Tennessee Car Accident Claims Process
Request Free ConsultationThe Tennessee car accident claims process can feel confusing when you are already dealing with injuries, medical bills, and insurance company calls. Knowing the basic steps can help you protect your rights and build a stronger case from the start. A auto accident attorney in Nashville, TN with Selvidge Injury Law can guide you through each phase of the process and fight for the full recovery you deserve.
First Steps to Take After a Car Accident in Tennessee
The moments right after a car crash can feel like a blur, but what you do next matters. Taking the right steps early can help protect your health, your case, and your chance to recover what you need later. Tennessee Code § 55-10-106 says you have a duty to report accidents, but there are a few other important things you will want to keep in mind too. Here are a few steps you should try to take as soon as you can:
- Call the police and report the accident immediately
- Exchange insurance and contact information with other drivers
- Document the scene with photos and witness statements
- Seek emergency medical care even if injuries seem minor
- Notify your own insurance company as soon as possible
- Request a copy of the police accident report
- Save all medical bills, repair estimates, and related receipts
- Consult with a lawyer before discussing fault with insurers
- Be cautious about giving recorded statements to insurance companies
Taking simple steps like snapping a few photos, getting checked out by a doctor, and keeping track of your paperwork can make a huge difference later on. It is also critically important to find out whether the other driver had insurance, especially if you end up needing to make an uninsured motorist claim. Getting organized early gives you a much better chance of protecting your health, your finances, and your future.
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Important Stages of the Car Accident Claims Process in Tennessee
After a car accident, the claims process can feel a little overwhelming at first. Knowing what to expect can help you stay calm and take the right steps along the way. Under Tennessee Code § 28-3-104, there is a strict one-year time limit for filing most personal injury lawsuits, but there are several important phases your claim will usually go through before that becomes necessary.
Filing Insurance Claims and Gathering Evidence
The first stage after a crash is all about putting together the evidence. This means getting a copy of the accident report, saving your medical bills, and writing down what witnesses saw. The sooner you gather this information, the easier it becomes to tell your side of the story and push back if an insurance company tries to downplay your injuries.
Settlement Negotiations With Insurance Adjusters
Once your claim is filed, settlement talks usually start pretty quickly. Insurance adjusters might seem friendly, but they are trained to save their companies money, not to look out for you. Working with a personal injury attorney in Nashville can help you stay on track during negotiations and push for a settlement that truly reflects the full impact the crash had on your life.
Filing a Lawsuit if Settlement Negotiations Fail
Sometimes settlement talks break down, and that is when it becomes time to file a lawsuit. As long as you file within Tennessee’s statute of limitations, you can keep fighting for the compensation you deserve. Filing a lawsuit does not always mean going to trial, but it shows insurers that you are serious and willing to take that next step if needed.
Meet With a Nashville Car Accident Law Firm to Start Your Claim Today
Working with a car accident attorney in Nashville from Selvidge Injury Law can give you the confidence to move through the claims process step by step. Our team provides personal support and aggressive advocacy so you never feel like you are fighting alone. Reach out to us today to schedule your free consultation or contact us through our website to get started.