Chattanooga Car Accident Attorneys

Representing Car Accident Victims in Tennessee, Georgia, and Alabama

Even with modern safety features, car wrecks remain a pervasive problem that lead to preventable catastrophic injuries (including brain injuries and spinal cord injuries) and even wrongful death. The aftermath of a crash can be stressful and life-altering, even if your injuries are relatively minor. Getting quality legal assistance is essential, especially if the accident was not your fault.

At The Hamilton Firm, we know what you are going through, and we are ready to step in to help. Our seasoned Chattanooga car accident lawyers have nearly a century of collective legal experience and are prepared to represent clients in Tennessee, Georgia, and Alabama.

Our advocacy is aggressive yet ethical, and we place a heightened emphasis on providing personal attention and service to each of our clients. When you hire our team, we will act fast but be meticulous in our effort to gather and preserve crucial records, data, and evidence. Maximizing what you recover is our main priority, and our track record speaks for itself: Our firm has already secured over $100 million in settlements and judgments.

You can count on us to go the distance for you when you have been injured in any type of car accident. Call (423) 454-3288 or contact us online to schedule a free initial consultation if you or someone you love has suffered injuries in a wreck.

Car Accident Laws in Tennessee
What Types of Compensation Can I Recover for Car Accident Injuries?
What to Do If You Are Involved in a Car Accident in Chattanooga
What Does a Car Accident Lawyer Do?
Local Emergency Services and Support Organizations in Chattanooga, TN
FAQs About Car Accidents in Tennessee
Common Types of Car Accidents
Common Causes of Car Accidents

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Trucking and car accidents can take a toll on your life. Our attorneys are here to help you get the compensation you deserve.

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Car Accident Laws in Tennessee

Tennessee follows a "fault" system regarding car accidents, meaning the person responsible for causing the accident is typically liable for resulting damages. Those injured can seek compensation from the at-fault driver's insurance company or file a lawsuit against them.

To succeed in a car accident claim in Tennessee, several key elements need to be established:

Duty of Care: You must prove that the other party owed you a duty of care. In the context of driving, all motorists owe a duty to operate their vehicles in a reasonably safe manner and follow traffic laws.
Breach of Duty: You need to demonstrate that the other party breached their duty of care. This could involve actions like speeding, reckless driving, running a red light, or any behavior that violates traffic laws or safety norms.
Causation: You must establish that the other party's breach of duty was the direct cause of the accident and your injuries. It involves proving that the accident wouldn't have occurred if the other party hadn't acted negligently.
Damages: You need to show the actual damages you suffered as a result of the accident. This includes medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, pain and suffering, and any other losses directly attributable to the accident.

Remember, Tennessee has a modified comparative fault rule. This means that if you're partially at fault for the accident, your compensation may be reduced in proportion to your degree of fault. If you're found to be 50% or more at fault, you might not be eligible for any compensation for damages.

What Types of Compensation Can I Recover for Car Accident Injuries?

Injuries sustained in a car accident can have devastating physical, emotional, and financial consequences for the victim and their family. A car accident lawsuit is intended to restore the financial position you were in before the accident by appropriately compensating you for both economic and non-economic damages.

We will fight to get you full and fair compensation for all losses, including:

Past, current, and future medical expenses
Long-term impairment and disability
Pain and suffering
Scarring and disfigurement
Property damage
Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
Disruption of your life and livelihood

What to Do If You Are Involved in a Car Accident in Chattanooga

It is easy to become overwhelmed in the minutes after a car accident. You must nevertheless make every effort to keep a level head and protect your ability to recover compensation. That requires completing certain actions while avoiding common mistakes.

After a car accident, you should:

Call the police and file an accident report. This is not optional in Tennessee, Georgia, and Alabama. You must report the accident to the police, which also benefits you: The accident report they create will also likely serve as a key piece of evidence in your personal injury claim.
Seek medical attention and follow your doctor’s instructions. Do not be afraid to take an ambulance from the crash site if your injuries require immediate attention. Otherwise, schedule an appointment as soon as possible, and do not deviate from what your healthcare provider recommends. Doing so may give the defense an opportunity to argue your injuries are not as significant as you claim, weakening your case.
Document the wreck. If possible, take pictures of the positioning of your car and any damage to it.
Get in touch with our Chattanooga car accident attorneys. If you were hurt in the accident and believe you were not at fault, it is in your best interest to seek legal representation right away. We can evaluate your case and review your legal options.
Contact your insurance company. Most car insurance policies require you to promptly report an accident to your insurance provider.

