Local authorities stated all three victims were wearing a seat belt when the wreck occurred. The Walland man who stands accused of causing the fatal accident, however, sustained a number of avoidable wounds when he was ejected from his vehicle. The man was apparently released from the hospital the same day he was criminally charged.

The exact cause of the deadly collision is under investigation by the Traffic Safety Unit of the Blount County Sherriff’s Office. At this time, law enforcement apparently believes drugs or alcohol may have played a role in the fatal traffic accident. A spokesperson for local authorities stated toxicology results on the 27-year-old driver are still pending.

This tragic collision occurred on the same stretch of highway as a 2012 crash that killed 16-year-old Amelia Keown. Earlier this year, the Tennessee Senate unanimously passed “Amelia’s Law” in response to the wreck. The new law permits a judge to require individuals who are convicted of a crime involving drugs or alcohol to wear a monitoring device that regularly checks for substance abuse.

Regardless of the outcome in a criminal trial, the victims of a crash that was caused by a motorist who chose to get behind the wheel of an automobile while under the influence of alcohol or drugs should pursue civil action. In Tennessee, individuals who suffered an injury in a drunken driving accident may be entitled to recover compensation for their medical expenses, lost earnings, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and more. Certain family members of someone who was killed in such a wreck may also be entitled to receive compensation associated with their loved one’s wrongful death. If you were hurt or a close relative was killed in a drug or alcohol-related crash, you should contact a skilled Eastern Tennessee attorney to discuss your right to recovery in greater detail.

If you were injured in a Blount County car accident that was caused by an impaired driver, please contact the Hartsoe Law Firm, P.C. through our website or call us today at (865) 804-1011. Additional Resources: Tellico Plains woman killed in wreck on U.S. 411 South, by Iva Butler and J.J. Kindred, The Daily Times Driver charged in fatal crash: Walland man faces vehicular homicide, other charges, by Wes Wade, The Daily Times Related Blog Posts: Tennessee Insurance Policy Offsets And Subrogation — Poper Ex Rel. Poper V. Rollins; Sherer v. Linginfelter, May 14, 2014, Knoxville Injury Lawyer Blog

Make Sure Your Tennessee Auto Insurance Policy Covers Uninsured and Underinsured Motorists, Especially If You Use Ride-Share Programs, May 7, 2014, Knoxville Injury Lawyer Blog

Tennessee Traffic Fatalities are Down The good news is that car accident fatalities in Tennessee are down. The Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security (“TDOSHS “) recently release its preliminary traffic crash data and statistics report. According to the figures, accident fatalities in Tennessee had a more than 2 percent decrease, falling from 1,015 in 2012 to 988 in 2013. This is the fourth time in 50 years that vehicular fatalities were below 1,000. The report is an annual preliminary report that is released every January outlining state and county traffic fatalities, injuries, and property damage. It even breaks down contributing factors like age, alcohol, and deer. However, it was not all good news as pedestrian fatalities have increased by 25 percent over the past year from 68 in 2012 to 85 in 2013.

In the TDOSHS press release about the data, Commissioner Bill Gibbons stated, “The decline in the number of traffic fatalities in 2013 indicates that Tennessee is moving in the right direction.” Gibbons claims that state troopers who are being deployed as a direct result of the most recent data available allows for maximum impact on enforcing laws relating to DUI and seat belt enforcement. Gibbons believes there is still a lot of work left to complete, however. The press release noted that fatalities related to impaired driving decreased by 26.6% from 2010 to 2013 while state troopers increased the number of DUI arrests and seat belt citations.

Department of Safety Lieutenant Colonel Tracy Trott, noting a future use of data analytics, also claimed, “In 2014, we will employ a predictive analytics model (C.R.A.S.H.) to look even more closely at where traffic crashes are most likely to occur and deploy our resources, both in educational efforts and enforcement. We hope that this new tool will help reduce serious injury and fatal crashes across the state.” Predictive analytics is a technique that utilizes field data, statistics, and modelling techniques to train computer modelling systems to make forecasts about future events. The forecast models can be used to optimize deployment of resources.

Blount County Statistics The preliminary release had good news for Blount county as well. The Maryville Dailytimes reported on the data stating Blount County traffic fatalities remained at 25 in 2013, the same amount that was recorded in 2012. We looked at the data release and found alcohol related accidents have been on a downward trend since 2004 with a significant drop last year of only 65 alcohol related accidents.

To help reduce impaired driving, Blount County police departments have been working in conjunction with other police departments to deploy wide area saturation patrols (WASPs). A saturation patrol is a law enforcement tactic where agencies focus an overwhelming force in a limited area. The tactic is largely used in check points to create the perception of an omnipresence giving the public the impression that traffic violations are a serious crime.

While the TDOSHS’ preliminary figures look promising, accidents still happen. Aggressive, impaired, and unsafe drivers are still on the road. When the reckless or negligent behavior of a driver causes an accident that injures another, the victim is entitled to be recover for their injuries. Victims of car wrecks need an experienced car accident lawyer to receive the compensation they deserve.

If you have been involved in an accident due to the negligent or reckless driving of another, contact Hartsoe Law Firm, P.C. at (865) 804-1011.

