DEALS GAP – Tennessee and North Carolina officials reminded people Tuesday to drive safely if they travel along the “Tail of the Dragon,” a winding stretch of U.S. 129 bordering both states.
The “Tail of the Dragon” takes people on a ride that has become well-known, but dangerous for motorcyclists and automobile enthusiasts because the 11-mile stretch includes 314 curves.
Officials want people who travel the road to drive the speed limit, stay in your lane, keep a safe distance between you and the vehicle ahead of you, always wear your seat belt and never drive distracted. Use the paved pull-offs for any sight-seeing.
“The mountains of North Carolina and Tennessee have some of the most appealing motorcycling terrain in the world, but that also means more motorcycle crashes than other places,” said Mark Ezzell, director of the N.C. Governor’s Highway Safety Program. “This cross-border enforcement effort shows our common commitment to keeping all road users, including motorcycle riders, safe in this unique area by encouraging reasonable speeds and attentive driving.”
Participating Tuesday were officials with the N.C. State Highway Patrol, Swain County Sheriff Office, Tennessee Highway Safety Office and Tennessee law enforcement agencies.
“We are committed to partnering with all law enforcement agencies,” said Tennessee Highway Safety Office Law Enforcement Liaison Armando Fontes. “Our mission is to reduce crashes and injuries, making our roadways safer for all motorists. One life lost is too many.”
In 2021 and 2022, there were 17 crashes on the North Carolina side of the Tail of the Dragon. Five of those crashes involved serious injuries. Twelve of the 17 crashes involved motorcycles.
“Our law enforcement commitment to residents and visitors to this area who are looking to safely enjoy a scenic ride is that of continued traffic safety education and enforcement to help make an enjoyable time for all,” said Maj. Keyla Bell of the North Carolina State Highway Patrol. “And while we hope that being a visible deterrent is sufficient, we understand that our strict enforcement of motor vehicle laws is necessary for some and can be counted upon to help prevent what we see as preventable life changing events.”