Do not:

Admit fault. Never say anything that suggests you even share a portion of the blame. Comments like “I’m sorry” can imply fault, so be mindful.
Be confrontational with the other driver. While you will need the other driver’s name, phone number, address, license information, and insurance information, try to keep unnecessary conversation to a minimum. Getting into a verbal fight with the other driver is not productive and could harm your case.
Sign anything from an insurance carrier. Do not sign any document without first consulting a legal professional.
Speak to, engage with, or provide information to any unsolicited attorneys who approach you without you having contacted them first. They may not be looking out for your best interest.
Speak to, engage with, or provide information to any accident investigators or personnel from the other driver’s insurance company. Instead, direct them to our team at The Hamilton Firm.

Injured in a car accident in Tennessee, Georgia, or Alabama? Do not wait to call (423) 454-3288 or contact us online.

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They were able to help me, a 60-year-old client who had never been injured, navigate all my questions and anxiety with insurance to a stress-free solution.

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"Exceptional knowledge and client service."
The team at The Hamilton Firm LLC is exceptional to work with. Their knowledge about cases combined with superior client service is above and beyond most firms.

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"Empathic and understanding service"
My experience with The Hamilton Firm LLC could not have been better. They were very empathic and understanding, always keeping me updated. Even after relocating 3000 miles away, everything went smoothly. Five stars all the way for their team!

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"Compassionate and tough attorney"
The Hamilton Firm LLC is amazing, compassionate with clients and tough with opposing counsel. They recently co-counseled my case and were thorough in finding details to settle favorably. I'm very touched by the genuine kindness with which they treated me and my husband.

- Christine Raines
"Compassionate and tough."
The Hamilton Firm LLC is amazing and compassionate with clients while being tough with opposing counsel. They were thorough in finding details to help settle my case favorably and treated us with genuine kindness. I think highly of this business.

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The Hamilton Firm LLC is amazing, showing genuine kindness and tough advocacy. They were thorough in finding details to help settle my case favorably, and treated us with compassion. I will always think highly of this firm.

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What Does a Car Accident Lawyer Do?

Our car accident lawyers specialize in handling cases related to automobile accidents. Our primary role is to provide legal representation and advocate for individuals who have been injured or suffered damages in car accidents. Some of the key tasks and responsibilities of our lawyers include:

Legal advice and guidance: Our lawyers help clients understand their rights and legal options after a car accident. They provide expert advice on how to navigate the legal process and make informed decisions.
Investigation and gathering evidence: Our team investigates the accident by gathering evidence such as police reports, witness statements, photographs, and medical records. We then analyze the evidence to determine liability and build a strong case.
Evaluation of damages: Our car accident lawyers assess the extent of damages suffered by our clients, including medical expenses, property damage, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other losses. We then use this information to determine the appropriate compensation to seek.
Negotiations with insurance companies: Our lawyers handle all communication and negotiations with insurance companies on behalf of our clients. We work to secure a fair settlement that covers the full extent of our clients' damages.
Legal representation in court: If a fair settlement cannot be reached through negotiations, our team will file a lawsuit and represent our client in court. We present the case, cross-examine witnesses, and argue for our client's rights and entitlement to compensation.
Advocacy for maximum compensation: Our car accident lawyers work tirelessly to ensure our clients receive the maximum compensation they deserve. We use our legal expertise to build a strong case, present compelling arguments, and seek full and fair compensation for our clients' losses.
Case management and documentation: Our team handles all aspects of the legal process, including managing deadlines, filing necessary paperwork, and keeping track of important documentation related to the case.

Overall, our car accident attorneys are dedicated to protecting our clients' rights, advocating for their best interests, and helping them navigate the complex legal system to achieve the best possible outcome for their car accident claims.

Local Emergency Services and Support Organizations in Chattanooga, TN

Emergency Services

Chattanooga Police Department

In the event of a car accident, the Chattanooga Police Department is the primary law enforcement agency to contact. They will respond to the scene, investigate the accident, and provide necessary assistance.

Non-Emergency Phone Number: (423) 698-2525
Emergency: Dial 911
Address: 3410 Amnicola Hwy, Chattanooga, TN 37406
Website: Chattanooga Police Department

Chattanooga Fire Department

For accidents involving fires or requiring rescue operations, the Chattanooga Fire Department provides prompt and professional services.

