Operation Incognito Aims To Curb Distracted Driving

Distracted Driving

4/17/2019 Car Accidents John Whitfield

In coordination with Distracted Driving Month, the Tennessee Highway Patrol kicked off an initiative in April to increase enforcement of distracted driving. Operation Incognito is an effort to help eliminate distracted driving and make the roads safer for all drivers. The campaign started last year, with the goal of decreasing the number of crashes.

From 2008 to 2018, Tennessee saw more than 200,000 crashes related to distracted driving. “The primary focus of Operation Incognito is to reduce distracted driving, serious injury crashes, and fatalities,” said THSO Director Vic Donoho. “A secondary focus will promote awareness for high-risk construction zones across Tennessee. As crashes continue to increase, the THSO and partners are committed to enhancing the motoring public’s safety through education and enforcement.”

At least one study found Tennessee was one of the five worst states for distracted driving, which were responsible for 31% of all distracted driving fatalities from 2015 to 2017. The fatality rate in Tennessee, which topped the list, was 7.2 distracted driving deaths per 10 billion vehicle miles, nearly five-times the national average of 1.49 fatalities.

According to Driver Knowledge, around two million drivers in car accidents experience permanent injuries every year. More than 90% of car crashes involve human error. Being attentive while driving helps prevent crashes that lead to injury and death. While cell phones are often to blame when it comes to distracted driving, different distractions can affect drivers in different ways. You cannot drive safely unless the task of driving has your full attention. Any non-driving activity you engage in is a potential distraction and increases your risk of crashing.

Tips To Avoid Distracted Driving From the Tennessee Highway Safety Office:

  • Put down your phone
  • Set your GPS ahead of time
  • Secure your kids and pets
  • Eat before getting into the car

Nashville Car Accident Lawyers

There is never a charge to discuss your car accident case with a lawyer at our firm. We accept no legal fees unless we obtain a verdict or settlement on your behalf. If you or a loved one was injured in an accident caused by a distracted driver, please contact our law firm right away to schedule a free consultation and case evaluation with one of our attorneys at (615) 921-6500 before evidence is lost.