Additional Resources: Statistics and Research: Crash Data, Jan. 4, 2013, Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security

Alcohol Impaired Traffic Crashes in Tennessee, Jan. 4, 2013, Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security

More Blog Entries: Knoxville Sheriff’s Office Participates in Texting While Driving Campaign, Sep. 18, 2013, Knoxville News Sentinel

Tennessee Traffic Safety: Are Your Aggressive Driving Habits Increasing Your Risk for an Accident?, Jan. 31, 2012, Tennessee Code

According to an AP-Times Square New Year’s Eve Poll, 54 percent of us will be celebrating at home, while 1 in 5 will be at someone else’s house, and 8 percent will go to a bar or organized event.

For a small taste of things to do and see for your New Year’s celebration in Knoxville:

• Couples who wish to dress up and dine on a 1920’s themed dinner prepared by local favorite, Holly Hambright, can attend the New Year’s dinner at the Candoro Arts & Heritage Center.
• Catering to the aquatically adventurous, the Volunteer Princess offers a fabulous cruise down the Tennessee River while enjoying a full bar and live music.
• For families with children, they can celebrate at noon on the 31st at the East Tennessee Discovery Center. There will be a ball drop with confetti. Children can enjoy the play spaces including the newly unveiled Imagination Playground.
• Want to enjoy bringing in the new year with a soulful local band, see the Dirty Guv’nahs play at the Tennsseee Theatre.
• For the healthy, you can do a New Years 5k run on January 1.

Whatever your plans, start 2014 off the right way by planning a safe celebration. For many, going out on New Year’s Eve and drinking is a tradition. However, each year, hundreds of people are the victims of needless deaths that could have been avoided if someone would have made the decision to not drink and drive. Recently, the Maryville Dailytimes reported a rise in driving fatalities in Blount County due to impaired drivers.

According to a study by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, half the fatal crashes on New Year’s Day involve a driver who was legally considered drunk. Mothers Against Drunk Driving (“MADD”), estimates that the number of drunken driving deaths across the country increased by five percent in 2012.

Because of the known alcohol related fatalities during New Year’s Eve, crackdown by law enforcement officers has become expected. A drunk driving conviction can be financially costly. The Tennessee authorities have partnered with MADD and will be wearing a red ribbon to raise awareness about drunk driving.

Wherever you plan to celebrate, we want to make sure you get home safely. The following tips may help:

• Stay Sober: Having fun on New Year’s Eve does not mean you have to get drunk. You can still have fun and stay sober. If you are the designated driver, use it to your advantage and get free virgin drinks.
• Select a Designated Driver: If you plan to get drunk, have a designated driver. And, keep your designated driver happy with the free virgin drinks.
• Stay All Night: Look for venues that allow you to stay overnight or sleep over. If you are throwing a party, providing overnight sleeping for guests can help reduce the chances of drunk driving.
• Stay within Walking Distance: Mapping out your travel ahead of time, keeping your home or public transportation within walking distance, will ease your concerns while you celebrate.
• Bring Phone Numbers: Put the number of a local cab company or AAA in your phone ahead of time. AAA will be providing a drunk driving service to Knoxville residents.
• Finally: If you see someone driving erratically and suspect that they are driving drunk, do not hesitate to notify authorities. You may be saving a life.

New Year’s Eve is a celebration of new beginnings. Do not let it be a reminder of unintended endings. Drunk driving affects family and friends, jobs, and the community. If you have been the victim of a driving accident, it is important to have a competent attorney that protects your rights so that your injuries will be compensated.

If you have been the victim of a personal injury, contact Hartsoe Law Firm, P.C. at (865) 804-1011.

Additional Resources: 4th of July Crash Deaths, July 3, 2004, Insurance Institute of Highway Safety

Traffic Safety Facts 2013, Nov. 2013, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration

More Blog Entries: Supreme Court of Tennessee Affirms Non-Economic Damages for Child’s Car Accident Injuries — Meals v. Ford Motor Co., Nov 27, 2013, Knoxville Injury Lawyer Blog

Drunk Driving a Leading Cause of Car Accidents in Knoxville, Maryville, Mar 12, 2011, Knoxville Injury Lawyer Blog

Their worlds collided violently when that 23-year-old student slammed into the young mother, killing her, her unborn child and another good Samaritan. The Samaritan was a 45-year-old man who lived nearby and had stopped to see if the women needed assistance.

Our Knoxville personal injury lawyers, like so many in this community, encourage you to drink responsibly as we head into the heart of the spring and summer travel season.

A reconstructionist expert with the Knoxville Police Department testified there is no indication that the young driver even touched his brakes or made any effort to stop after the crash. Instead, he fled to his nearby residence, where detectives found him a short time later. By the time they arrived, officers said there was evidence that the defendant had already attempted to wash the blood from his sport utility vehicle.

The woman who had run out of gas was not injured, but she took her own life several months later.

The crash occurred last spring. The defendant is now on trial on 11 felony charges, including three counts of vehicular homicide, DUI, reckless endangerment and hit-and-run. The emotional trial has been heavily covered by local media. One of the latest revelations came from the student’s roommate, who testified that the driver admitted to being drunk that night when he arrived back home.

The defendant’s lawyer is attempting to argue that while his client was drinking, he was not legally drunk. It’s going to be a hard-sell defense, but even if he’s successful, it doesn’t change the fact that three innocent people are dead as a result of gross negligence.

Many times in cases like this, regardless of the criminal trial outcome, survivors of drunk driving crashes will pursue civil action.

Criminal cases are all about penalties that the defendant must pay for his crime against society. Civil cases are about repaying damages to you for your great loss. This may include out-of-pocket medical expenses, medical bills, actual or potential lost earnings, emotional distress and pain and suffering. Survivors who have lost a spouse or child or parent may also sue for loss of companionship or services.

