There are many different kinds of motorists on the roads in Knoxville. With the number of car accidents increasing daily, many people are not aware that there are risk factors that make them more susceptible to motor vehicle wrecks than others. Drivers who know these risks can take better precautions to avoid them.

According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, Highway Loss Data Institute, in 2015, there were 32,166 fatal car accidents. Many of those accidents were caused by high-risk drivers. The following motorists are more likely to cause and become involved motor vehicle wrecks than other drivers.

Many teens are still learning how to operate their vehicles. They lack experience, judgement skills and the knowledge they need to avoid dangerous driving situations. They are also more likely to endanger themselves and others when they drive with passengers and use their electronic devices for social media, selfies and surfing the internet.

Male drivers are usually more aggressive than female drivers and are also more likely to disregard traffic rules and signals. Also, some male motorists tend to drive after consuming alcohol. Drunk drivers are responsible for 3,423 deaths across the state, states the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Fatigued motorists are also responsible for car accidents. Drivers who are too sleepy to drive and unable to focus their attention on the roads often end up crashing into pedestrians, animals, buildings and other motorists.

Car accidents are a common occurrence, but they do not have to be. Drivers who practice safe driving behaviors and avoid motorists who exhibit any of the above risks can minimize their chances of being involved in them.