IT'S MORE TO US, IT'S PERSONAL

Side Bar Form

In a rush? Call us.

(877) 715-9300

"*" indicates required fields

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Your Path to Justice Starts Here: Auto Accident Lawyers Chattanooga

Chattanooga Car Accident Attorneys from the Wettermark Keith Law Firm Can Help

Every year, millions are drawn to our charming riverfront, the captivating beauty of Ruby Falls, and the historic charm of the Chattanooga Choo Choo. In fact, in 2023 alone, Chattanooga saw over 16 million visitors flocking to these renowned attractions. While these visitors undeniably contribute to our local economy, injecting vitality into businesses and driving growth, there are drawbacks to this influx.

With the increase in visitors comes a surge in cars, trucks, and other vehicles on our roads, inevitably raising the likelihood of auto accidents occurring. The bustling streets, once familiar to locals, can quickly become congested with miles of traffic. A simple fender bender on Bailey Ave can disrupt commutes while a major collision on the I75 and I24 interchange can result in significant injuries and financial burdens. 

When the unexpected strikes and leaves you reeling, our auto accident lawyers at Wettermark Keith are here to stand by your side. We understand the upheaval an accident brings, whether you're a local navigating the streets you know so well or a visitor experiencing our city's wonders for the first time. Our commitment extends beyond legal expertise; we're dedicated to providing compassionate support and guiding you through every step of the process, ensuring that your rights are protected and justice is served.

CHATTANOOGA CAR ACCIDENT STATISTICS

In 2023, The Tennessee Department of Transportation reported alarming figures: 23,636 car accidents statewide, with 6,204 resulting in fatalities or serious injuries. Chattanooga, too, felt the impact, with 7,208 car crashes recorded. While October bore the brunt with 16,158 accidents, it was September that saw the highest occurrence of fatal and serious injuries, reaching 610. These statistics represent not just numbers on a page, but the profound toll of human suffering and loss of life on our roads.

The reasons behind the high frequency of accidents are varied but often interconnected. Factors such as distracted driving, speeding, and impaired driving contribute significantly to the prevalence of crashes. Additionally, the surge in tourism brings an influx of unfamiliar drivers to our roads, exacerbating congestion and increasing the likelihood of collisions. Road conditions, weather fluctuations, and inadequate infrastructure further compound these challenges. At Wettermark Keith, we recognize the complexities underlying each car accident and are committed to tirelessly advocating for our clients, holding negligent parties accountable, and striving to make our roads safer for everyone.

WHY DO AUTO ACCIDENTS HAPPEN?

In Chattanooga, like many other cities, several factors contribute to auto accidents. These include:

Distracted Driving: With the increasing use of smartphones and other electronic devices, distracted driving has become a significant concern. Activities such as texting, talking on the phone, or adjusting navigation systems divert the driver's attention from the road, leading to accidents.

Speeding: Excessive speed is a common cause of accidents in Chattanooga. Speeding reduces the driver's reaction time and increases the severity of collisions, especially on highways and busy streets.

Impaired Driving: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs remains a prevalent issue. Impaired drivers have reduced coordination, impaired judgment, and slower reaction times, making them more likely to cause a car accident.

Aggressive Driving: Road rage and aggressive driving behaviors, such as tailgating, weaving in and out of traffic, and disregarding traffic signals, contribute to accidents in Chattanooga. These behaviors escalate tensions on the road and increase the risk of auto collisions.

Weather Conditions: Chattanooga experiences various weather conditions throughout the year, including heavy rain, fog, and occasional snow. Poor weather can reduce visibility and create slippery road surfaces, increasing the likelihood of accidents.

Roadway Conditions: Potholes, uneven road surfaces, and poorly maintained infrastructure can also contribute to accidents. These conditions may cause drivers to lose control of their vehicles or lead to unexpected hazards on the road.

Driver Fatigue: Fatigued driving is another significant factor in car accidents. Long commutes, irregular work schedules, and lack of adequate rest can result in drowsy driving, impairing a driver's ability to stay focused and react quickly to potential hazards.

Inexperienced Drivers: Inexperienced or newly licensed drivers may lack the skills and confidence needed to navigate Chattanooga's roads safely, increasing their likelihood of being involved in accidents.

A personal injury lawyer can help determine the causes of your car accident and limit your liability. The personal injury lawyers at Wettermark Keith’s law firm specialize in car accident claims and can navigate the complex legal system to ensure you receive the proper compensation.

