If you have driven through Nashville, you know the city’s roads can be unpredictable. With heavy traffic, impatient drivers, and major highways cutting through the area, it is no surprise that car accidents are common. In fact, Nashville recorded over 24,300 traffic accidents in 2022 alone, making it one of the most accident-prone areas in Tennessee. If you are dealing with the aftermath of a crash, knowing what the statistics say can help you understand the risks and take action. Seeking legal help after a traffic accident can make a big difference in getting the compensation you deserve.
How Dangerous Are Nashville Roads?
Nashville has almost 19% of the state’s car crashes, even though its residents comprise only 10% of Tennessee’s population. That means if you live in Nashville, you are nearly twice as likely to be involved in a car accident compared to other parts of the state.
A U.S. News & World Report study even ranked Nashville as the 16th most dangerous city for drivers in the country. This ranking was based on several factors, including the total number of traffic fatalities and the accident rate relative to the population.
When Do Most Accidents Happen?
The most dangerous time to be on the road in Nashville is during the evening rush hour (3 p.m. – 6 p.m.). In 2022, this three-hour window accounted for over 5,000 traffic accidents, making up 20.9% of all crashes in the city. With packed roads and stressed-out commuters, the risk of collisions increases dramatically.
Weekdays also tend to be more accident-heavy than weekends. Nashville sees an average of 3,597 crashes per weekday, compared to 3,172 crashes per weekend day—a 12% drop when Saturday and Sunday roll around.
What Are the Most Common Causes of Accidents?
Several factors contribute to Nashville’s high accident rates, but two stand out:
- Speeding: It was a factor in only 4.3% of all crashes but was responsible for 14.7% of fatal crashes, meaning it nearly triples the odds of a crash turning deadly.
- Distracted Driving: Even with public awareness campaigns, distractions like texting, eating, or adjusting the GPS caused 1,388 crashes in 2022—about 6% of all accidents.
The Impact of Accidents on Victims
Car accidents in Nashville led to 136 fatal crashes and over 9,200 injury crashes in 2022. Among those injured or killed:
- 134 people died within 30 days of the crash.
- 677 people suffered serious injuries requiring hospitalization.
- 491 pedestrians were injured in collisions, along with 51 bicyclists.
These numbers show just how severe the consequences of a car accident can be, especially for vulnerable road users like pedestrians and cyclists.
What to Do If You’re in an Accident
Nobody plans to get into an accident, but knowing what to do next is crucial if it happens. Here are some key steps:
- Check for injuries and call 911 if needed.
- Document the scene—take photos, gather witness statements, and get the other driver’s information.
- File a police report useful for insurance claims and legal actions.
- Seek medical attention, even if you feel fine, as injuries can appear later.
- Consult a lawyer to understand your options for compensation.
Conclusion
Nashville’s accident statistics paint a clear picture: driving in the city comes with significant risks. Whether it is rush-hour congestion, speeding drivers, or distracted motorists, accidents can happen in an instant. You can reduce your chances of becoming part of these statistics by staying informed and driving defensively. And if you do find yourself involved in an accident, getting the proper legal support can make all the difference in your recovery process.
