Teen traffic deaths on the rise in TN | News

(WMC-TV) - There has been an increase number of fatalities in Tennessee, with over 600 car accident deaths just this year.

Studies indicate that of those 600 plus car accident deaths, many of the fatalities may be among drivers ranging in ages from 15-24.

The laws that are suppose to be enforced in the state of Tennessee, like texting and driving under the influence, may be contributed to the lack of penalties for dangerous violations.

Some of those violations include failure to wear a seat belt with a $50 fine and texting while driving over the age of 18 also a $50 fine.

Teenagers under the age of 18 are fined $100 and those offenders are subject to restrictions on their driving privileges.

The studies also suggest another factor for the increase in teen driving deaths is not enough of a mandate during driver's education course in the state.

Right now Nashville's teen driving deaths are at a rate of 22.7 per 100,000. This makes Nashville the third highest in teen fatalities behind Birmingham, AL and Jacksonville, FL.