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Nashville Rear-End Accident Lawyer
At NST Law, we are dedicated to helping injured individuals and their families get the justice and compensation they deserve.
Content Reviewed by: Attorney A. Parker Trotz
Expertise
Mr. Trotz has handled injury cases involving auto accidents, slip and fall, premises liability, and negligent security. Every day, Mr. Trotz represents those who have been injured and many of his clients have sustained traumatic and life-altering injuries.
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Rear-end accidents are a common occurrence in Nashville and can cause serious, long-lasting injuries. Proving fault in these cases can be challenging, especially without the assistance of a seasoned legal advocate.
NST Law is an experienced, results-driven law firm ready to help victims of car accidents. We offer free consultations and 24/7 availability. Call our Nashville rear-end accident lawyers today at 615-922-7000 to get started on building your case.
- Causes of Rear-End Collisions in Nashville, TN
- Liable Parties in a Rear-End Collision in Nashville, TN
- How a Nashville Rear-End Accident Lawyer Can Assist You
- Common Injuries in Rear-End Crashes
- Compensation You Can Recover After a Rear-End Accident in Nashville
- How Do You File a Rear-End Accident Claim in Nashville?
- Why Choose NST Law for Your Rear-End Accident Case?
- Laws Regarding Rear-End Collisions in Nashville, Tennessee
- Rear-End Frequently Asked Questions
- Speak With a Nashville Rear-End Accident Attorney Today
Causes of Rear-End Collisions in Nashville, TN
Several factors can contribute to a rear-end wreck, including the following:
- Traffic Congestion: Nashville’s rapid growth and high traffic volume, which ranks among the worst in the US for congestion, significantly increases the risk of stop-and-go traffic collisions.
- Distracted Driving: The primary cause of rear-end crashes is distracted driving, including texting, phone use, GPS, and eating, which can lead to delayed reaction times.
- Tailgating and Following Too Closely: When someone follows another vehicle too closely, it reduces the stopping distance, making it easier for them to rear-end the car in front.
- Speeding: Exceeding the speed limit increases the impact force and reduces reaction time. Rear-end accidents at high speeds can result in serious injuries.
- Driver Fatigue: Especially relevant during long commutes, driver fatigue can reduce reaction time and lead to an accidental rear-end collision.
- Weather Conditions: Rain, ice, and fog reduce visibility and braking ability.
Liable Parties in a Rear-End Collision in Nashville, TN
In Nashville, Tennessee, the rear driver is usually presumed to be at fault in a rear-end collision. This presumption, under Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-8-124 is based on the expectation that all drivers maintain a safe following distance and can stop safely if the vehicle in front slows down or comes to a stop.
Drivers are expected to follow at a reasonable and prudent distance behind another vehicle. This means a driver must follow far enough behind another car to:
- Allow enough time to react to sudden stops or changes in traffic
- Avoid a collision under usual driving conditions
There is no set distance or time interval—what’s “reasonable” depends on traffic, speed, and road conditions. However, there are situations where the front driver may share liability, including:
- Sudden, unnecessary braking, also known as brake checking
- Reversing without warning
- Broken or malfunctioning brake lights
- Failing to signal a turn or lane change
- Pulling out into traffic without adequate space
Liability may be established using evidence such as dash cam footage, skid marks, accident reconstruction, or cellphone records.
How a Nashville Rear-End Accident Lawyer Can Assist You
A rear-end collision can leave you with painful injuries, lost wages, and overwhelming paperwork. An experienced personal injury attorney can help by:
- Thoroughly investigating to establish fault, even in complex scenarios
- Gathering and preserving critical evidence, such as police reports, medical records, dashcam footage, and accident reconstruction
- Assessing and calculating all damages, including future medical needs and lost earning capacity
- Negotiating with insurance companies who may try to devalue or deny claims, especially for seemingly invisible injuries like whiplash
- Handling all communication and paperwork
- Working on a contingency fee basis with no upfront costs
- Protecting your rights against unfair blame
- Representing you in court if a fair settlement cannot be reached
Common Injuries in Rear-End Crashes
Rear-end crashes can cause serious injuries—even at low speeds. These injuries may disrupt your daily life and require long-term medical care.
- Whiplash – Neck strain from sudden jerking motion. It is a common injury in rear-end wrecks; however, symptoms can be delayed.
- Back and spinal cord injuries – Includes herniated discs, sprains, or spinal fractures that may lead to mobility issues or chronic pain
- Head injuries – Such as concussions or traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) from impact with the headrest, dashboard, or steering wheel
- Wrist and hand injuries – Often occur from gripping the steering wheel during impact
- Airbag-related injuries – Facial bruising, chest injuries, or broken bones from forceful deployment
- Soft tissue injuries – Torn ligaments or strained muscles in the shoulders, knees, or neck
- Emotional trauma – Anxiety, sleep disturbances, or PTSD can develop after a traumatic crash
Compensation You Can Recover After a Rear-End Accident in Nashville
After a rear-end accident, you may be entitled to financial compensation for the full extent of your losses. Common recoverable damages include:
- Pain and suffering
- Current and future medical expenses
- Physical therapy and long-term treatment
- Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
- Property damage to the vehicle
Loss of consortium, in cases of wrongful death
How Do You File a Rear-End Accident Claim in Nashville?
To begin filing a rear-end crash claim in Nashville, you will need to notify your insurer and gather evidence. It’s important to remember that Tennessee has a strict one-year statute of limitations for filing personal injury claims. Failing to act quickly can jeopardize your right to compensation.
