What Tennessee’s Personal Injury Laws Say About Pedestrian Hit-and-Run Accidents

Tennessee’s personal injury laws are crucial for understanding the rights and protections available to individuals involved in pedestrian hit-and-run accidents. Such unfortunate incidents can leave victims with serious injuries, steep medical bills, and emotional distress. Knowing the legal framework can help victims navigate the aftermath more effectively.

In Tennessee, when a pedestrian is struck by a vehicle, the driver is legally obligated to stop and provide assistance, including exchanging insurance information. Failing to comply with this requirement constitutes a hit-and-run, which is punishable by law. The severity of penalties for a hit-and-run in Tennessee often hinges on the injuries sustained by the pedestrian and the driver's actions.

Victims of hit-and-run accidents in Tennessee have several avenues for recourse. If the at-fault driver can be identified, victims can pursue claims against their insurance policy or the driver’s policy if they have sufficient coverage. However, in many hit-and-run cases, the driver remains unidentified, complicating matters for the victim.

In situations where the driver flees and cannot be located, Tennessee residents may file a claim under their own uninsured motorist (UM) coverage. This type of insurance is designed to protect individuals involved in accidents with uninsured or hit-and-run motorists. To access these benefits, it is crucial to report the incident to the authorities and document all details of the crash thoroughly.

Tennessee operates under a comparative fault system, which means that if a pedestrian is partially at fault for the accident—such as crossing outside of a designated crosswalk—the compensation they can recover may be reduced by their percentage of fault. Understanding this aspect of the law is essential for potential claimants.

In addition to navigating insurance claims, victims of pedestrian hit-and-run accidents should consider consulting with an experienced personal injury attorney. An attorney can help victims understand their rights and guide them through the process of filing a claim, whether against an identified driver or through their UM coverage.

The statute of limitations for personal injury claims in Tennessee is typically one year from the date of the accident. Given this time constraint, it is vital for victims to act quickly, gathering evidence, police reports, and medical documentation as soon as possible.

Ultimately, Tennessee's personal injury laws are structured to protect victims of pedestrian hit-and-run accidents, providing several options to seek compensation for their injuries. Understanding these legal provisions can empower victims as they pursue accountability and recovery.