Tennessee Injury Law Center
Tomorrow is the first full day of classes for Metro Nashville schools. Williamson County and Rutherford County schools are already in full swing, and a host of private schools start classes next week. But, judging by recent statistics, drivers are the ones who need to go back to school. For example, in some areas, tickets issued for speeding in excess of 100 mph have more than doubled since the start of the pandemic. With more children in and around the roads, we all need to evaluate our driving practices. Here is what you can do to help:
- Slow down. This is especially true in school zones. If you get this wrong, you will learn that fines for moving violations in school zones are increased.
- Stop for school buses when the lights are activated. Drivers in both directions must stop regardless of the number of lanes. The only exception is for divided highways. On a divided highway, only the drivers behind the bus must stop. If you get this wrong, you can expect 8 points on your license.
- Put down your phone while driving. Since July 1, 2019, it has been against the law to hold a phone while operating a motor vehicle. If you are under the age of 18, a violation is 6 points on your license. If you are over 18, it is 3 points. And, of course, a fine.
- Be patient. In a school zone, drivers must wait until the pedestrian has fully crossed the road not just your lane of travel.
- Be vigilant. Motorists need to watch out for children who enter the roadway unexpectedly. Children at bus stops tend to play and goof off to pass the time. A child who has forgotten something on the bus might dart back into the roadway to try and get it.
- If you have kids who are driving, discuss your expectations with them. For example: No putting on make-up while driving, be sure they buckle up, no holding their phone and driving, etc. In addition, keep their vehicle in good operating condition. Tires should have plenty of tread and be inflated properly. Brakes should be well-maintained, etc.
- Report bad driving. For example, if you see a bus driver blowing through stop signs or speeding, report it to the school. If you notice drivers ignoring school zone speeds, contact your local police precinct and ask them to step-up enforcement.
At the Law Offices of John Day, we hope everyone has a healthy and happy school year. If you should need us, we are always here to help. Our award-winning lawyers handle all accident cases on a contingency-basis so we only get paid if we recover money for you and your family. Before you hire any lawyer, even us, do your homework. Below are some links to important information to help you:
How to Select an Injury Attorney
How to Prepare for a Meeting With an Injury Attorney
How Do I Represent Myself in an Injury Case?
For a free, confidential, no-obligation consultation simply give us a call at one of the numbers below:
Nashville: 615-669-3993
Murfreesboro: 615-867-9900
Brentwood: 615-742-4880
Toll-Free: 866-812-8787