Chattanooga traffic deaths rise; alcohol figured in half of fatalities

Traffic fatalities decreased across the state in 2013, but Chattanooga experienced a sharp increase — particularly in alcohol-related traffic deaths.

Of the 28 traffic fatalities in Chattanooga, half were alcohol related, records show. That’s twice the rate of alcohol-related traffic fatalities statewide and an increase from nine such deaths out of 22 total in 2012.

As a result, Chattanooga Police Department’s Traffic Unit will step up enforcement.

“We’re going to be increasing the bar checks. We’re going to be holding bars accountable if they are serving people to the point of intoxication,” said Chattanooga Traffic Sgt. David Gibb.