Ask a Lawyer: 4 Steps to Take After a Personal Injury Accident in Tennessee

A car crash, slip and fall, or any kind of accident that causes you injury is incredibly stressful. In the chaos that follows, it’s natural to be unsure what to do next, yet taking the right next steps is critical to protecting your health and your rights. Whatever accident you have been in, one of the most important first steps is to contact a personal injury lawyer in Knoxville, TN.

Ask a Personal Injury Lawyer in Knoxville, TN

Priority One: Your Safety and Health

Your well-being comes first, so first assess yourself and others for injuries. If anyone needs immediate medical attention, call 911. Even if your injuries seem minor, though, get a medical evaluation as soon as possible. Injuries can have delayed symptoms, and a doctor’s record is crucial if you need to file a claim.

Document the Scene

If you’re physically able, gather evidence. Take photos of the accident scene, damage to vehicles or property, and visible injuries. Get the names and contact information of any witnesses. All of this will help your lawyer piece together what happened. Of course, be sure to keep yourself and others safe before you do this. Not only should you prioritize medical care, but if anyone is in danger, or, for example, if a car accident is endangering others on the road because of the positioning, make sure you’ve called the police and dealt with these dangers first.

Don’t Speak Much

It’s normal to be shaken, but try to avoid making statements about who may have been at fault or apologizing. Stick to the facts: date, time, location, and a basic description of events when talking to the police or to any insurance adjusters. Be aware that insurance companies may try to get you to make a recorded statement. This is generally not in your best interest, and it’s best to speak with an attorney first.

Act Within Tennessee’s Statute of Limitations

Tennessee has a one-year statute of limitations for most personal injury cases involving injury or death, and you must file a lawsuit within that time limit or your case will almost certainly be rejected. Don’t wait! The sooner you speak with an attorney, the better. Time is of the essence both for gathering evidence and building the strongest case possible and for ensuring you don’t lose your right to sue.

How Gilreath & Associates Can Help

At Gilreath & Associates, we have the compassion and experience to walk you through this stressful time. With our knowledge of Tennessee law and over 50 years of serving the people of Knoxville, we’ll fight to get you the compensation you need to cover medical bills, lost wages, and the full impact of your injuries on your life.

Don’t go through this alone. A dedicated personal injury lawyer will ensure that you are treated fairly by insurance companies and advocate for your best interests at every stage. Contact us now at Gilreath & Associates in Knoxville, TN for a free consultation to discuss your situation.

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