Over 200,000 crashes and car accidents are reported in Tennessee every year. While some of these auto accidents are minor bumps, others can have serious consequences. You also have limited time to file an injury lawsuit in Tennessee against the at-fault driver compared to many other states. Tennessee is also a modified comparative negligence state. If you had a role in causing the accident, your eventual settlement would be much lower. Consider talking to an attorney immediately after the accident to get advice and help with your legal issue. Here are some relevant aspects worth knowing.
Establishing fault and liability
Crashes, collisions, and car accidents are often complicated. If multiple vehicles, drivers, motorcycles, and pedestrians are involved, filing an injury lawsuit can be hard. It would be best if you got an attorney, so that they can investigate the case. They can guide you in gathering evidence and details to bolster your case. If needed, your lawyer may even go for accident reconstruction to find fault and liability.
When you have a minor share in fault
If your fault in the car accident is less than 50%, you can still file an injury claim/lawsuit in Tennessee and get compensation for your damages. Insurance companies, however, may not play fair. The claims adjuster of the at-fault driver’s insurance company will try to shift the blame so that you agree to any settlement offered. If you have a lawyer, they will negotiate on your behalf for fair compensation.
Because time is limited
The statute of limitations in Tennessee allows one year to file an injury lawsuit from the car accident date. If the accident caused someone’s death, the deceased’s family has one year to file a lawsuit for wrongful death, with the clock ticking from the day of death. If you are suing for property damage, the deadline is three years. The time in Tennessee is limited compared to other states, and having legal assistance can make the compensation battle easier.
Legal representation is easy to afford
Most car accident law firms in Tennessee work on a contingency fee. This means that the lawyer only charges a fee if they win. The fee is typically a percentage of the final settlement, not exceeding 40%. Meeting a personal injury lawyer doesn’t have to cost anything, and you can expect to get an overview of fault, liability, and expected settlement.
Call an attorney soon after your car accident in Tennessee.
