If you are a car accident victim, you may not know how to pay for all of your bills on top of vehicle repairs and other losses — especially if you lose income from missing work. If you have been hurt in a collision, you have the option to pursue a personal injury claim against all at-fault drivers with the help of a car accident lawyer in Nashville. Our Nashville car accident lawyers have spent over 23 years fighting to ensure that every one of our clients receives the compensation they deserve.
We fight for you, it’s that simple. Don’t let a car accident injury negatively affect your life. Get the medical attention you need and the compensation you deserve. Our attorneys will deal with the insurance companies while you heal. Steinger, Greene & Feiner’s experienced attorneys will work with you and help you maximize the value of your claim. In fact, we have helped personal injury victims in the Southeast win over $1 billion for their accident claims.
Car Accident Statistics in Nashville
Nashville remains a bustling hub of activity, with busy streets filled with both locals and tourists. From rushing to grab a spot at Prince’s Hot Chicken to navigating the heavy traffic around Broadway, driving in Music City is part of daily life. But all that time on the road leads to more auto accidents, and unfortunately, Nashville has seen an increase in crashes over recent years.
According to the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security, car accidents in Nashville continued to rise, with over 38,000 crashes reported in 2022, marking a significant increase from previous years. This upward trend reflects the growing congestion and traffic throughout the city. For comparison, accidents have risen by more than 12% since 2018, outpacing population growth and making Nashville one of the most accident-prone areas in Tennessee.
Busy intersections and highways like I-40 and Charlotte Pike see some of the highest crash rates, with distracted driving, speeding, and heavy traffic being the main contributors. With Nashville’s ongoing development and population increase, car crashes in 2023 are expected to continue climbing, emphasizing the importance of staying vigilant and following road safety rules.
If you’ve been involved in an accident, understanding these statistics helps illustrate just how common and severe crashes can be in Nashville, and why working with an experienced attorney is crucial in protecting your rights and securing the compensation you deserve.
What Are the Common Causes of Car Accidents in Nashville?
Motor vehicle accidents in Nashville have increased, with over 36,000 crashes reported in 2022, according to the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security. If you’ve been injured, it’s essential to know the common causes of these crashes to better understand your claim.
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving accounts for more than 20% of crashes in Tennessee. Texting, using GPS, or other distractions can easily lead to rear-end collisions or intersection accidents.
Speeding
Speeding is responsible for nearly 30% of all fatal crashes in the state. In high-traffic areas like I-65 and Broadway, speeding reduces reaction time and increases the severity of accidents.
Drunk Driving
Alcohol-impaired driving was involved in over 20% of fatal accidents in Tennessee, according to the NHTSA. These crashes often occur at night or on weekends and can result in severe injuries.
Reckless Driving
Aggressive behaviors like tailgating and weaving through traffic are common on congested roads, such as Charlotte Pike, leading to a higher risk of multi-car accidents.
Poor Road Conditions and Weather
Tennessee’s poorly maintained roads, with over 40% in poor condition according to the American Society of Civil Engineers, combined with rainy weather, often lead to accidents caused by hydroplaning or losing control.
Intersection Accidents
Busy intersections, like those at Charlotte Pike and White Bridge Road, are hotspots for crashes due to failure to yield or running red lights.
Common Injuries
Auto accidents can result in a wide range of serious injuries. Whether your injuries are minor or life-altering, it’s crucial to have an experienced legal team working to ensure all your medical needs are covered. If you have been injured in a car wreck in or around the city, you can trust our attorneys to help you get compensation for injuries such as:
- Whiplash
- Herniated discs
- Broken or fractured bones
- Brain injuries
- Internal bleeding
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
No matter the nature of your injury, we are dedicated to ensuring that your claim reflects the full extent of your suffering and losses, allowing you to focus on your recovery while we handle the legal aspects.
Compensation for Car Accident Damages in Nashville
At Steinger, Greene & Feiner, our Nashville car wreck lawyers are committed to helping accident victims obtain the compensation they deserve for both the immediate and long-term effects of your injuries. Tennessee law allows you to hold the at-fault driver responsible, and the compensation you receive can cover a wide range of damages:
- Medical Expenses: Compensation for your medical bills includes hospital visits, surgeries, physical therapy, medications, and any ongoing treatment related to the accident. Future medical costs should also be considered if your injuries require long-term care.
- Lost Wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, you can recover the income you’ve lost due to missed work. In cases of permanent injury, you may also claim lost earning potential if your ability to work has been impacted.
- Property Damage: The cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle can be included in your compensation claim. This ensures you’re not left covering out-of-pocket expenses for damage caused by the accident.
- Pain and Suffering: Non-economic damages like pain and suffering are meant to compensate you for the physical and emotional toll of the accident. This includes compensation for any mental anguish, anxiety, or depression caused by the event.
- Loss of Enjoyment of Life: If your injuries affect your ability to enjoy activities you once loved—whether it’s hobbies, family outings, or even daily routines—this can also be factored into your claim.
Steinger, Greene & Feiner’s experienced attorneys will work with you and help you maximize the value of your claim. In fact, we have helped personal injury victims in the Southeast win over $1 billion for their accident claims.
