Tennessee, with its diverse terrain from the Mississippi River plains to the Great Smoky Mountains, presents unique driving conditions that contribute to its car crash statistics. The state's major highways, including Interstate 40 and Interstate 75, see a significant volume of traffic, making them hotspots for traffic collisions. Notably, stretches like the I-40 through Nashville and the I-24/I-75 interchange in Chattanooga are known for their high accident rates due to heavy traffic and, occasionally, challenging driving conditions.
Weather plays a significant role in increasing car crash risks in Tennessee, particularly in the mountainous regions where fog and sudden weather changes can reduce visibility drastically. Additionally, the state has seen its share of severe storms and tornadoes, which not only create hazardous driving conditions but can also lead to infrastructural damage, contributing further to the risk of accidents. Tennessee also grapples with issues of impaired driving and speeding, two of the leading causes of fatal car accidents in the state.
Weather plays a significant role in increasing car crash risks in Tennessee, particularly in the mountainous regions where fog and sudden weather changes can reduce visibility drastically. Additionally, the state has seen its share of severe storms and tornadoes, which not only create hazardous driving conditions but can also lead to infrastructural damage, contributing further to the risk of accidents. Tennessee also grapples with issues of impaired driving and speeding, two of the leading causes of fatal car accidents in the state.
It's imperative to stop immediately to avoid further traffic disruption. Turn off your vehicle to prevent fire risks. If possible, move your car to the side of the road to keep traffic flowing and ensure safety. Setting up flares or keeping your hazard lights on can alert other drivers.
Prioritize checking all involved parties for injuries. If there are any injuries or if you're unsure, call 911 immediately.
Tennessee law mandates reporting any car crash involving personal injury, death, or property damage exceeding $50. Contact the nearest law enforcement agency to report the car crash. For accidents resulting in property damage over $1,500, personal injury, or death, you must file an Owner/Driver Report (Form SF-0395) within 20 days. Non-compliance could result in suspension of your driver's license and vehicle registration.
Exchange names, addresses, phone numbers, driver's license numbers, license plate numbers, and insurance information with all involved parties. Collecting contact information from witnesses can also be beneficial for your insurance claim or legal proceedings.
Take extensive photos of the accident scene, including all vehicles involved, any visible injuries, and environmental conditions contributing to the car crash. This documentation can support your insurance claim and provide evidence in case of legal disputes.
Inform your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible. Provide them with the gathered information and cooperate fully, but be cautious about discussing fault until you've consulted with an attorney, if necessary.
Consider consulting a Tennessee-based attorney specializing in car accidents, especially if there were significant injuries or damages. An attorney can guide you through the insurance claim process and help protect your rights, especially given Tennessee's fault-based insurance system and comparative negligence laws.
Tennessee has a set of driving laws designed to enhance road safety for all road users, including drivers, passengers, and pedestrians. Here's a comprehensive overview of key Tennessee driving laws and facts:
Hands-Free LawTennessee prohibits the operation or touching of any mobile device while driving, with exceptions for hands-free use and emergency calls, including contacting 911. This law aims to reduce distracted driving incidents. Violations can result in fines and points on your driver's license.
Vehicle Video Installation LawThis law restricts the installation of devices that can play active videos within the driver's view, aiming to minimize distractions. Violations can lead to a fine of up to $50.
Coasting LawTennessee law prohibits coasting in neutral on downhill grades to maintain control of the vehicle. Violators may face fines.
Headlight LawsHeadlights must be turned on 30 minutes before sunset and after sunrise and whenever visibility is less than 200 feet due to weather conditions. Non-compliance can result in fines and potentially more severe penalties.
Littering LawLittering on roadways, with penalties ranging from $50 to $500, depending on the severity of the violation. Offenders may also face community service hours.
Speed LimitsTennessee enforces specific speed limits based on the type of roadway. For example, the limit is 55 mph on state and federal highways unless otherwise posted and up to 70 mph on interstate highways. School and work zones have lower limits for safety, and a violation of speed limits can result in significant fines and points on your license.
Parking LawsThere are designated no-parking zones, such as near fire hydrants, in crosswalks, or in front of driveways. Penalties for illegal parking vary, with fines starting from $10. Parking in a handicapped space without proper authorization carries the highest fines.
Vehicle Crash LawsIn the event of a crash involving property damage over $1,500, personal injury, or death, you're required to report the incident to the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security within 20 days. Leaving the scene of an accident involving injury or fatality is a serious offense and can lead to severe penalties.
Tennessee has mostly standard traffic laws, but there are several odd laws drivers should know as well.