WHAT ARE COMMON CAR ACCIDENT INJURIES?

At Wettermark Keith, our auto accident lawyers are committed to assisting victims of car accidents who have suffered a range of injuries. Throughout our years of practice, our attorneys have handled cases involving various life-altering injuries. From head to toe, car accidents can inflict significant harm. These injuries commonly include:

Skull and Bone Fractures

Whiplash

Chest and Lung Injury

Internal Organ Damage

Pelvic Injury

Knee and Lower Extremity Injuries

Internal Bleeding

Lacerations

Burns, cuts, scrapes, lacerations, and fractures could lead to long-term disabilities or even permanent scarring and disfigurement. Our Chattanooga car accident lawyers know how to fight for maximum compensation for serious injuries and life-changing losses. We may be able to help you recover fair compensation for your injury or a loved one’s wrongful death in a car accident.

WHAT COMPENSATION CAN I GET FOR A CAR CRASH?

If you've been involved in an auto accident due to another driver's negligence, poor road maintenance, or vehicle defects, you have the right to pursue compensation for your injuries and damages. This may involve making claims against the responsible individual, company, or government entity. Compensation you may be entitled to includes coverage for:

    Medical Expenses

    Disability Costs

    Lost Wages (past and future)

    Vehicle Repairs

    Property Damage

    Pain and Suffering

    Counseling

    Legal Fees

    Out-of-Pocket Expenses

    Punitive Damages

    The value of your case hinges on various factors, and securing a fair recovery is best achieved with the guidance of an experienced Chattanooga car crash lawyer. At Wettermark Keith, we are dedicated to assisting the injured or bereaved in obtaining the compensation they require and deserve following a serious car accident. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your car accident claim and explore your legal options.

    HOW DO YOU DETERMINE FAULT IN A MOTOR VEHICLE ACCIDENT?

    Determining fault in a motor vehicle accident in Tennessee involves a careful examination of various factors outlined by state laws. In Tennessee, fault is typically determined based on negligence principles, where the party responsible for causing the accident due to their failure to exercise reasonable care is deemed at fault. Here are some key considerations:

    Traffic Laws: Tennessee's traffic laws serve as a foundation for determining fault. Violations such as running a red light, failure to yield, speeding, and improper lane changes are often indicators of negligence and can contribute to assigning fault.

    Evidence: Gathering evidence is crucial in determining fault. This includes police reports, eyewitness testimonies, photographs of the accident scene, skid marks, and damage to vehicles. Evidence that supports one party's version of events over another can significantly impact fault determination.

    Expert Testimony: In complex car accident cases, expert testimony from accident reconstruction specialists, medical professionals, or engineers may be utilized to determine fault. These experts can provide valuable insights into factors such as vehicle speed, road conditions, and the severity of injuries.

    Insurance Companies: Insurance companies play a significant role in fault determination, especially in states like Tennessee with a fault-based insurance system. Insurers conduct their investigations and assess fault based on their findings, which may influence the outcome of your claim.

    Comparative Fault: Tennessee follows the doctrine of comparative fault, which means that fault can be apportioned among multiple parties involved in the accident. Even if you are partially at fault for the accident, you may still be able to recover damages, although your compensation may be reduced based on your percentage of fault.

    Navigating the intricacies of fault determination after an accident can be challenging. Given the complexities involved, seeking legal advice from an experienced personal injury attorney is crucial. In Tennessee, there is a statute of limitations of one year from the date of the accident to file a claim for compensation. It's important to act swiftly, as missing this deadline means you will be unable to recover any compensation for your injuries and damages.

    shake hand Professional man lawyers work at a law office There are scales, Scales of justice, judges gavel, and litigation documents. Concepts of law and justice.

    WHY DO I NEED A CAR ACCIDENT ATTORNEY FOR MY CAR ACCIDENT INJURY?