Our goal is to help you recover financially so you can focus on healing without the added worry of covering expenses related to your case. Learn about your legal options for pursuing compensation after a MV accident during a free case review with one of our Nashville auto accident attorneys. We’ll tell you the best strategies you may have available, and we can potentially start preparing your case that day. Call us at (615) 590-3106 or contact us online to schedule your free case evaluation now.
Understanding Comparative Negligence in Tennessee
Tennessee follows a comparative negligence rule, meaning you can still recover compensation even if you were partially at fault for the accident. However, your total compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you’re found to be 20% responsible for the accident, your settlement will be reduced by 20%. You cannot recover damages if you’re found to be 50% or more at fault.
Laws in Tennessee
After a motor vehicle accident in Nashville, understanding the legal framework can make a significant difference in how you handle your claim and protect your rights. Tennessee’s laws outline specific rules for seeking compensation and determining fault, and knowing these can help you navigate the process more effectively.
At-Fault System
Tennessee’s at-fault insurance system allows you to seek compensation from the driver responsible for your crash. You can file a claim with their insurance for damages like medical bills and property repairs. If their insurance doesn’t cover all your losses, you can file a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault driver.
Statute of Limitations
You have one year from the accident date to file a personal injury claim in Tennessee. Failing to file within this time means losing your right to seek compensation.
Minimum Insurance Requirements
Tennessee requires drivers to have a minimum of $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $15,000 for property damage. If the at-fault driver’s insurance is insufficient, you can use your uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, if available, to cover the remaining costs.
Working with a skilled attorney ensures you navigate these laws effectively and secure fair compensation for your losses.
What to Do After a Car Accident in Nashville
After a car crash in Nashville, the steps you take immediately afterward can significantly impact your case and your ability to recover compensation. Here’s what you should do:
- Call Emergency Responders: As soon as the accident happens, contact emergency services. Wait for the police to arrive and give a statement about what happened. Ensure that the accident is officially documented.
- Collect Evidence: While waiting, gather as much evidence as possible. Take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and damage to all vehicles involved. Make sure to note the other driver’s license and plate number. If there are witnesses, ask for their contact details and see if they are willing to provide a recorded statement.
- Seek Medical Attention: If you are seriously injured, minimize movement and wait for medical help. Even if your injuries seem minor, it’s essential to get checked by a doctor right away. Ensure that all of your symptoms are properly documented in your medical records and keep copies of all bills and treatment plans.
- Follow Doctor’s Orders: Strictly follow any medical advice and avoid activities that could worsen your condition. This includes resting and avoiding any strenuous activity, such as work or errands, until cleared by your doctor.
- Limit Communication: Avoid discussing the accident with acquaintances or posting about it on social media. When speaking with insurance companies, only provide basic information like your contact details and what’s found in the police report. Never agree to a recorded statement or discuss details about your injuries without legal counsel.
- Avoid Quick Settlements: Don’t agree to any settlement offers from the insurance company until you fully understand the extent of your injuries and losses. Settling too early can leave you undercompensated.
- Consult a Car Accident Attorney: Appoint an attorney to handle your case. They will advise you on your legal rights, help gather evidence, and negotiate with the insurance companies on your behalf. Having legal representation ensures you get the compensation you deserve, and your attorney can build a strong case for you by researching similar cases and presenting a solid argument in court, if necessary.
By following these steps, you’ll be better positioned to protect your health, strengthen your claim, and secure the compensation you need to move forward.
How to Choose the Right Nashville Car Accident Lawyer
Not every attorney has the skills, experience, or proven track record to handle your case. Always seek out an attorney with a reputation for winning cases. They should also have won awards for outstanding service and be recognized among their peers. The ideal personal injury law firmideal personal will make it a point to work closely with injured clients, advising them on the best places to seek medical care while reducing the burden of filling out paperwork. They keep you informed of all actions in your case and provide advice for the best steps to take next.
Steinger, Greene & Feiner has an outstanding reputation and a proven track record of winning case results. Past case results include:
- $11.5 Million Car Accident Settlement
- $5.9 Million Car Accident Verdict for a Victim with nerve damage
- $4.8 Million Car Accident Settlement for a victim hurt by a negligent commercial vehicle driver
- $700,000 Car Accident Verdict for a victim accused by Insurers of having pre-existing Conditions
- $610,000 Car Accident Settlement for a victim who required spinal surgery
Work with a Car Accident Attorney in Nashville Who Will Work Hard for You
Steinger, Greene & Feiner puts in the leg work for your case so that you can focus on recovering. We exhaustively research your expenses in order to document every penny the accident cost you. We are willing to go to the scene of the accident to find evidence that you were not at fault. We negotiate aggressively with insurers, so you don’t have to worry about the tricks they use to lower settlement values or deny claims. Our attorneys are waiting for your call. If you have been hurt, get in touch with us at (615) 590-3106 today or contact us online to schedule a free case evaluation. You can also visit our offices at 3102 West End Ave, Suite 1050, Nashville, TN 37203.
Frequently Asked Questions
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