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Nashville Car Accident Lawyer

If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident in Nashville, you need an experienced car accident lawyer on your side. At The Higgins Firm, our Nashville car accident attorneys have been fighting for the rights of crash victims for over a decade.

We understand the devastating impact a serious wreck can have on your life, and we’re here to help you navigate the complex legal process while you focus on recovery.

Tennessee Car Accident Laws and Liability

Tennessee follows a “fault” system when it comes to car accidents and liability. This means the driver who caused the crash (the at-fault party) is responsible for any resulting injuries and property damage. In order to recover compensation, you must prove the other driver was negligent.

Examples of negligent driving behaviors include:

  • Speeding
  • Distracted driving (texting, eating, etc.)
  • Driving under the influence of alcohol/drugs
  • Reckless driving
  • Running red lights or stop signs
  • Improper lane changes
  • Failure to yield right-of-way

Even if you were partially at-fault for the accident, you may still be entitled to compensation under Tennessee’s modified comparative negligence rule. As long as you were less than 50% responsible for the crash, you can recover damages. However, your total compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

For example, if you are found to be 20% at-fault and the total damages are $100,000, you would receive $80,000 in compensation.

It’s important to note Tennessee also has a statute of limitations for car accident claims. In most cases, you have one year from the date of the crash to file a personal injury lawsuit. If you miss this deadline, the court will likely dismiss your case.

Damages You Can Recover After a Car Accident

If you’ve been hurt in a crash, you may be entitled to compensation for your losses, also known as damages. Damages are typically divided into two categories: economic and non-economic.

Economic (or special) damages have a clear monetary value and may include:

  • Medical bills (current and future)
  • Lost wages
  • Loss of earning capacity
  • Property damage
  • Out-of-pocket expenses

Non-economic (or general) damages are more subjective and harder to quantify. They may include:

  • Pain and suffering
  • Emotional distress
  • Loss of enjoyment of life
  • Loss of consortium

In rare cases involving egregious negligence or intentional misconduct, you may also be awarded punitive damages. These are meant to punish the at-fault party and deter similar behavior in the future.

Insurance companies often try to downplay the extent of your damages to minimize their payout. Our Nashville car accident lawyers know how to properly value your claim and fight for the full and fair compensation you deserve.

Common Car Accident Injuries

Car accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, from minor cuts and bruises to life-threatening conditions. Some of the most common car accident injuries we see include:

  • Whiplash and neck injuries
  • Back injuries (herniated discs, spinal cord damage)
  • Traumatic brain injuries (concussions, skull fractures)
  • Broken bones
  • Burns
  • Internal organ damage
  • Soft tissue injuries
  • Lacerations
  • Disfigurement or scarring
  • Emotional trauma (PTSD, anxiety, depression)

No matter how minor your injuries may seem initially, it’s crucial to seek medical attention as soon as possible after a crash. Some injuries, like whiplash, may not present symptoms until days or weeks later. Failure to get prompt treatment could not only jeopardize your health but also hurt your chances of recovering full compensation.

What to Do After a Car Accident in Nashville

The aftermath of a car accident can be overwhelming, but the steps you take can have a significant impact on your health and any future legal claims. If you’ve been in a crash:

  1. Check for injuries and call 911. Safety should be your top priority. If anyone is hurt, request an ambulance. Wait for the police to arrive so an official accident report can be filed.
  2. Exchange information with the other driver(s). Get their name, contact info, insurance details, license plate number, and vehicle make/model.
  3. Document the accident scene. Take photos of the damage to all vehicles, any visible injuries, and the surrounding area. Make note of the exact location, time, date, road conditions, and weather.
  4. Talk to witnesses. If anyone saw the crash occur, ask for their name and contact information. Their testimony could be crucial for your case.
  5. Seek medical attention. Even if you feel fine, get checked out by a doctor. Some injuries may have delayed symptoms. Be sure to document all treatment.
  6. Notify your insurance company. Most policies require prompt reporting of accidents. Give them the basic facts, but avoid admitting fault or providing a recorded statement.
  7. Call an experienced car accident attorney. Before accepting any settlement offers from the insurance company, discuss your case with a knowledgeable lawyer who can advise you of your rights and options.

Remember, insurance adjusters are not on your side. Their goal is to pay out as little as possible on claims. Let your attorney handle all communication and negotiation with the insurance companies.

How Our Nashville Car Accident Attorneys Can Help

When you work with The Higgins Firm, you can have peace of mind knowing your case is in good hands. Our Nashville car accident lawyers have recovered millions of dollars on behalf of crash victims throughout Tennessee. We’ll put our experience and resources to work for you, fighting tirelessly to secure the compensation you need to move forward.

Some ways we can help with your case include:

  • Conducting a thorough, independent investigation into the accident
  • Gathering crucial evidence to build a strong claim
  • Identifying all potential sources of compensation
  • Handling all communication and negotiation with the insurance companies
  • Consulting with experts to strengthen your case (accident reconstructionists, medical professionals, life care planners, etc.)
  • Calculating the full extent of your damages
  • Preparing your case for trial if a fair settlement can’t be reached

Most importantly, we treat our clients like family. We know this is likely one of the most difficult times of your life, and we’re here to provide compassionate support and guidance every step of the way.

Contact a Nashville Car Accident Lawyer Today

After a serious car accident, don’t try to handle things on your own. Let the dedicated legal team at The Higgins Firm fight for you. We offer free initial consultations and work on a contingency fee basis, which means you won’t owe us anything unless we recover compensation for you.

Contact us today or fill out our online form to schedule your free case review with a Nashville car accident attorney. We’re here to help you get your life back on track.

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FAQs

You Have Questions. We Have Answers.

What Should I Do After a Car Accident in Nashville?

After a car accident in Nashville, prioritize your safety and health by checking for injuries and seeking medical attention. Notify law enforcement to file an accident report.

Gather evidence at the scene, such as photos, witness information, and insurance details. Contact a Nashville car accident lawyer to protect your rights and explore your legal options.

 

How Long Do I Have to File a Car Accident Claim in Tennessee?

In Tennessee, you typically have one year from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. This deadline, known as the statute of limitations, is strict. Missing it could prevent you from recovering compensation. Contact a car accident lawyer in Nashville as soon as possible to ensure your claim is filed on time.

How Is Fault Determined in a Nashville Car Accident?

Tennessee follows a modified comparative negligence rule, meaning fault is assigned based on each party’s percentage of responsibility. You can recover damages if you’re less than 50% at fault. Evidence such as police reports, witness statements, and accident reconstruction may be used to determine fault. A skilled Nashville car accident attorney can help build a strong case.

 

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