Elizabethton, TN – As drivers set New Year’s resolutions, law enforcement in Carter County is urging motorists to make road safety a top priority, warning that speeding continues to cause thousands of crashes across Tennessee.
According to the Carter County Sheriff’s Office, speeding contributed to 6,518 crashes on Tennessee roadways in 2024, underscoring the ongoing dangers of driving too fast for road or traffic conditions. Officials say excessive speed reduces reaction time, increases stopping distance, and significantly raises the risk of serious injury or death during a collision.
The sheriff’s office shared the reminder as part of a statewide traffic safety push, encouraging drivers to resolve to slow down in 2026. The message comes amid continued enforcement efforts across Carter County, Northeast Tennessee, and the greater Tri-Cities region, where traffic volume often increases during holidays, weekends, and seasonal travel periods.
Law enforcement officials stress that speeding isn’t limited to highways. Many serious crashes occur on rural and secondary roads, where curves, hills, and limited shoulders can make even moderate speeding deadly. Authorities also note that speed-related crashes frequently involve young drivers and often worsen outcomes when combined with distracted or impaired driving.
The campaign directs residents to tntrafficsafety.org/speeding, where drivers can learn more about how speed affects crash severity and what steps can be taken to reduce risk behind the wheel.
As patrols continue into the new year, officials are asking drivers to obey posted speed limits, allow extra travel time, and remain patient during congestion.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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