While nothing will ever bring your loved one back, the idea is to help restore you, to whatever extent is possible.

In cases of drunk drivers, it’s also possible for claimants to seek damages from third parties. For example, if the defendant was under the age of 21, you may pursue damages from whoever served or sold him alcohol. If he was drunk and had just left a bar, you may be able to seek damages from the bar for failing to serve alcohol responsibly.

It’s important to remember the consequences of drinking and driving as we head into summer. If more drivers pictured themselves standing trial for killing a family, fewer might take the chance when it comes to climbing behind the wheel after having too much to drink.

If you are involved in a Knoxville traffic accident, contact Hartsoe Law Firm, P.C. at (865) 804-1011.

Additional Resources: Roommate: Defendant admitted being intoxicated after fatal crash, April 12, 2013, By Jim Balloch, April 12, 2013, Knoxville News Sentinel

More Blog Entries: Knoxville Car Accident Prevention: Distracted Driving Awareness Month, April 10, 2013, Knoxville Personal Injury Lawyer Blog

The pregnant passenger suffered from a broken neck and burns on almost three-quarters of her body. Her husband was badly burned as well.

Our Tennessee drunk driving car accident attorneys understand that the Franklin Police Department conducted its very first sobriety checkpoint this last Saturday to help to reduce the risks of anymore accidents like that one. The funds for the checkpoints were provided by the Governor’s Highway Safety Office. That checkpoint was dedicated to the family, which has been mourning their run-in with a drunk driver for more than 40 years. Pictures of the woman, the husband and the pair’s daughter, who was born prematurely and blind, were on display at that site of the DUI checkpoint, according to The Tennessean.

As this family is all too painfully aware, the consequences of drunk driving can last a lifetime.

“This kind of shows more of a powerful reason of why we are out there,” said Franklin Police Officer Rachel Gobe. “We are out there for a reason: to save lives.”

The woman involved in the drunk driving accident was the national president of Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) and started the organization’s Tennessee chapter back in 1981. She even appealed to President Clinton, asking him to lower the drunk driving limit from .10 to .08 blood alcohol concentration (BAC). That national standard was passed late in 2000.

Although she is no longer the national president of the organization, MADD is still going strong in its fight against drunk drivers across the nation. According to a recent press release from MADD, new legislation is being pushed to require everyone convicted of drunk driving to install ignition interlock devices, or machines that measure a driver’s blood alcohol content. The vehicle won’t start if the driver has been drinking. The majority of drunk driving car accidents are caused by repeat offenders. The interlock devices would help to make sure these motorists won’t be drunk on our roadways.

“While drunk driving remains the primary threat to American families traveling on our roadways, we are closer than ever to making sure no family must endure the pain of losing a loved one to this 100-percent preventable crime,” said MADD National President Jan Withers.

These devices are one of the most beneficial components of the Campaign to Eliminate Drunk Driving®. The passage of laws requiring these devices for all offenders have already reduced the risks of drunk driving-related fatalities, as observed recently in Arizona and Oregon.

Ignition interlock devices save lives and save taxpayer money. For an offender who has been sentenced to use an interlock device, the user has to dish out about $2.25 for each day for its use. Researchers conclude that for every dollar invested in these devices for a first-time offender, it saves the public about $3. When you consider that drunk driving accidents cost the nation more than $130 billion every year, the fees required by these convicted drivers is a small price to pay to help ensure roadway safety and to help to reduce the risks of alcohol-related traffic accidents.

Lastly, MADD is hoping to get the ROADS SAFE Act into legislation. This act could help to offer research funds to those creating Driver Alcohol Detection System for Safety (DADSS). Both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the Automotive Coalition for Traffic Safety are working to advance this potentially life-saving technology.

If you or someone close to you has been injured or killed in a Tennessee drunk driving car accident, contact Hartsoe Law Firm, P.C. for a confidential appointment to discuss your rights with our Tennessee injury lawyers. Call (865) 804-1011. Additional Resources: Woman relives tragic crash as DUI checkpoint dedicated, by Charles Pulliam, The Tennessean

More Blog Entries: New Statistics Reveal More Car Accidents in Tennessee than Last Year, Tennessee Injury Attorney Blog, December 18, 2011 Knoxville Drunk Driving Accidents Illustrate Risks to Cyclists, Motorists, Tennessee Injury Attorney Blog, July 20, 2011

“This Super Bowl Sunday, we want to see zero alcohol-related fatalities in Tennessee, so you will see more troopers in more places looking for people who break the law. Make sure you come out a winner this Super Bowl weekend. Designate a sober driver or take a cab home if you’ve had too much to drink,” said Department of Safety Commissioner Dave Mitchell.

Our Knoxville drunk driving car accident lawyers understand that officers across the state will be out in full force in search of drivers who are under the influence of alcohol. Drunk driving car accidents are completely preventable, and we’re asking all residents to huddle up with family members and friends to come up with a game plan to keep everyone safe on our roadways on Sunday. Kickoff between the Giants and the Patriots is at 6:30 p.m. and residents are urged to have their rides situated before then. Make sure you have a designated driver or a safe place to stay if you’ll be drinking during the game.

In 2006, troopers made roughly 25 arrests for driving under the influence over the Super Bowl weekend. During this time, there were nearly 10 fatal accidents. One was alcohol-related. That number was down from the statistics from the previous year’s Super Bowl weekend. We’re hoping that these numbers can be brought down even lower.

