Winter Increases risk of Trucking Accidents in Tennessee

Volunteer TV reported that the Tennessee Highway Patrol handled more than 120 crashes, including 42 injury accidents, during last weekend’s poor weather. Several troopers were also injured when their cruisers were struck by an out-of-control vehicle at the scene of a previous crash.

Motorists are at increased risk of Tennessee trucking accidents during bad weather and throughout the busy holiday travel season. Staying well back form large trucks or snow plows is the safest course of action. Pass with care and always beware of the dangers associated with reduced visibility, black ice and other winter driving hazards.

Last year was a record year for snow removal in Tennessee and authorities this year are expecting more of the same. “Last year’s winter storms forced TDOT crews to use twice as much salt and three times as much salt brine as we normally use during a winter season to keep our roads clear of ice and snow,” said TDOT Commissioner Gerald Nicely. “After replenishing our supply our crews are ready to go to work keeping Tennesseans moving this winter season.”

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration offers the following safe winter driving tips:

-Property maintain your vehicle.

-Keep an emergency kit, including flashlight, jumper cables, sand, shovel, ice scraper, flares, blankets, food, water and medicine.

-Always drive with a charged cell phone.

-If stopped or stalled, stay with your car. Run car just enough to stay warm. Make sure to keep exhaust pipe clear.

-Plan your route and allow plenty of time to reach your destination. Let others know where you are going and when you plan to arrive.

-Steer into a skid.

-Maintain plenty of stopping distance between you and the vehicle ahead.

If you or a loved one is injured or killed in a trucking 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.