Tennessee categorizes personal injury damages into three main types: economic, non-economic, and punitive.

1. Economic Damages: These are quantifiable losses resulting from the injury. They include medical bills, lost wages, rehabilitation expenses, property damage, and any other financial losses directly related to the injury.
2. Non-economic Damages: These damages are intended to compensate the injured party for non-monetary losses. They cover physical pain, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life, and other subjective impacts on quality of life.
3. Punitive Damages: Punitive damages are less common and are designed to punish the defendant for particularly egregious conduct. They are awarded in cases of gross negligence, intentional harm, or actions deemed highly reckless.

These categories of damages help ensure that injured individuals can seek compensation that reflects both their financial losses and the personal toll of their injuries.

In Tennessee, there is a cap of $750,000 on noneconomic damages, which cover pain and suffering resulting from personal injuries. However, there is no cap on economic damages, which include medical bills, rehabilitation expenses, lost wages, and necessary accommodations such as home or vehicle modifications due to accident-related disabilities.

Additionally, punitive damages in Tennessee are limited to either twice the amount of compensatory damages awarded or $500,000, whichever amount is greater. These punitive damages are intended to punish particularly reckless or intentional misconduct by the defendant.

In Tennessee, you have one year from the date of injury to file a lawsuit. Missing this deadline could result in your case being dismissed by the courts, underscoring the importance of promptly seeking legal counsel to initiate your personal injury claim.

There are exceptions to this time limit:

• If the injured individual is a minor, their parent or legal guardian can file a claim on their behalf within one year of the injury. Alternatively, the minor can file a claim after turning 18, with a deadline of their 19th birthday.
• In cases where the victim succumbs to injuries after the accident, the statute of limitations may extend to one year from the date of the victim's death, allowing their family additional time to file a wrongful death lawsuit.
• If the responsible party faces criminal charges related to the incident, the statute of limitations may be extended to two years, providing the victim with more time to pursue their claim.

Yes, seeking medical attention after a personal injury accident is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, your health and well-being should be the top priority, and prompt medical care can help diagnose and treat any injuries, even those that may not be immediately apparent. Secondly, delaying medical treatment can adversely impact your injury claim, as insurance companies may argue that the injury was not severe enough to warrant compensation or that it was caused by something other than the accident. 

Additionally, medical records serve as essential evidence in proving the extent and impact of your injuries when pursuing a personal injury claim. Therefore, it's advisable to seek medical attention promptly and follow your healthcare provider's recommendations for treatment and documentation of your injuries.

If you're unsure about the validity of your personal injury case in Chattanooga, don't hesitate to reach out to Wettermark Keith for a free consultation. Our experienced attorneys are here to listen to your case details without any upfront costs. Whether you've been injured due to negligence or have questions about your legal options, we're ready to help. Call us today at 877-715-9300 to schedule your consultation and start the path towards understanding your rights and seeking the compensation you deserve.