Tennessee Highway Patrol begins holiday enforcement

JACKSON, Tenn. — Thousands of people hit the highways Friday in the state of Tennessee. In hopes of keeping everyone safe, the Tennessee Highway Patrol is partnering with members of the Tennessee Trucking Association to educate drivers about how to share the road with the big rigs.

The holiday weekend brings more drivers out on the highways. Just off I-40 east, THP provided a safety break at a rest stop where drivers got a chance to get a snack and learn a little about trucks on the highway.

“Last year, seven people died during the Fourth of July holiday. We don’t want to see that happen again,” Lt. Brad Wilbanks said.

The TTA wants more people to be aware of what trucks experience while on the road.

“[In] 70 to 75 percent of fatal accidents involving trucks, the car caused it, and over 35 percent of those it was in the blind spot of the truck,” truck driver David Magee said.

Many people don’t realize that trucks have huge blind spots called “no-zones.” The no-zones are located around the front, back and sides of the truck. With the holiday just around the corner, it’s important for people to take the necessary precautions.

“Wear your seat belts, folks,” Lt. Wilbanks said. “The best defense against a distracted driver or a drunk driver is a seat belt.”

Officers say it is important to be patient when you encounter an aggressive driver or to just let them go around you to prevent an accident.

The Tennessee Highway Patrol will continue holiday enforcement until midnight on the Fourth of July.