Getting a ride home from a sober friend is always a winning play. There nothing safer than catching a ride with someone who is sober. It’s important to keep an eye on your loved ones, too. Make sure everyone you know is taking care of themselves on Super Bowl Sunday. Tips for Going Out on Super Bowl Sunday:

-Most importantly, fans who will be drinking should find a designated driver before the game begins.

-Make sure your designated agrees to drink only non-alcoholic drinks.

-Drink in moderation over time. Drinking too much in too short of a time can make you sick and ruin your game day.

-Always wear your seat belt.

-Keep phone numbers to cab companies with you in case you or a friend is need of a safe ride.

-Eat plenty of food along with your alcohol consumption.

According to the Designated Driver poll from 2005, about 70 percent of drivers have either been a designated driver for someone or have ridden home with a designated driver. This means that nearly 150 million people know how to party responsibly. Let’s make this year’s stats reach 100 percent. Enjoy the game!

If you or someone in your family has been injured or killed in a Knoxville drunk driving car accident, contact Hartsoe Law Firm, P.C. for a confidential appointment to discuss your rights with our Knoxville injury lawyers. Call (865) 804-1011. More Blog Entries: New Statistics Reveal More Car Accidents in Tennessee than Last Year, Tennessee Injury Attorney Blog, December 18, 2011 Knoxville Drunk Driving Accidents Illustrate Risks to Cyclists, Motorists, Tennessee Injury Attorney Blog, July 20, 2011

In 2010, there were roughly 33,000 people who died in traffic accidents in the country. Yes, this is a decrease from the previous year, but there are a number of accident categories that saw a significant increase during this time.

The NHTSA recently released the 2010 Motor Vehicle Crashes Overview, which details accident statistics from the previous year. This is the most up-to-date information available on traffic accidents in the country. While the number of traffic fatalities decreased nationwide, the number of injuries in fact increased. Broken down into categories, the number of fatalities among large truck occupants, van occupants, bicyclists, pedestrians and motorcyclists actually increased.

Our Maryville car accident attorneys understand that the reduction in traffic-accident fatalities may be short lived. The number of fatalities witnessed during the last part of 2010 illustrated a significant increase. Safe driving experts expect this trend to continue as the economy grows stronger. With a more steady economy, residents feel more confident in getting out and traveling. An increase in traffic equates to an increase in your risks for an accident.

The NHTSA is doing more to specify the types of accidents we see on our roadways. With the release of this year’s report, the NHTSA introduced two new measures, the “distraction-affected crashes” and the “alcohol-impaired driving crashes.”

-Distraction-affected crashes: This measure is used as a way for the Administration to collect more data regarding the contributions of distractions in a traffic accident. The new measure is being used to zoom in on traffic accidents in which a driver was believed to have been distracted at the wheel during the accident. These types of accidents took the lives of roughly 3,100 people throughout the year.

-Alcohol-impaired driving crashes: This new measure is used to examine traffic accidents in which alcohol was most likely the cause. This measure allows researchers to look closer at accidents in which a driver had a blood alcohol level (BAC) of .08 or above, the legal limit for each state.

“We recognize our responsibility to improve our understanding of the dangers that continue to threaten drivers and passengers,” said NHTSA Administrator David Strickland.

Increases in traffic fatalities were witnessed by:

-Large truck occupants

-Motorcyclists

-Occupants of vans

-Pedestrians

-Bicyclists

-Urban-area traffic accidents

-The state of Tennessee. 2009: 986 fatalities. 2010: 1,031 fatalities.

Despite the recent announcement of a decrease in the national traffic accident fatality number, we’d like to point out that 20 states experienced increases. Drivers are urged to remain cautious and alert on our roadways. As motorists flock to our roadways during the holiday season, there will be more dangers lurking than ever. Drive defensively and alertly to avoid an accident. Have a Happy Holiday and New Year!

If you, a family member or a loved one has been injured in a traffic accident in Knoxville or in any of the surrounding areas, contact the Hartsoe Law Firm. For a free appointment call (865) 804-1011.

More Blog Entries: USDOT Promoting “OMG” Campaign to Halt Distraction-Related Car Accidents in Tennessee, Nation, Tennessee Injury Attorney Blog, December 10, 2011 Car Accident in Tennessee Kills 1, Injures 16, Involves 176 Vehicles, Tennessee Injury Attorney Blog, December 2, 2011

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports nine cyclists died in Tennessee bicycle accidents in 2009. Nationwide, about one-third of all fatal accidents involve a drunk driver. Tennessee drunk driving accidents claimed 332 lives that year.

The Tennessee State Highway Patrol reports the 73-year-old commissioner was jailed after the accident on Tennessee Highway 73. Authorities report a second bicyclist was also struck in the crash. The Knoxville News Sentinel reports he was driving a 2001 GMC 2500 Sierra pickup shortly before 10 p.m. when the truck struck the two women riding bikes. The paper reported the second cyclist, a 19-year-old woman from Seattle, Washington, was not injured.

In other Knoxville accidents news, the News Sentinel reports a Knoxville man is facing drunk driving charges after allegedly causing a hit-and-run accident. A motorist reportedly followed the suspect and subdued him with pepper spray until authorities arrived. The crash occurred about noon in the 9000 block of Kingston Pike.

A motorist who witnessed the accident called 911 and followed the 2004 Nissan Titan pickup truck outside the city and onto Concord Road in West Knox County. He confronted the suspect at a stop and a struggle ensued. The 51-year-old witness subdued the suspect with pepperspray and waited for police.

