Tennessee ranked 3rd most dangerous state for teenage drivers
Share this @internewscast.com

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) — Speeding, distracted driving and alcohol are putting teenagers at risk on the road, with teen vehicle deaths on the rise.

Tennessee is listed among the most dangerous states for teenage drivers.

Schools are out for the summer, which means more people are hitting the road, including teen drivers.

“They just don’t have the experience yet, like anyone that is new to anything that you’re doing,” Tennessee Highway Patrol Lt. Bill Miller said.

Troopers said teenagers’ driving inexperience can be dangerous.

According to the most recent data from Zutobi.com in 2023, Tennessee had 41 deaths for every 100,000 teenage drivers.

“Tennessee is quite a unique state,” remarked Miller. “The population is rising, motor vehicle traffic is increasing, and we still have numerous rural highways, which create challenges for young drivers.”

Investigators said the top causes for teenage driving deaths are alcohol, distracted driving and speeding.

“The slower you go, the safer you are,” Miller said.

They also encouraged drivers to buckle up.

“We frequently observe young white males driving unrestrained in pick-up trucks,” Miller noted. “The reason behind this behavior is unclear, but we are diligently working to understand, educate, and address it.”

Troopers said parents should talk with their teens about safe driving habits to help prevent a heartbreaking knock at the door.

“When we show up at their doorstep, they immediately realize we’re not there with good news,” Miller explained. “Their world collapses as they learn their child has died in a car accident.”

Zutobi.com ranked Tennessee as the third most dangerous state for teen drivers behind Mississippi and Kentucky. Alaska is considered the safest state.

Share this @internewscast.com
You May Also Like

Kingsport Hosts Annual ‘Blessing of the Animals’ Event for Local Pets

In Kingsport, Tennessee, a unique event unfolded on Saturday as fifteen local…

Urbana Celebrates 15th Year of Pride Fest: Illinois’ Second Largest LGBTQ+ Event Returns

This past Saturday, the streets of Urbana were alive with celebration as…

North Carolina Court Grants Postponement in Sean Williams Trials, Impacting Case Timeline

ASHEVILLE, N.C. (WJHL) — In a recent decision, Federal Judge W. Carleton…

High School Athletics Update: October 25, 2023

The postseason excitement has kicked off for boys’ soccer and cross country…

Over 4,300 Migrants Expelled from Minneapolis Since January, Reports Governor Noem

In a recent announcement, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem revealed that since…

Green Interchange Launches Ambitious Reforestation Project to Restore Tree Habitats Post-Helene

GREENEVILLE, Tenn. (WJHL) — A year has passed since Hurricane Helene wreaked…

Undercover Operation Leads to Two Arrests and $25,000 Seizure

HILTON HEAD ISLAND, S.C. () — Authorities have apprehended two men, accusing…

Tragic Turn in Decatur: 17-Year-Old’s Death Sparks Ongoing Homicide Investigation

DECATUR, Ill. (WCIA) — A tragic shooting on Friday night claimed the…

Shooting Near Howard University Homecoming: 5 Wounded, Suspects Arrested

WASHINGTON (DC News Now) — On Friday night, a shooting near Howard…

Trump and President Xi Gear Up for Pivotal Meeting Amid Eased Trade Tensions

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia (AP) — Trade tensions between the United States and…

Trump Embarks on Asia Tour Amid Prolonged U.S. Government Shutdown, Set to Meet China’s Xi

President Donald Trump embarked on his inaugural trip to Asia during his…

Iconic TV Matriarch June Lockhart of ‘Lassie’ and ‘Lost In Space’ Passes Away at 100

LOS ANGELES — June Lockhart, who graced television screens as a beloved…