Tennessee driving courses aiming to prevent dangerous drivers [Video]

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WVLT) -The “100 Deadliest Days of Summer” begins following Memorial Day. This period goes until Labor Day and marks a time when teenage drivers are more at risk on the road.

“It can get really dangerous. You’ve been in school, you’re ready to get out and have some fun, and you have to realize your focus has to be on the driving,” Drive-Rite owner Craig Smith said.

The Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security released data regarding crash statistics in Tennessee. The study showed trends and numbers of crashes, including crashes involving drivers aged 15-19.

The study found that in 2023, Knox County had 20,300 licensed drivers aged 15-19; of that number, 1,749 were involved in car accidents.

Craig Smith has been a driving instructor for 36 years; he says distracted driving plays a significant role in teenage car accidents.

“Your hands off the wheel, your eyes …