Many times, the victims of hit-and-run accidents question whether they should bother to consult with a Tennessee injury lawyer — particularly in cases where the at-fault driver is never identified. In such cases, it can be more important than ever to consult with an attorney with the knowledge and experience to determine whether you can make a claim. In some cases, when the driver is identified but uninsured, a claim may be filed against policies in place on other vehicles in the household. In other cases, a victim may be able to make a claim against his or her own insurance carrier.

Unfortunately, hit-and-run accidents are not uncommon and the at-fault driver is often lacking insurance or driving without a license. The News Sentinel recently reported the arrest of two men following a fatal hit-and-run Maryville car accident. That accident involved a victim who jumped from a moving vehicle.

If you or a loved one is injured in a Knoxville car accident, contact Hartsoe Law Firm, P.C. for a confidential appointment to discuss your rights with our Knoxville injury lawyers. Call (865) 804-1011.

The camp invited teens from ages 13- to 18-years-old from across the state, according to the Jackson Sun. About 350 teens spent the week at the camp participating in activities that aimed to explain the dangers of drinking and driving.

Our Tennessee personal injury attorneys understand that events like this are important in keeping our roadways safe. These drivers, teens and ones those who are impaired by alcohol, pose serious threats to motorists on our roadways. For this reason, the National Transportation Safety Board has placed both types of drivers on their “most wanted” list. This list targets these drivers and encourages government enforcement to reduce the risks of such traffic accidents.

“It’s really youth-driven and youth-led,” said Barry Cooper, director of JACOA, which helps organize TTI every year. “The student staff members work together, and they really make the camp.”

Teens are targeted at this camp because they are the most vulnerable on our roadways. Car accidents are the number one cause of death for teens in the United States. It is estimated that nearly 10 teens die on our roadways every day. This death rate is higher than for deaths related to cancer, gun violence or drugs among those in this age group.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), more than 5,000 teen drivers were involved in fatal traffic accidents in 2009 alone in the United States. Nearly 200 teen drivers in Tennessee died on our roadways during that year.

To help reduce the risks of these fatal teen car accidents, the NTSB recommends that all states enforce a graduated drivers license (GDL) . Luckily, Tennessee is one step ahead and already enforces the system, according to the Department of Safety & Homeland Security.

Under Tennessee’s GDL program, a teen must complete the following steps to get a full, unrestricted driver’s license:

–Tennessee Learner Permit: A teen must be 15-years-old and pass a standard vision screening. They’re also required to pass the Class D knowledge exam. New drivers are required to show proof of school attendance/progress from a current Tennessee school or a letter from the school in your previous state that confirms your attendance and acceptable grade marks.

–Tennessee Intermediate Driver License: A driver can get this license when they turn 16-years-old. They must have had a valid learner permit for a minimum of 180 days and must have completed 50 hours of behind the wheel driving experience, which needs to include 10 hours of night driving. They must then pass another road skills test.

–Tennessee Unrestricted Driver Silence: After all of the above steps are completed and requirements met, a teen can then apply for their full, unrestricted license.

Although teens are not old enough to consume alcohol, it doesn’t mean that they won’t. This is why the camp focuses on intoxicated driving as well. Through the camp, students will learn that nearly 11,000 people were killed in these preventable car accidents in 2009 on U.S. roadways. Drunk driving accidents account for nearly a third of all traffic accident fatalities. It is estimated that someone dies every 48 minutes because of these accidents. Tennessee witnessed nearly 350 deaths on our roadways because of accidents that involved an intoxicated driver.

To help combat intoxicated driving accidents, the NTSB recommends that states follow these tips:

-Limit plea bargaining deals in court.

-Limit diversion programs.

-Conduct a number of sobriety checkpoints.

-Enforce administrative license revocation for those who either refuse to take or fail a sobriety test.

-Install ignition-interlock devices in the vehicles on those who have been convicted of drinking while driving.

-Use jail alternatives, such as dedicated jail/treatment facilities, home detention with electronic monitoring or intensive supervision probation.

“This is building future leaders for the state in prevention,” said Cooper. “Some of these kids now are social workers or getting master’s degrees and doing things. They’re taking what they learned and moving on.”

If you or a loved one is injured or killed in an accident in Tennessee, contact Hartsoe Law Firm, P.C. for a confidential appointment to discuss your rights with our Knoxville injury lawyers and Maryville accident attorneys. Call (865) 804-1011.

More Blog Entries: Fewer Tennessee Trucking Accidents if Positive Drug Tests Followed Truckers from Job to Job, Tennessee Truck Accident Lawyer Blog, March 10, 2011 Drunk Tennessee Truck Driver Hits 17 Cars and Gets Only 48 Hours of Community Service , Tennessee Truck Accident Lawyer Blog, September 5, 2011

The pitcher, Ty’Relle Harris, suffered a leg injury and was taken by ambulance to the University of Tennessee Medical Center. These injuries were reported to by non-life threatening. He remains at the UT Medical Center.

Our Tennessee personal injury attorneys understand that almost everyone is involved in an accident at one time or another. It is important that we all do the right thing in these situations. Motorists are urged to check on one another to make sure that injuries receive the proper attention. Motorists are also to exchange information and report to authorities when necessary. Often in a hit-and-run crash, either the fleeing driver doesn’t have insurance or a valid license, or he or she may be under the influence of drugs or alcohol. If you’re the victim of a hit-and-run accident, you are urged to contact an experienced attorney immediately as recovery can be made against at-fault drivers.

