Every time we get in our vehicles, we risk getting into an accident. Because of this, we often take as many precautions as we can to avoid one. We wear our seat belts, put our phones away, obey the speed limit and drive defensively.
Another precaution you can take to steer clear of a serious car accident is being aware of when and where most accidents happen in Tennessee.
Most dangerous locations
Across Tennessee, some counties are more dangerous than others. For instance, Shelby and Davidson counties reported the highest number of fatal accidents last year. This makes sense, as they have the highest populations.
However, accident rates also increase in rural areas with lower populations. Often, this is due to high speeds and fewer lanes on rural roads. It can also be easier for someone to become distracted or drowsy in areas where there isn’t any other traffic.
Intersections can also be particularly dangerous, as people can get confused. And some statistics report that drivers are more likely to get into an accident close to their homes, as they may not be as attentive.
Most dangerous times
According to the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security, the times when the most accidents happen in this state are:
- In October
- On Fridays
- Between the hours of 3 p.m. and 6 p.m.
In other words, accidents can be more likely to occur when people are driving home from work at the end of the week.
Using this information
Readers can use this information in a few ways to stay safer. You might use it to adjust your driving schedule. For instance, instead of leaving the house to do some grocery shopping on Friday afternoon, you might opt to go at another time or on a different day.
You could also be especially mindful and diligent when you are driving in certain areas that are more dangerous. And instead of getting more relaxed with your driving when you are in a familiar location or on a quiet road, you can remind yourself of these risks and remain alert and compliant with traffic laws.
We cannot predict the future, but we can use past data to make safer choices when we are behind the wheel to avoid an accident.
