Tennessee operates under a modified comparative negligence law that will prevent you from receiving any financial compensation if you are found to be more than 50% at fault for the crash. If you are found to be less than 50% at fault, your total compensation will be reduced by that percentage.

While you may feel that you share no blame for the accident, it's not unlikely for the other driver, or their insurance company, to claim that you are partially at fault in order to reduce a potential settlement.

In cases where fault may be contested, you need an experienced car accident attorney on your side to help prove your claim and fight for a maximum settlement.

It's important to report your accident to your insurance company with 24 hours, unless your injury prevents you from doing so.

However, you want to be careful about what you admit to the insurance adjuster. Taking blame for the accident, saying that you didn't get hurt, or making an official statement without consulting your attorney could potentially harm your case.

If the at-fault party's insurance company tries to speak with you, you can ask them to contact your attorney or your own insurance company.

Calling a car accident "minor" gives the illusion that no one was seriously injured; but that's not always the case. Seemingly minor car accidents can still cause injuries that require medical treatment and missed time at work.

Having an attorney represent you, even for a minor crash, could help make sure your expenses are fully covered.

When your bills are piling up after an accident, this is an important question to have answered. Typically, the value of an accident case is directly related to the amount of losses/damages sustained by the plaintiff (injured person).

A broken leg may require surgery and weeks of rehabilitation, whereas a whiplash injury can often be treated with rest at home.

However, do not accept any settlement offer from the at-fault party’s insurance company without first consulting an attorney.

Even seemingly minor injuries can have unexpected side effects, and an attorney can help make sure you receive compensation for future expenses, not just the here and now.