Emergency: Dial 911
Address: 910 Wisdom St, Chattanooga, TN 37406
Website: Chattanooga Fire Department

Hamilton County Emergency Medical Services (EMS)

Hamilton County EMS offers critical medical care and transportation to local hospitals for accident victims.

Emergency: Dial 911
Non-Emergency Phone Number: (423) 209-6900
Address: 317 Oak Street, Chattanooga, TN 37403
Website: Hamilton County EMS

Local Hospitals

Erlanger Health System

Erlanger Health System is a leading healthcare provider in Chattanooga, offering comprehensive emergency and trauma care for car accident victims.

Address: 975 E 3rd St, Chattanooga, TN 37403
Phone Number: (423) 778-7000
Website: Erlanger Health System

CHI Memorial Hospital

CHI Memorial Hospital provides excellent emergency services and medical care for those injured in car accidents.

Address: 2525 de Sales Ave, Chattanooga, TN 37404
Phone Number: (423) 495-2525
Website: CHI Memorial Hospital

Support Organizations

Partnership for Families, Children and Adults

This organization offers various support services, including counseling and advocacy, for individuals and families affected by car accidents.

Phone Number: (423) 755-2822
Address: 1800 McCallie Ave, Chattanooga, TN 37404
Website: Partnership for Families, Children and Adults

Chattanooga Area Mental Health Services

Providing mental health support and counseling for those dealing with trauma and stress after a car accident.

Phone Number: (423) 697-5950
Address: 501 W 12th St, Chattanooga, TN 37402
Website: Chattanooga Area Mental Health Services

Tennessee Victim Support Line

For immediate support and resources, victims of car accidents can contact the Tennessee Victim Support Line.

Phone Number: 1-800-877-8010
Website: Tennessee Victim Support Line

Community Resources

Scenic City Equestrian Center

Offers therapeutic horseback riding programs that can be beneficial for physical and emotional rehabilitation post-accident.

Phone Number: (423) 488-3993
Address: 1940 Jenkins Rd, Chattanooga, TN 37421
Website: Scenic City Equestrian Center

By knowing where to turn for help and support, you can focus on your recovery after a car accident. These local resources in Chattanooga are here to assist you every step of the way.

Experienced Personal Injury Attorneys Can Make a Difference

Whether an accident is caused by the driver of another car, truck, or commercial vehicle, our team at The Hamilton Firm has a proven history of obtaining exceptional results for our clients. We are prepared to vigorously fight on your behalf and will always seek the best possible result, and we are not afraid to go to court if a settlement cannot be reached.

Our firm never charges for a consultation. We take every case on a contingency basis, which means there is no up-front fee for consultations, follow-ups, investigations, or even hospital visits. You will only pay legal fees if we facilitate a settlement or obtain a recovery verdict. If your injuries make it impractical for you to come to our office, we will visit you at home or in the hospital.

You will speak to one of our Chattanooga car accident attorneys, not a paralegal or some other staff member. We want to personally hear your story and provide tailored legal advice.

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FAQs About Car Accidents in Tennessee

What are the reporting requirements for car accidents in Tennessee?

In Tennessee, you must report any car accident that results in injury, death, or property damage exceeding $1,500 to the police immediately. If law enforcement is not called to the scene, you are required to file a report with the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security within 20 days. Failing to report an accident can lead to fines and other legal consequences. Additionally, promptly notifying your insurance company is essential for processing claims and ensuring coverage.

What types of compensation can I seek after a car accident in Tennessee?

Victims of car accidents in Tennessee can seek various types of compensation, including medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, pain and suffering, and, in some cases, punitive damages. Medical expenses cover costs for hospital stays, surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing medical care. Lost wages compensate for the income you lost due to the accident, while property damage covers the repair or replacement of your vehicle. Pain and suffering address the physical and emotional distress caused by the accident.

What is the statute of limitations for filing a car accident lawsuit in Tennessee?

In Tennessee, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit related to a car accident is generally one year from the date of the accident. For property damage claims, the statute of limitations is three years. It is critical to file your lawsuit within these time frames, as failing to do so can result in the court dismissing your case, leaving you without legal recourse for your injuries or damages. Consulting with an attorney promptly after your accident can help ensure you meet all legal deadlines.

What if the other driver in my Tennessee car accident is uninsured?