In cases where a driver lacks insurance, a claim may be made against insurance policies in effect on other vehicles in the household. And in cases where the at-fault driver is not located, or does not have sufficient means to make a recovery, a victim may be able to make a claim against his or her own insurance carrier.

The hit-and-run driver was reportedly apprehended by the Knoxville Police Department after fleeing the scene. He is currently facing charges of leaving the scene of an accident, vehicular assault and drunken driving.

The Smokies are currently in the middle of a five-game series against the Chattanooga Lookouts at Smokies Park.

“Ty’Relle is a great teammate and we missed him tonight,” Smokies manager Brian Harper said. “He’s a good young man and there’s no question he would have pitched tonight. Hopefully he’ll get better.”

Hit-and-run accidents saw a near 19 percent jump in frequency from 1999 to 2001 and have continued to steadily rise since 2003, according to hitandrunreward.com. Hit-and-runs don’t only affect vehicle occupants, either. It is estimated that one out of every five pedestrians killed on our roadways die from a hit-and-run.

The AAA Foundation of Traffic Safety estimates that more than 20 percent of all fatal accidents from 1993 to 1999 involved a driver without a driver’s license. This is a common scenario in hit-and-run accidents.

If you witness a hit-and-run accident, you are encouraged to stop and help the victim and the police. Try to get a description on the fleeing car. Try to get the make, model and color of their vehicle. Try to get their license plate number and the direction in which they headed.

If you or a loved one is injured or killed in a Tennessee car accident, contact Hartsoe Law Firm, P.C. for a confidential appointment to discuss your rights with our Knoxville injury lawyers and Maryville accident attorneys. Call (865) 804-1011.

Additional Resources: Spencer’s HR completes Smokies’ comeback, by Adam Greene, knoxnews.com

Man charged in hit-and-run accident against former Vol Ty’Relle Harris at Cumberland Avenue business, by News Sentinel staff, knoxnews.com

More Blog Entries: Drunk Driving a Leading Cause of Car Accidents in Knoxville, Maryville, Tennessee Injury Attorney Blog, March 12, 2011 Weather, Super Bowl Weekend, Increase risk for Car Accidents in Knoxville, Maryville, Tennessee Injury Attorney Blog, February 5, 2011 New Technology could prevent Drunk Driving Car Accidents in Tennessee, Tennessee Injury Attorney Blog, January 28, 2011

A Pub Crawl is planned in the Old City for Wednesday night. As Channel 6 News reports, local merchants have organized a seven-bar pub crawl for $7. Seven bars means a long and exciting celebration for locals and visitors.

Knoxville personal injury lawyers encourage you to put safety first this holiday weekend. These pub crawls heighten the risk for drunk driving and Knoxville police will be on the lookout. “By doing bar checks and intensive patrols, or what we call saturation patrols in the areas with a lot of bars, a lot of extra officers on duty,” says Lt. Greg Hoskins.

According to The Center for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 35 people die every day in the United States as a result of drunk driving accidents. This means a person will die every 40 – 45 minutes in an accident with a drunk driver.

The “Drunk Driving. Over The Limit. Under Arrest.” campaign offers free, printable posters, templates, and banners to help keep you and your friends and businesses safe this St. Patrick’s Day.

“The best advice is, always a designated driver. It’s as simple as that. One person, nothing to drink. That was if you are stopped by police you should be fine,” says Lt. Hoskins.

DUI Checkpoint & Crime on the Road offers these tips to help keep Tennesseans safe this St. Patrick’s Day:

-Before you go out, designate a sober driver.

-If you’re impaired call a friend or family member, use public transportation or get a taxi.

-Use the local Sober Ride program.

-Call the police department if you seen an impaired driver on the road.

If you or a loved are involved in a drunk driving accident and need to speak to a Knoxville personal injury lawyer, contact the Hartsoe Law Firm, P.C. for a free and confidential consultation to discuss your rights. Call (865) 804-1011.

The accident happened in front of Rocky Hill Elementary School, located in the 1200 block of Morrell Road. A Honda traveling southbound slammed into a Toyota traveling northbound around 1:40 a.m. The driver of the southbound vehicle was cited for driving on a suspended license. Law enforcement suspect alcohol may have been involved.

All injuries sustained in the crash appeared non-life threatening.

Brittany Thomas, 21, and her 10-month old son Aiden were not so fortunate. It was a little over a year ago, when they were killed on Alcoa Highway by an accused drunk driver whose car drove across the median, flew into the air, and hit Brittany’s car.

WBIR-TV 10 reports that to honor these two victims law enforcement officials set up sobriety checkpoints along Alcoa Highway. Several agencies sponsored two billboards featuring Brittany and Aiden, and warning drivers on the tragic consequences of drinking and driving.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported nearly 11,000 people lost their lives in drunk driving accidents in 2009. This is at the alarming rate of about 1 every 45 minutes. In Tennessee 345 of 989 fatal crashes were alcohol related.

Other 2009 NHTSA facts about alcohol impaired driving:

-32% of total traffic fatalities are alcohol-related.

-14% of children (age 14 and under) died in alcohol-related crashes.

-37% of alcohol-related fatal crashes happen at night versus 9% during the day.

-16% of alcohol-related fatal crashes happen during the week versus 31% during the weekend.

-35% of the drivers in fatal alcohol crashes were 21 to 24 years old.

Always remember these safety tips:

-Before the celebrating begins designate a sober driver.

