Motor Vehicle Crash Prevention Program
The Motor Vehicle Crash Prevention Program works to reduce injuries and deaths on roadways by promoting safe driving behaviors, safer transportation systems, and evidence-based prevention strategies.Preventing Motor Vehicle Crashes and Traffic-Related Injuries
Motor vehicle crashes are a leading cause of injury and death in the United States and are largely preventable. Risky driving behaviors, impaired driving, lack of seat belt use, and unsafe road conditions all contribute to crashes and serious injuries.
The Injury Prevention Program supports education, partnerships, and data-driven strategies to reduce motor vehicle crashes and improve safety for drivers, passengers, pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorcyclists.
Why Motor Vehicle Crash Prevention Matters
- Motor vehicle crashes are a leading cause of injury-related deaths across multiple age groups.
- Crashes place a significant burden on families, communities, and healthcare systems.
- Many crashes are preventable through safer behaviors, vehicles, and road environments.
- Prevention efforts save lives and reduce long-term disability and costs.
What the Injury Prevention Program Does
- Promotes evidence-based traffic safety interventions
- Supports education and outreach campaigns
- Collaborates with transportation, law enforcement, and community partners
- Uses crash and injury data to guide prevention efforts
- Encourages policy and system-level approaches to roadway safety
Tennessee Injury Prevention Companion Initiatives and Programs
Contact
Contact the Injury and Violence Prevention Program at (615) 532-7778 for information on any of our initiatives.
For information specifically about Child Safety Seat Distribution, call (615) 532-0394.
Vehicle Safety + Safe Driving = Crash Prevention
Who Is at Risk
- Anyone who uses the roadways is at risk, including:
- Drivers and passengers
- Teen and young adult drivers
- Older drivers
- Pedestrians and bicyclists
- Motorcyclists
- Rural roadway users
Common Risk Factors
- Speeding
- Impaired driving (alcohol, drugs, or medications)
- Distracted driving (texting, phone use)
- Not wearing seat belts or child safety seats
- Inexperienced drivers
- Poor road conditions or low visibility
Motor Vehicle Crash Prevention Strategies
Safe Driving Behaviors
- Always wear a seat belt
- Never drive impaired
- Obey speed limits and traffic laws
- Avoid distractions while driving
- Use appropriate child safety seats and booster seats
Vehicle Safety
- Ensure vehicles are properly maintained
- Use vehicles with modern safety features
- Check tires, brakes, and lights regularly
Roadway and Community Safety
- Support safe road design and traffic calming measures
- Improve lighting, signage, and crosswalks
- Promote safe routes for pedestrians and bicyclists
Resources and Helpful Links
This Page Last Updated: March 26, 2026 at 4:51 PM