Whether the accident was a minor fender bender or a serious collision, knowing the right steps to take after a Chattanooga car accident is important to protect your health, safety and legal rights.
By following the right steps after a car accident and consulting with a knowledgeable attorney, you can confidently navigate your legal situation, focus on your recovery and increase your chances of receiving the highest compensation possible.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a car accident in Tennessee, it is essential to take the proper steps to protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve. Contact an experienced Chattanooga car accident lawyer at Massey & Associates, P.C., who can help you understand the legal procedures to maximize your compensation. We offer a free consultation to review your case and answer your questions. There are no upfront costs or fees unless we secure the compensation you need.
Request your FREE case review today: (423) 396-0720
1. Ensure Safety & Call 911
Immediately after a car accident in Chattanooga, prioritize your safety and the safety of other motorists by moving to a secure location if it is safe to do so and calling law enforcement to the scene.
Tennessee law requires drivers to report accidents involving injuries, fatalities, or property damage exceeding $1,500 to law enforcement. Notifying the police verifies the creation of an official police report, which serves as critical evidence for insurance claims or potential legal actions. Contacting law enforcement also guarantees that emergency medical services are dispatched if necessary, ensuring timely support in serious accidents.
2. Exchange Information & Document the Scene
Under Tennessee law, you are required to exchange personal information, insurance details and vehicle registration information with all parties involved in the accident.
Documenting the scene can be crucial for your case:
• Take detailed notes
• Photograph vehicle damage, visible injuries and relevant weather or road conditions
• Gather witness statements
This documentation can serve as vital evidence in resolving disputes over fault or the extent of damages.
3. Seek Medical Attention
Even if you feel fine after a car accident, seeking medical attention is crucial. Injuries such as whiplash, concussions or internal trauma may not present symptoms immediately and minor discomfort could worsen over time. Prompt medical evaluation can identify underlying injuries and ensure proper treatment. Medical records play a key role in supporting claims for compensation and help maximize your potential compensation for your damages.
4. Notify Your Insurance & Consult a Lawyer
Notify your insurance company about the accident promptly, as Tennessee operates under an “at-fault” system for car accidents. Meaning the “at-fault” driver is responsible for covering damages. Be aware that insurance companies will attempt to reduce payouts, potentially leaving you with less compensation than you deserve.
Consulting with a car accident lawyer can assist you in insurance negotiations to ensure that you have the highest chance of receiving the compensation you deserve for your injuries and losses.
5. Be Aware of the Statute of Limitations
In Tennessee, the statute of limitations for filing a car accident claim is also two years from the date of the accident. If you miss this deadline, you may affect your rights to pursue compensation for your injuries or damages. It is important to act promptly and consult a lawyer to guarantee that all necessary paperwork is filed within the legal timeframe and to protect your right to recover compensation.
6. Contact A Chattanooga Car Accident Lawyer
After a car accident in Tennessee, taking the necessary steps to protect your rights and ensure you receive fair compensation is essential. Our legal team at Massey & Associates, P.C. has a successful history of securing compensation for our clients. Reach out to us for a free consultation and let us help you navigate the legal complexities of your situation. We are committed to fighting for you to get you the compensation you deserve.
Experienced Lawyers. Proven Results: (423) 396-0720
Gary Massey, Jr., is a well-known courtroom advocate practicing law in Chattanooga, Tennessee. Gary is a native of Tennessee who began practicing law in 1998. He graduated from Cumberland School of Law where he was ranked in the top 3% of his class and was an editor of the Cumberland Law Review.
