Car Accidents

Compassion When You Need It

A car accident can change your life in a moment. If you're facing painful injuries, missed work, or mounting bills after a crash on a Tennessee road, you're not alone. At AskLitigation, we understand how overwhelming this time can be. Many people have questions about what steps to take, what rights they have, and whether they can recover damages for their injuries. We're here to guide you through the legal process, answer your questions, and help you regain control.

Car crashes are one of the most common types of traffic accidents in Tennessee. Our attorneys help people navigate not only car accidents but also motorcycle accidents and pedestrian accidents.

What Counts as a Car Accident?

A car accident is any collision involving at least one motor vehicle that causes injury, death, or property damage. These can include:

Rear-end collisions
Intersection accidents
Multi-vehicle pileups
Hit-and-run crashes
Distracted or impaired driving incidents
Weather-related accidents common in Tennessee

If you're hurt in a crash, you may have a claim under personal injury law. In some cases, car accidents are linked to defective vehicle parts or dangerous road conditions.

Tennessee Laws on Car Accidents

Tennessee law protects drivers, passengers, and pedestrians injured in car accidents, but with important differences from other states:

You have one year from the date of the crash to file a claim for injuries (much shorter than most states)
Tennessee uses a modified comparative fault system—if you're 50% or more at fault, you cannot recover compensation
All drivers must carry minimum liability insurance ($25,000/$50,000/$15,000)
Tennessee has a higher rate of uninsured drivers, making uninsured motorist coverage crucial

Car accident claims often involve both state and federal rules. For example, crashes involving commercial trucks may also be governed by federal regulations. Learn more about truck accidents and the additional complexities they bring.

What Are Drivers Required to Do?

Tennessee drivers have legal obligations before and after a crash:

Stay at the scene and exchange information
Report any accident causing injury, death, or property damage over $1,500 to law enforcement
Provide aid to anyone who is injured
Notify your insurance company promptly
File a crash report with Tennessee Department of Safety if police don't respond

Leaving the scene of an accident with injuries is a felony in Tennessee and can result in criminal charges in addition to civil liability.

Common Causes of Tennessee Car Accidents

Tennessee's unique geography and traffic patterns contribute to specific types of accidents:

Urban Areas (Nashville, Memphis, Knoxville):

Heavy congestion leading to rear-end collisions
Distracted driving in stop-and-go traffic
Aggressive driving and road rage incidents

Rural Areas:

High-speed collisions on country roads
Head-on crashes from passing attempts
Single-vehicle accidents into trees or ditches

Interstate Highways:

I-40, I-65, and I-75 see frequent truck accidents
Weather-related crashes during storms
Construction zone accidents

Weather-Related Factors:

Ice storms causing multi-vehicle pileups
Heavy rainfall leading to hydroplaning
Fog in mountainous regions reducing visibility

Tennessee's Comparative Fault Rules

Understanding Tennessee's comparative fault system is crucial for your case:

50% Rule: You can only recover damages if you're less than 50% at fault for the accident.

Damage Reduction: If you're partially at fault (but less than 50%), your compensation is reduced by your percentage of fault.

Insurance Tactics: Insurance companies will try to assign you 50% or more fault to avoid paying anything.

Examples:

30% your fault: You recover 70% of your damages
49% your fault: You recover 51% of your damages
50% your fault: You recover nothing

Types of Car Accident Injuries

Tennessee car accidents often result in serious injuries due to high speeds and rural crash locations:

Common injuries include:

Whiplash and neck injuries
Back and spinal cord injuries
Traumatic brain injuries
Broken bones and fractures
Internal organ damage
Cuts and lacerations
Psychological trauma and PTSD

Delayed symptoms to watch for:

Headaches that worsen over time
Neck and shoulder stiffness
Memory problems or confusion
Sleep disturbances
Mood changes or anxiety

Steps to Take After a Tennessee Car Accident

Immediate actions:

Check for injuries and call 911 if anyone is hurt
Move to safety if vehicles are drivable
Call police for accidents with injuries or significant damage
Exchange information with all drivers involved
Document the scene with photos and videos
Get witness contact information
Seek medical attention even for seemingly minor injuries

Within 24-48 hours:

File accident report with Tennessee Department of Safety
Contact your insurance company
Begin documenting your injuries and treatment
Consult with a car accident attorney

Remember: Tennessee's one-year statute of limitations means you must act quickly to protect your rights.

What Compensation Can You Recover?

Tennessee car accident victims may be entitled to:

Economic damages:

Medical expenses (current and future)
Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
Property damage to your vehicle
Transportation costs while your car is repaired
Out-of-pocket expenses related to the accident

Non-economic damages:

Pain and suffering
Emotional distress
Loss of enjoyment of life
Permanent disability or disfigurement
Loss of consortium (for spouses)

Punitive damages may be available in cases involving gross negligence or intentional conduct.

Dealing with Insurance Companies

Tennessee car accident claims often involve complex insurance issues:

Common challenges:

Low insurance coverage limits
High rates of uninsured/underinsured drivers
Insurance companies disputing fault
Delays in claim processing
Lowball settlement offers

Uninsured/Underinsured motorist coverage: While not required in Tennessee, UM/UIM coverage is highly recommended given the state's high rate of uninsured drivers (approximately 20%).

Why Legal Representation Matters

Tennessee car accident cases have unique challenges that make professional legal help essential:

Short statute of limitations: One year to file suit Complex fault determinations: 50% rule can eliminate recovery entirely Insurance company tactics: Trained adjusters work to minimize claims Rural accident complications: Limited emergency response and witnesses Severe injury calculations: Determining full value of long-term damages

An experienced Tennessee car accident attorney can:

Investigate the accident thoroughly
Gather crucial evidence before it disappears
Handle insurance company negotiations
Ensure proper fault allocation
Maximize your compensation
Meet all critical deadlines

Frequently Asked Questions About Tennessee Car Accidents

How long do I have to file a car accident claim in Tennessee?

Tennessee has a one-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims from car accidents. This is much shorter than most states, making it crucial to act quickly.

What if I was partially at fault for the accident?

Under Tennessee's modified comparative fault system, you can recover damages if you're less than 50% at fault. Your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

Do I need to report the accident to police?

Yes, Tennessee law requires reporting accidents involving injury, death, or property damage over $1,500. You must also file a report with the Tennessee Department of Safety if police don't respond.

What if the other driver doesn't have insurance?

If you have uninsured motorist coverage, it can help cover your damages. If not, you may still be able to pursue compensation from the at-fault driver's assets, though this can be challenging.

Let's Help You Move Forward

If you've been injured in a Tennessee car accident, don't face the insurance companies alone. Contact AskLitigation immediately for a free consultation. We'll protect your rights, handle the complex legal issues, and fight for the compensation you deserve while you focus on recovery.

Remember: Tennessee's one-year deadline means every day counts. Call today.

Protecting Your Rights After a Tennessee Car Accident