s important to understand what caused your accident and who can be held responsible. The legal team at Woodard Injury Law can internally investigate your case and pursue full compensation for all of your injuries from there.
Call (615) 880-6126 today or contact us online for a free consultation. Our experienced Tennessee car accident lawyers work on contingency, which means you only pay attorney’s fees if we win compensation for you.