RUTHERFORD COUNTY, TN - As the year draws to an end, driving statistics for Rutherford County reveal both areas of improvement and causes for concern. According to data compiled from the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security, a total of 29,923 accidents were reported in Rutherford County this year.

Among the contributing factors to these accidents, distracted or drowsy driving accounted for 3,052 incidents, while 1,836 accidents were linked to drinking or drug use. Speeding also played a significant role, with 2,014 accidents involving drivers exceeding the speed limit in the Murfreesboro, Smyrna, and LaVergne area.

Tennessee appears to be ending the year with a 1.5% increase in fatal accidents, with 1,316 reported as of December 28. Comparatively, December 28, 2022, recorded 1,297 fatal accidents, while the same date in 2021 saw 1,319 traffic fatalities. Unfortunately, Rutherford County has experienced no change in the number of fatal accidents when comparing 2022 and 2023. Both this year and last recorded 38 fatalities year-to-date, while 2021 year-over-year numbers were 9 less, at 29. Broken down, there was a 31% jump in fatalities when comparing 2021 and 2022 years.

The number of pedestrian fatalities in Rutherford County has shown some variation. In 2023, there were two fewer pedestrian fatalities compared to the same period last year, and one less than the year-to-date numbers recorded in 2021. The state's documentation reports three pedestrian fatalities in 2021, four in 2022, and two in 2023.

Distracted driving-related accidents resulted in five fatalities this year, marking an increase from two last year and none (year-to-date) in 2021. South of Murfreesboro, in Bedford County, the statistics are more alarming, with 16 traffic fatalities representing a 100% jump from the previous year. The comparison between 2021 and 2022 shows a similar 100% increase, and when comparing 2021 to 2023, there has been a staggering 200% uptick in fatalities in Bedford County.

As the year concludes, these driving statistics underscore the need for continued efforts in promoting road safety and awareness, with a focus on addressing the specific challenges contributing to accidents in Rutherford County and its neighboring areas. Authorities and communities alike are encouraged to work collaboratively to implement measures that enhance road safety and reduce the risk of accidents in the coming year.