Summer road trips bring together the entire family: the car enthusiast who loves to drive; the adventurer who wants to explore; the planner who wants time with the family. Unfortunately, even the most careful drivers in the family can be injured in a car accident caused by another party. Data accumulated on the causes of accidents can help to reduce their number.
Across the United States, the number of fatalities in motor vehicle accidents exceeds 38,000 every year. Technological features such as rearview cameras, Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) and self-steering cars improve safety, but do not eliminate accidents. Drunk driving contributes to about one-third of all fatal accidents. When combined with their lack of experience, teenagers who drive distracted account for 9% of car accidents within their age group. The average cost of a car accident – $9,500 – only compounds the emotional tragedy.
Younger, less experienced drivers most serious risks in Shelby County
Information collected by the Tennessee Department of Safety & Homeland Security since 2017 show many of above-mentioned factors have contributed to fatality rates in Shelby County. Drivers ranked highest in the overall crash rank statewide in both 2020 and 2021. More ominous, drivers in Shelby County between the ages of 15 and 24 have ranked second statewide in the average number of crashes over the last five years and ranked No. 1 in 2020 and 2021.
Speed, time of day, type of vehicle and numerous other factors can trigger a situation that will require understanding about duties, liabilities, and responsibilities under the law. Attorneys who know the financial and emotional impact of motor vehicle accidents can provide guidance.