-Never serve alcohol to anyone under the age of 21.

-If you are hosting the event, provide non-alcoholic drinks as an option and stop serving at least an hour before the event ends.

-Don’t let anyone leave that has had too much.

If you or a loved one is injured or killed in an accident in Tennessee, contact Hartsoe Law Firm, P.C. for a confidential appointment to discuss your rights with our Knoxville injury lawyer and Maryville accident attorney. Call (865) 804-1011.

Historically, drivers that test positive for drugs and alcohol hop from state to state and job to job to avoid detection. Our Knoxville personal injury lawyers know these kind of drivers should not be behind the wheel of an 80,000 pound truck. As long as such job-hopping is permitted to continue, motorists will be at high risk for Tennessee trucking accidents involving drunk drivers.

The Safe Roads Act, S. 1113, was introduced by Senators Pryor, Snowe, Nelson and Wicker in May 2009. It would establish an all-inclusive national clearinghouse for positive alcohol and drug test results. The passage of this bill would undoubtedly make our roadways safer by reducing the risk of drunk drivers operating heavy commercial vehicles.

In 2008, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reported 1,041 large truck crashes each day. Nearly 12 people every day die in large truck accidents and an additional 246 are injured. In 2008, approximately 7% of all fatal crashes involved a large truck on Tennessee roads. It was reported that 2% of large truck drivers involved in fatal crashes had a blood alcohol content of .08 or higher.

Alcohol and drug testing is a fact of life in the trucking industry today. All truckers that have a commercial driver license (CDL) — whether owner-operators with a CDL or drivers employed by motor carriers — are subjected to drug and alcohol testing.

A study done by the Insurance Institute for Traffic Safety, as reported by Drug Library, found that 15% of all truckers had marijuana, 12% had non-prescription stimulants, 5% had prescription stimulants, and 2% had cocaine in their systems. Some truckers believe that marijuana use is safer than drinking, but studies show that effects on reaction time after smoking can last up to 24 hours.

A Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) study of crashes involving large trucks found that prescription drug use was a contributing factor in 28.7% of all crashes sampled and over-the-counter drugs were a contributing factor in 19.4% of crashes. Side effects from drugs can include: dizziness, drowsiness, blurred vision and confusion of which any could cause an accident.

If you or a loved one is injured or killed in atrucking accident in Tennessee, contact Hartsoe Law Firm, P.C. for a confidential appointment to discuss your rights with our Knoxville injury lawyers and Maryville accident attorneys. Call (865) 804-1011.

Our Knoxville personal injury attorneys are football fans like anyone else, but also know Super Bowl Sunday is one of the most dangerous days of the year when it comes to the risk for Tennessee drunk driving accidents.

Hosting or attending a Super Bowl party can be the highlight of the NFL season, as long as you drink and drive responsibly.

“Football is one of America’s favorite pastimes, but fans can put themselves in serious danger if they don’t plan ahead,” NHTSA Administrator David Strickland said. “Whether you’re at the game or watching from a sports bar or a friend’s house, designate a sober driver before the game. And remember, Fans Don’t Let Fans Drive Drunk.”

Drivers are considered over the legal limit when their blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is .08 or higher. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reported a total of 10,839 fatalities in alcohol-related crashes in 2009.

This equated to 32% of all motor vehicle traffic fatalities in the United States. During this time, 67% of fatalities in alcohol-related crashes were drivers with BAC of .08 or higher. There were a total of 989 traffic fatalities in the state of Tennessee in 2009; 35% of these fatalities occurred when at least one driver tested positive with a BAC of .01 or higher.

There were 198 fatalities in Tennessee when the BAC was tested at .15 or higher.

Nationally, alcohol-impaired fatal crashes were four-times higher at night than during the day in 2009.

Playing host to a Super Bowl Party can play a key role in getting drivers home safely after the game.

-Serve plenty of food and snacks throughout the game.

-Have plenty of non-alcoholic drinks like soda, juice, or water available.

-Have extra beds ready in case anyone needs to sleepover after drinking too much.

-Pick a point in the game in which you will stop providing alcohol to your guests and start offering coffee and dessert.

-Designate to drive so you and you friends can enjoy the game.

If you have been injured in a Tennessee drunk driving accident, contact Hartsoe Law Firm for experienced advice. For a free and confidential appointment call toll free at (865) 804-1011. Offices in Knoxville and Maryville.

Personal injury lawyers in Knoxville and Maryville are frequently called to assist victims and families in the aftermath of a Tennessee drunk driving accident. Each year, the federal government reports more than 11,000 people are killed in drunk driving accidents — or about 1 every 45 minutes. Alcohol was involved in more than one-third of fatal car accidents in Tennessee in 2009, accounting for 345 of 989 fatal crashes.

The DADSS technology was introduced on Friday at the Massachusetts lab where it is under development. The systems, which could be installed in new cars, test blood-alcohol level through touch or breath.

“Drunk driving continues to be a national tragedy that needlessly claims the lives of thousands of people on our highways each year,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood. “We need to put an end to it.”

Laura Dean-Mooney, the national president of Mothers Against Drunk Driving, was also on hand for the demonstration.

“Auto makers have stepped up to help turn cars into the cure,” she said. “This project has made substantial progress and this technology could one day be an important step in our efforts to eliminate drunk driving.”

The $10 million effort is a cooperative between the NHTSA and the Automotive Coalition for Traffic Safety (ACTS).