If the other driver involved in your Tennessee car accident is uninsured or underinsured, you may still have options for recovering compensation. Your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage can help cover your medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. Additionally, you may explore legal options to pursue compensation from the at-fault driver personally, although this can be challenging if they lack insurance or sufficient assets. Consulting with a knowledgeable attorney can help you understand your rights and options in such situations.

Do I need a lawyer for a car accident claim in Tennessee?

While you are not required to hire a lawyer to file a car accident claim in Tennessee, having legal representation can be highly beneficial. An experienced attorney can help you navigate the complexities of insurance claims, ensure you meet all legal deadlines, gather and present evidence effectively, and negotiate for fair compensation. If your case goes to court, a lawyer can represent your interests and improve your chances of a favorable outcome. Given the potential complexities and high stakes, consulting with a lawyer is often a wise decision.

Common Types of Car Accidents

A car accident occurs when a vehicle collides with another vehicle, pedestrian, animal, object, or obstruction on the road. These accidents can result in varying degrees of damage to property, injuries, or fatalities.

Common types of car accidents include:

Rear-end collision: This happens when one vehicle strikes the back of another vehicle, often due to sudden braking or tailgating.
Head-on collision: It occurs when the front ends of two vehicles collide, often resulting in severe injuries or fatalities due to the impact force.
Side-impact (T-bone) collision: This occurs when the front of one vehicle crashes into the side of another vehicle, typically at intersections, and can cause serious injuries due to the vulnerable positioning of passengers.
Single-car accidents: These involve only one vehicle and can include running off the road, hitting an obstacle, or losing control due to various factors like weather, road conditions, or driver error.
Multi-vehicle pileup: This involves three or more vehicles and often occurs on highways or freeways, with one initial collision leading to a chain reaction involving multiple vehicles.
Rollover accidents: These happen when a vehicle tips onto its side or roof, often occurring at high speeds or due to a sudden swerve.

Common Causes of Car Accidents

Car accidents can result from various factors, including human error, environmental conditions, and technical failures. Some common causes include:

Distracted driving: This includes activities like texting, talking on the phone, eating, or adjusting the radio while driving, diverting attention from the road.
Speeding: Driving above the designated speed limit reduces reaction time and increases the severity of accidents.
Impaired driving: Operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or certain medications can impair judgment, coordination, and reaction time.
Reckless driving: This encompasses behaviors like aggressive driving, tailgating, frequent lane changes without signaling, and ignoring traffic signals.
Weather conditions: Rain, snow, fog, or ice on the roads can reduce traction, visibility, and control, leading to accidents.
Poor road conditions: Potholes, uneven surfaces, lack of signage, or inadequate lighting can contribute to accidents.
Fatigue: Driving while tired or drowsy can impair reaction times and decision-making abilities.
Mechanical failures: Brake failure, tire blowouts, or other technical issues with the vehicle can cause accidents.
Inexperienced drivers: Lack of experience, especially among new drivers, can lead to errors in judgment and handling of unexpected situations on the road.
Failure to follow traffic laws: Running red lights, ignoring stop signs, improper lane changes, and failure to yield right of way contribute significantly to accidents.

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Who Is at Fault for a Car Accident in Chattanooga?

The potential of multiple defendants means you may be forced to deal with several defense attorneys and insurance companies. All possible defendants must be investigated and identified. Accident reconstruction and other experts may need to be retained.

Various layers of insurance coverage may be available and must be explored, including liability, uninsured or underinsured motorists, as well as umbrella or excess coverage.

If you have been in an accident that was not your fault, it is essential that your legal representation has the experience, knowledge, and skills required to stand up against the extensive resources of one or more defendants.

When you have one of our Chattanooga car accident lawyers on your side, you can rest assured you are represented by an advocate familiar with how to strategically navigate cases of all complexities. We will work tirelessly on your behalf to explore and uncover every aspect of liability and potential recovery.

How Long Do I Have to File a Car Accident Lawsuit?

The amount of time you have to bring a personal injury claim against a negligent driver (or any other liable party) will depend on where the accident took place. Each state enforces its own statute of limitations.

In Tennessee, you only have one year from the date of the car accident to file a lawsuit, meaning you must act extremely quickly. In Georgia and Alabama, you have two years from the date of a wreck to take legal action.

If a car accident kills someone in Tennessee, the victim’s closest surviving relative has only one year from the date of their passing to file a wrongful death lawsuit. When a car accident leads to fatal injuries in Georgia or Alabama, qualifying parties have two years from the date of the victim’s passing to bring a wrongful death claim.