    In the aftermath of a car accident, the guidance of an accomplished car accident lawyer becomes invaluable. These professionals serve as your dedicated advocates, leveraging their legal expertise to navigate the complexities of the legal process on your behalf. From negotiating with insurance companies to assessing the extent of your injuries and losses, our Chattanooga car accident attorneys handle a range of tasks to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Here's a breakdown of what they can do:

    Negotiate with insurance companies to ensure fair compensation

    Assess the extent of your injuries and losses

    Build a strong case to support your claim for compensation

    Limit any degree of fault attributed to you

    Provide legal guidance and representation throughout the legal process

    Investigate the accident thoroughly, gathering evidence to strengthen your case

    Handle all communication and paperwork with insurance companies and other parties involved

    Advise you on your legal rights and options

    Represent you in court if necessary

    Maximize your chances of obtaining fair compensation

    Alleviate the burden of legal proceedings, allowing you to focus on your recovery

    Advocate for your best interests every step of the way

    With their expertise and dedication, an accident lawyer can alleviate the burden of legal proceedings, allowing you to focus on your recovery with peace of mind. Don't navigate the complexities of your injury claim alone. Contact our seasoned Chattanooga attorneys today for dedicated legal support tailored to accident victims like you.

    Stars-WettermarkKeithStyleGuide_Icon1_041822

    Our 3-Step Process

    Connect With Us:

    Call our office at (877) 715-9300 or use our online form to arrange a no-cost, no-obligation consultation with our Chattanooga legal team.

    We Assess Your Case

    In our initial review, our experienced Chattanooga team will analyze the details of your case and map out potential strategies. If you've experienced an injury due to negligence, we’ll assign one of our expert personal injury attorneys to handle your case.

    We Defend Your Rights

    As one of the Southeast’s top personal injury firms, Wettermark Keith is fully committed to advocating for your rightful compensation and recovery. If an injury has disrupted your life, let our dedicated Chattanooga attorneys seek justice on your behalf.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    The statute of limitations for personal injury claims resulting from car accidents is generally one year from the date of the accident in Tennessee. You must file a lawsuit within one year of the accident to preserve your right to seek compensation for your injuries. If you do not file within this time frame, your case will be dismissed. However, there may be exceptions to this rule in certain circumstances, such as if the injury was not immediately apparent or if the victim is a minor. It is best to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney to understand how the statute of limitations may apply to your specific case.

    No, Tennessee is not a no-fault car insurance state. Tennessee follows an at-fault or 'tort' system, meaning that the driver found responsible for causing an accident is accountable for covering the resulting damages and injuries. This system holds individuals accountable for their actions, ensuring that those who cause accidents are held responsible for the harm they cause.

    In Tennessee, the rear-end collision law generally holds the driver who hits another car or truck from behind responsible for the accident. However, there may be exceptions to this rule based on the unique circumstances of the collision. To understand how this law applies to your situation, it's essential to seek guidance from an experienced Chattanooga car accident attorney at Wettermark Keith. They can assess the specifics of your case and provide tailored advice on the best course of action to pursue.

    Dealing with an uninsured driver can be concerning, but it's important to know that you still have options. If you're involved in an accident with an uninsured driver, you may still be able to seek compensation through your own insurance coverage. Depending on your policy, uninsured motorist coverage may help cover your medical expenses, vehicle repairs, and other damages resulting from the accident. It's crucial to review your insurance policy carefully to understand your coverage and consult with an experienced Chattanooga personal injury attorney for guidance on navigating this situation effectively. They can assess your options, negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf, and help you pursue the compensation you deserve.

    Yes, you can still file a claim even if you are partially at fault for the accident. In Tennessee, the state follows a comparative fault system, which means that each party's degree of fault is taken into account when determining compensation. Even if you share some responsibility for the accident, you may still be eligible to recover damages, although the amount you receive may be reduced based on your percentage of fault. Hiring an experienced car accident lawyer is crucial in such situations. They can assess the specifics of your case, advocate for your rights, and help you navigate the legal process effectively. By working to minimize the degree to which you are at fault, they can help maximize your compensation despite shared fault.

    A personal injury law firm specializes in representing individuals who have been injured due to the negligence or wrongful actions of others. This can include a wide range of cases, such as car accidents, truck accidents, motorcycle accidents, slip and fall accidents, medical malpractice, workplace injuries, product liability, and more. Essentially, if you have been injured and believe someone else is at fault, a personal injury law firm can help you seek compensation for your damages. At Wettermark Keith, our dedicated team of attorneys is experienced in handling various types of personal injury cases, and we are committed to advocating for our clients' rights and helping them obtain the compensation they deserve.

    It's essential to prioritize your child's well-being after a car accident, even if they don't exhibit immediate signs of injury. Children may not always be able to communicate their injuries or how they are feeling accurately. Some injuries, especially those common in children such as concussions or internal injuries, may not be immediately apparent. It's advisable to seek medical attention for your child as soon as possible after the car accident, even if they appear uninjured. A medical evaluation can help identify any hidden injuries and ensure prompt treatment if necessary. Additionally, seeking medical care creates documentation of your child's condition, which can be important for insurance claims and legal purposes. It's better to err on the side of caution and have your child evaluated by a healthcare professional following a car accident.