“What we’re doing is developing technology that won’t interfere with sober drivers, will require virtually no maintenance or upkeep and will have such precision that it only stops a driver when their blood alcohol content is .08 BAC or higher, which is the illegal limit for drunk driving in every state,” said ACTS Vice President Shane Karr. “Now that we have actual prototypes, a tremendous feat in itself, we’ll be working to identify the gaps in performance between these prototypes and the precise standards we’ve identified as true technology requirements. This will point the way forward for the next phase of research.”

NHTSA Administrator David Strickland called it the “new frontier in the fight against drunk driving” and said the next stage of testing could begin later this year.

If you or a loved one is injured or killed in a Tennessee car accident, contact Hartsoe Law Firm, P.C. for a confidential appointment to discuss your rights with our Knoxville injury lawyers and Maryville accident attorneys. Call (865) 804-1011.

Our Knoxville accident attorneys and staff wish each of you a safe and enjoyable holiday with friends and family. Please do your part to celebrate responsibly and help reduce the risks of Tennessee drunk driving accidents

Last year, 303 people were killed in Tennessee car accidents involving alcohol. So far this year, 994 motorists have died on Tennessee roadways, 48 more than during the same period a year ago. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports one-third of the nation’s traffic fatalities are the result of drunk driving, leading to the deaths of 11,000 motorists a year.

Somewhere in America, a motorist is killed by a drunk driver every 45 minutes.

“Traditionally, the time period between Christmas and New Year’s Day is a time of increased travel and alcohol consumption,” said THP Colonel Tracy Trott. “We hope to spread awareness of the dangers of drinking and driving by participating in both the Lights on for Life and National Holiday Lifesaver weekend enforcement activities with increased visibility throughout the state.”

Lights on for Life Day kicks off the “National Holiday Lifesaver Weekend,” a three-day DUI enforcement campaign that runs Dec. 17 to 19. The program, sponsored by the International Association of Chiefs of Police and the National Sheriff’s Association, has run each year since 1991 and is conducted on the weekend prior to Christmas.

“I am proud that our State Troopers are participating in such an important and unified effort to ensure a safe holiday season,” said Department of Safety Commissioner Dave Mitchell. “Tennesseans are encouraged to join in this movement and stand against impaired driving by turning their car headlights on throughout the day Friday.”

Sobriety checkpoints and driver license checkpoints will be conducted across the state this weekend. Tennessee law provides for a fine of up to $1,500 and a maximum penalty of up to 12 months in jail for first-time DUI offenders.

If you or a loved one is injured or killed in a car accident in Tennessee, contact Hartsoe Law Firm, P.C. for a confidential appointment to discuss your rights with our Knoxville injury lawyers and Maryville accident attorneys. Call (865) 804-1011.

Knoxville accident lawyers know that the start of the school year is a particularly dangerous time for school bus accidents, as parents, teachers and drivers become accustomed to bus routes and bus safety. But there is no excuse for permitting an intoxicated driver to operate a school bus. Both the school district and the contracted busing company should be asked some tough questions in the wake of this incident.

Traditionally, school buses are a relatively safe mode of transportation, with an average of just 19 fatalities reported nationwide each year, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. About half of those cases involve pedestrian accidents as a child is boarding or deboarding a school bus.

However, drunk driving is the leading cause of death on the nation’s roads, accounting for about one-third of all fatal auto accidents. In 2008, a total of 11,773 motorists were killed in alcohol-related crashes, of the 37,423 fatal accidents reported on the nation’s roads.

Additionally, Tennessee car accidents involving school buses can cause serious or fatal injuries to motorists, similar to those caused by tractor-trailer accidents or crashes with other large commercial vehicles.

Volunteer TV reports that the 63-year-old driver was driving the bus to pick up her first child, at about 6:30 a.m., when she rear-ended a truck at a red light on the I-40 East Bound exit ramp on Cedar Bluff Road. She was driving for Hensley Bus Lines; the bus was used for Cedar Bluff Elementary School and special education students at Hardin Valley Academy.

Police say she had a mix of alcohol and drugs in her system and was transported to the hospital so that a blood sample could be taken. She reportedly came close to striking another vehicle at least twice and ran up over a curb before rear-ending the box truck.

If you or a loved one is injured or killed in a Tennessee accident, contact Hartsoe Law Firm, P.C. for a confidential appointment to discuss your rights. Call (865) 804-1011.

Because Mr. Kent was a National Guardsman between deployments, the Court went easy on him and sentenced him to only 48 hours of community service. Kent’s insurance company will have a thick file of claims to sort through, including damage to 17 cars, destroyed signs, damaged yards, downed trees, uprooted sprinkler systems and other damage.

Knoxville injury attorney Mark Hartsoe has handled numerous cases against drunk drivers and impaired truckers. When outrageous conduct of this nature injures innocent members of society a message needs to be sent that this conduct will be penalized so that it does take children getting run over in a crosswalk for drunken trucking to be punished.

Tennessee courts have found that drunk driving sometimes warrants the imposition of punitive damages. The purpose of punitive damages is to punish the wrongdoer and deter others from committing similar wrongs in the future. It will be interesting to see whether any of the homeowners will seek the imposition of punitive damages. The danger posed by tractor trailers, which often weigh 20,000 pounds and cause great damage as a result of their tremendous size, would seem to warrant sending a message that this type of conduct cannot be permitted.

Truck Driver Who Terrorized Colorado Neighborhood Pleads Guilty, 24-7 Press Release, September 4, 2010