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“Lights on for Life” aims to Reduce Risk of Car Accidents in Tennessee Involving Drunk Drivers
The Tennessee Highway Patrol and other law enforcement agencies throughout the state will participate in “Lights on for Life” this Friday, as a reminder of the dangers of drunk driving as we head into the busy holiday travel season.
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.