Top 10 scary but true facts about auto accidents

Car accidents are scary, and the statistics prove it. In addition to the loss of life and pain that comes with it, there is also an economic loss to consider. The person that was injured may not be able to work anymore due to their injuries. Or, think about the family who has to figure out how to survive with only one income because the breadwinner died in an accident.

These are not fun statistics to look at. However, it's important to talk about the facts surrounding car accidents so we know, as a community, what we can do to reduce these numbers.

We hope that seeing these stats will make you think twice before driving distracted or aggressively.

1. 1.3 million people die in car accidents each year, which means there are more than 3,287 deaths a day in car wrecks worldwide.

2. Car wrecks are the leading cause of death among people ages 15-29 worldwide.

3. In the United States alone, 37,000 people die in car wrecks each year.

4. In 2015, more than 6,700 people were injured in car accidents each day.

5. Speeding was a leading cause in more than 28% of all car accident fatalities in 2014. 

6. Among drivers 18-29 years old, almost half (48%) of all drivers admitted to using a phone to browse the internet while driving.

7. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration found that more than 56% of all deaths on roadways between 2003 and 2007 were caused by aggressive driving.

8. In 2014, 3,903 people died in accidents involving tractor trailers.

9. In Tennessee alone, 958 people died in car accidents in 2015.

10. In Tennessee in 2015, 123 motorcyclists died in accidents, 12 of which were not wearing a helmet.

It's always best to drive cautiously and with your full attention on the road. We hope that you continue to help make our roads safer by considering the following safety tips.

1. Allow yourself enough time to get from place to place.

2. Drive without distractions. Putting on makeup, eating, or searching for a cool restaurant while driving is dangerous.

3. Drive calmly. Keep a cool head, and realize that aggressive driving does cause accidents.

4. Be aware of your surroundings. Watch out for big trucks and give them the space they need.

5. Look at the weather and adjust accordingly.

We can all play a part in reducing auto accident statistics. Join us in driving responsibly, Tennessee.