Slick roads, heavy congestion, increase risk of Tennessee car accidents this Thanksgiving

As the busiest travel weekend of the year unfolds, heavy congestion is anticipated across Tennessee highways the next few days, the Jackson Sun reports. Tennessee roads are expected to see passage of more than 900,000 travelers this holiday weekend.

With the hopes of reducing delays along the highways, the Tennessee Department of Transportation has halted all highway construction projects as of noon Wednesday with work resuming Monday morning.

In addition, the Tennessee Highway Patrol will be running randomly located sobriety checkpoints and driver’s license checks. On Wednesday the THP hosted a 12-hour seat-belt awareness campaign. There will also be an increased THP presence on state roadways. Extra officers will be patrolling the state through the holiday to assist stranded motorists, enforce traffic laws, and support traffic flow.

Knoxville car accident lawyer Mark C. Hartsoe would like to wish everyone a safe and enjoyable holiday with family, friends and loved ones. We would then like to remind drivers and passengers that along with more traffic – and slick weather conditions that include severe thunderstorms and sleet or snow – comes an increase in the risk of a Tennessee car accident. According to Clarksville TN online, in 2009, there were eight fatal Tennessee car crashes during the four days that make up the Thanksgiving holiday and 10 people were killed.

To keep drivers safe this holiday season, the Tennessee Department of Safety offers a few simple tips:

~ Before you hit the road, prepare your vehicle for an emergency situation. Make sure you car is in good working order and keep an emergency safety kit handy. THP recommends your safety kit include: a flashlight, jumper cables, a first aid kit, an empty gas can and reflectors. Water, non-perishable snacks, a pair of gloves, a warm blanket and a change of clothes.

~ Have a travel plan and share your itinerary with a trusted friend.

~ Make sure your cell phone (and your car’s battery) are fully charged.

~ If you need assistance or see a stranded motorists, dial *THP (*847) and let a dispatcher know the location and what type of assistance is needed.

If you are injured or a loved one is injured or killed in a Tennessee car accident, speaking with the Knoxville injury lawyers and Maryville accident attorneys with Hartsoe Law Firm, P.C. can help you better understand your rights. Call 865-804-1011 or contact us online to schedule a confidential appointment.