Before speaking with the at-fault driver’s insurance company, consult with a qualified attorney. A personal injury attorney can negotiate for a fair settlement amount on your behalf and deal with the common issues that come up in these types of claims, including lowball offers, delayed claims, and disputed liability.
Why Choose NST Law for Your Rear-End Accident Case?
Our compassionate and dedicated team of Nashville attorneys is here to support you through a rear-end collision case. We have over 35 years of experience in personal injury and in-depth knowledge of auto accident claims across Tennessee. With over 175 legal professionals on staff and billions recovered, you can trust us to deliver results.
We are deeply connected to the local community and stay up-to-date on changes to legislation. We offer full-service legal support on a contingency fee basis, meaning you never pay out of pocket, and we only get paid if we win for you. Review our past clients’ experiences with us through our testimonials:
My experience with NST Law was wonderful. Toni & Lisa was always nice & patient whenever I needed assistance. Abbey made our experience even great at the end, with a lasting impression. Thanks for representing our family. (Jamie Hillard)
NST law is a great law firm. Eileen was very professional and nice. She made sure I understood everything that was going on at anytime. Very satisfied with Eileen and whole team at NST.
Ryan Saharovich, along with the rest of the NST team are amazing. The NST team took the time and patience to answer all the questions I had. Very professional group that I highly recommend.
Our case results speak for themselves, reflecting our commitment to success. Read some of our notable case results below and check out the Six Pillars of NST Law:
- $255,000: PASSENGER INJURED IN ROLLOVER ACCIDENT: Our client, 21 years old, was injured in a single-car accident in which his driver lost control of the vehicle, causing it to flip over. As a result of the accident, our client suffered significant injuries including a broken femur, fractured pelvis, and multiple fractures to his back. Our firm retained an orthopedic expert who confirmed our client sustained permanent impairment to his right lower extremity, which would affect his ability to work in the future. Our client incurred approximately $40,000 in medical bills, and the case resolved for the defendant’s policy limits of $255,000.
- $1,400,000: Tennessee Couple Involved in a Head-On Car Collision: Our firm represented a Tennessee couple involved in an accident with a driver who hit them head on while driving on the wrong side of the road. The wife suffered significant injuries, while the husband passed away after being rushed to the hospital. NST filed suit to protect our clients’ rights. After conducting a thorough investigation into the facts of the accident and identifying all potentially liable parties, our firm was able to uncover two (2) additional insurance policies that were not previously disclosed, including an excess umbrella policy. The case resolved for the total policy limits of $1,400,000.00
- $150,000: AUTO ACCIDENT WITH SEVERE INJURIES: The firm represented a twenty-seven year old female who was involved in an accident in which a defendant ran a red light and struck our client’s automobile. Our client was hospitalized for four days for a fracture to her right humerus which required surgery. Our client received an impairment rating of 5% to the upper extremity and as a result of the injury she was not able to work for over one month. The firm was able to resolve the case for $150,000.00.
Laws Regarding Rear-End Collisions in Nashville, Tennessee
Statute of Limitations
In Tennessee, injured victims of rear-end car, motorcycle, and truck crashes have one year to file a claim, per the statute of limitations. Failing to file within this deadline can result in losing the ability to pursue compensation.
Following Too Closely
Under Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-8-124, drivers must maintain a reasonable and prudent following distance based on speed, traffic, and road conditions. In rear-end collisions, failure to do so often points to driver negligence.
Modified Comparative Negligence
In Tennessee, the modified comparative negligence rule has a 50% bar. This means an injured party can recover damages only if they are less than 50% at fault for the accident. If they are 50% or more at fault, they are barred from recovering any compensation. If partially at fault, but still under 50% liable, their recovery is reduced by their percentage of fault.
Rear-End Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Rear Driver Always at Fault in a Rear-End Accident in Tennessee?
In Tennessee, the rear driver is presumed to be at fault in a rear-end wreck. However, the front driver may share in liability under certain circumstances, such as brake checking, reversing without warning, or failing to signal a turn or lane change.
What Should I Do if I am Rear-Ended?
If any injuries require medical attention, please notify the proper emergency services. It is essential to take photo and video evidence to show the other party’s role in the accident. Rather than attempting to negotiate with insurers on your own, speak with a seasoned attorney who can handle your case for you.
Will My Insurance Rates Go Up if I Am Rear-Ended?
If you are rear-ended and not at fault, your insurance rates should not go up. However, it is vital to receive a clear police report stating you were rear-ended and provide strong evidence of the other driver’s fault.
How Much Is My Rear-End Accident Claim Worth?
Several factors can impact a rear-end collision claim’s worth, including:
- Severity of injuries
- Degree of fault
- Property damage
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
We recommend consulting with a lawyer who can maximize your compensation and ensure that all damages are accurately calculated into a final award.
Can I Still Get Compensation if I Had Pre-Existing Injuries?
Yes—if the accident worsened or aggravated your pre-existing condition, you may still be eligible for compensation. You’ll need medical evidence and legal support to prove the impact of the crash.
Speak With a Nashville Rear-End Accident Attorney Today
If you were hurt in a rear-end crash, NST Law is here to help you take the next step with confidence. Our Nashville car accident attorneys can travel to meet with you anywhere, offering free consultations, 24/7 availability, and no upfront fees—we do not get paid unless you do.
Call 615-922-7000 or contact us online for more information.
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Phone: (731) 427-5550
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