Through the end of July, the Knoxville Police Department and Tennessee Highway Patrol will team up to conduct enhanced, high-visibility traffic enforcement in an effort to prevent fatal crashes.
That initiative will run through July 31st and focus specifically on state routes in and around Knoxville, including I-40, I-75, Broadway Street, Pellissippi Parkway, Magnolia Avenue, Clinton Highway and Chapman Highway.
“Keeping the roads safe is one of our top priorities,” Chief of Police Paul Noel said. “We will be vigorous and visible in our efforts to eliminate the reckless or careless behavior that makes the roads less safe. I appreciate our partners at THP for linking arms with us to deter serious, life-altering crashes.”
As of July 26, there have been 30 fatal crashes in Knoxville with a total of 31 deaths, which is well ahead of last year’s pace. At the same time in 2022, there were 19 fatal crashes with a total of 19 deaths.
The 2023 total includes five pedestrian fatalities and five motorcycle fatalities.
Nearly 25 percent of this year’s fatal crashes have happened on either I-40 or I-75. Other roads with multiple fatal crashes this year include Magnolia Avenue (4), Chapman Highway (3), Alcoa Highway (2) and Broadway Street (2).
Of the 21 fatalities so far in 2023 that were not pedestrians or motorcyclists, nearly 50 percent were not wearing seatbelts.
The Knoxville Police Department reminds motorists to obey the rules of the road, reduce distractions and pay attention, slow down, buckle up and never drive while under the influence.