    If your lawyer produces no recovery on your case, then you pay no fee!

    At Wettermark Keith, our commitment is to prioritize your recovery and well-being above all else. That's why we operate on a contingency fee basis. With this approach, you won't pay anything out of pocket. Instead, any legal fees and associated costs will be settled from your winnings after the case is resolved. If, despite our best efforts, your attorney is unable to secure compensation for your injury, you won't be charged any legal fees.

    Our law firm firmly believes that your focus should be on healing and your family during this challenging time, without the added stress of financial concerns. Rest assured, we're here to support you every step of the way, ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a comprehensive evaluation of your case and let us handle the legal complexities while you concentrate on what matters most – your recovery and loved ones.

    CONTACT WETTERMARK KEITH’S INJURY LAWYERS FOR A FREE CONSULTATION TODAY

    If you've been involved in a car accident in Chattanooga, don't hesitate to seek the assistance of our experienced legal team at Wettermark Keith. We are committed to advocating for accident victims and ensuring they receive the compensation they deserve for their injuries and damages. With our extensive knowledge of Tennessee laws and dedication to client satisfaction, we'll guide you through every step of the legal process, from filing your injury claim to negotiating with insurance companies and representing you in court if necessary. Let us handle the legal complexities while you focus on your recovery and moving forward with your life. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case and learn how we can help you obtain the justice and compensation you rightfully deserve.

    Wettermark Keith™, with offices located throughout Alabama, Tennessee, and Florida, has an excellent reputation as one of the most accomplished personal injury firms in the country. Wettermark Keith’s reach is not only regional, but it also includes a diverse range of practice areas, including personal injury cases, car wrecks, trucking wrecks, nursing home abuse, medical malpractice, on-the-job injuries, social security disability, and veterans’ disability claims, to name just a few. At Wettermark Keith, we believe in taking cases personally. Our purpose is to practice with care and compassion - to tell our client’s stories and make their voices heard. We do this by building strong relationships based on constant communication and an unwavering dedication to truth and trust. Winning cases isn’t our goal - caring for you is. Winning is just how we show it. As we say, It’s more to us, it’s personal.

    Wettermark Keith was extremely professional and helpful. This personal injury law firm helped my husband over 10 years ago when he fell and broke his foot on vacation. I called them first because I liked their TV commercials. They are very nice people and I would call them again if I needed a lawyer.

    - Juanita

    Law firm Wettermark Keith has exceeded my expectations! I recommend these lawyers to anyone and everyone I come across. Their commitment to their clients is outstanding. Communication is easy. And I got my settlement very fast. I definitely recommend working with Lee Hawker. He is very gracious and kind. He looked out for me and my family and went above and beyond for us. I’m very grateful!

    - Alexa

    My personal embattlement with the Social Security Administration went downhill. From a personal recommendation, I reached out to Wettermark Keith law firm. Brian Smith and his team took my case and throughout the whole process, I felt more than just another number. Frequent updates were provided, and emphasis was placed on ensuring all needed documentation was in place. In the end, the accident case resulted in a favorable victory. A big thank you to my lawyer Brian Smith and the team at Wettermark Keith for the hard work throughout the entire personal injury process.

    - Dallas

    I had the pleasure of working with Mr. Mark English at Wettermark Keith law firm after my car accident in December 2021. He was very thorough in everything, did a wonderful job of explaining everything that was happening, and was super easy to get in touch with when I needed him. I never had a question that was left unanswered by this lawyer. He's very kind and patient, and he made the personal injury claims process so easy for me. I absolutely recommend him, it was a pleasure working with him!

    - Rose

    I am so elated that I utilized Mr. Muhammad Abdullah’s services. In the beginning, he told me the compensation that I would receive for my personal injury claim and I actually received more than that! After my car wreck (in my brand-new vehicle), I was actually surprised that I was in the pain that I was in. Mr. Abdullah made sure I saw the necessary people for therapy and worked hard to get me back into my car after the accident. I felt that he was diligent, listened to my concerns, and quickly got me back in my car and compensated! I will be utilizing Mr. Abdullah again and again, anytime I ever have to hire a lawyer.

    - Madinah