February 11, 2026 | Personal Injury
1. Tennessee Has a One-Year Statute of Limitations
One of the most important things to know is that Tennessee has a very short statute of limitations for personal injury cases. In most situations, you have just one year from the date of the injury to file a lawsuit.If you miss this deadline, you may lose your right to recover compensation entirely. There are limited exceptions to this rule.2. Tennessee Follows a Modified Comparative Fault Rule
Tennessee uses a legal rule called modified comparative fault. This means you can still recover compensation if you were partially at fault for the accident, but only if you were less than 50% responsible.If you are found to be 50% or more at fault, you cannot recover damages. If you are less than 50% at fault, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you are awarded $100,000 but found 20% at fault, your recovery would be reduced to $80,000.3. There Are Caps on Certain Damages
Tennessee law places limits on certain types of damages in personal injury cases.- Non-economic damages (such as pain and suffering) are generally capped at $750,000.
- In catastrophic injury cases (such as spinal cord injuries or severe burns), the cap may increase to $1,000,000.
4. You Must Prove Negligence
To win a personal injury claim in Tennessee, you must prove that another party was negligent.This typically requires showing:- The other party owed you a duty of care.
- They breached that duty.
- The breach caused your injuries.
- You suffered damages as a result.
5. Tennessee Requires Proof of Financial Responsibility for Drivers
Tennessee drivers are required to carry minimum liability insurance coverage:- $25,000 for bodily injury per person
- $50,000 per accident
- $25,000 for property damage
6. Government Claims Have Special Rules
If your injury involves a government entity—such as a city bus accident or a dangerous condition on public property—special rules apply.Claims against government entities often have:- Shorter notice requirements
- Strict procedural rules
- Damage caps
7. Wrongful Death Claims Are Limited to Certain Parties
If a loved one dies due to someone else’s negligence, Tennessee law allows certain surviving family members to file a wrongful death claim.Generally, the right to file belongs to:- The surviving spouse
- Children (if there is no surviving spouse)
- The deceased’s next of kin
8. Settlements Are More Common Than Trials
Most personal injury cases in Tennessee are resolved through settlement rather than trial. However, accepting an early settlement offer can be risky.Insurance companies often make quick, low offers before victims fully understand the extent of their injuries. Once you accept a settlement, you typically waive your right to pursue additional compensation—even if future medical complications arise.Contact a Nashville Personal Injury Lawyer at Minner Vines Injury Lawyers, PLLC for a Free Consultation
If you or a loved one has been injured due to someone else’s negligence, don’t navigate the legal process alone. The experienced team at Minner Vines Injury Lawyers, PLLC is ready to help you understand your options, build a strong case, and fight for the compensation you deserve.Contact our Nashville personal injury attorneys today for a free consultation and take the first step toward securing your recovery and your future.If you’ve been injured in an accident in Lexington or Bowling Green, please contact our car accident lawyers at Minner Vines Injury Lawyers, PLLC for a free case evaluation.Minner Vines Injury Lawyers, PLLC – Lexington, KY Office 325 W Main St #210, Lexington, KY 40507 (859) 550-2900
Minner Vines Injury Lawyers, PLLC – Nashville Office 49 Music Square W #504, Nashville, TN 37203 (615) 676-7060