NASHVILLE PEDESTRIAN ACCIDENT LAWYER
TIMOTHY L. MILES
(855) TIM-M-LAW (855-846-659)
[email protected]
(24/7/365)
As a Nashville pedestrian accident lawyer, I am well-aware that Tennessee experienced its deadliest year for pedestrians since 1995, as pedestrian deaths made up 10% of all roadway fatalities statewide. My experience as a pedestrian accident lawyer in Nashville has shown me the devastating effect these accidents have on victims and their families.
Nationwide statistics paint an even grimmer picture. 7,522 pedestrians lost their lives in traffic crashes during 2022, and dark conditions contributed to 74% of these tragedies. We recognizes the vital need for strong legal representation for Nashville’s pedestrian accident victims. As a dedicated personal injury attorney, I work hard to help victims secure deserved compensation while guiding them through complex legal proceedings after these traumatic events.
Nashville ranks as one of America’s most dangerous cities for pedestrians. In fact, a study concluded Nashville ranks second for pedestrian dangers. The low walking score of 28.8 out of 100 shows how tough it is to be a pedestrian here.
Recent numbers paint a grim picture of pedestrian safety in Nashville. The city saw 36 pedestrian deaths and one bicyclist death in 2023. The number of people killed while walking on state routes jumped 17%, going from 24 to 28 deaths. Just 6% of Nashville’s roads account for 59% of all deadly crashes.
Data analysis shows several dangerous spots for pedestrians in Nashville:
Murfreesboro Pike became Nashville’s deadliest road in 2023 with five pedestrian deaths. The corner of Eighth Avenue and Lafayette Street proved risky with 58 pedestrian accidents.
Nashville’s pedestrian accidents happen because of several key factors:
Infrastructure Challenges:
Environmental Factors:
Nashville sees about 84 hit-and-run incidents involving pedestrians each year. One in four pedestrians ends up with serious injuries or dies in these accidents. While only 3% of Nashville’s people walk as their main way to get around, pedestrians make up 17% of all serious traffic injuries and deaths.
The city’s Vision Zero program received $12.50 million to make things safer. They are adding curb extensions, pedestrian signals, and protected left turns. These changes should help protect people walking in Nashville’s most dangerous areas from being Injured in a Nashville pedestrian accident.
Tennessee law protects pedestrians involved in accidents. Victims can seek fair compensation after an accident by understanding their rights.
Under Tennessee Code Annotated Title 55, drivers must:
Pedestrians also have specific responsibilities:
The state follows a modified comparative fault rule. A pedestrian’s compensation decreases by their fault percentage in an accident. They cannot recover damages if found 50% or more at fault.
Tennessee law sets strict deadlines for legal action after pedestrian accidents:
Personal Injury Claims:
Wrongful Death Claims:
Some exceptions can extend these deadlines:
These complex legal requirements make it vital to consult a Nashville pedestrian accident lawyer quickly. Quick action helps preserve evidence and witness statements, particularly if you are Injured in a Nashville pedestrian accident.
Quick action after a pedestrian accident greatly affects your health and legal rights. My experience as a Nashville pedestrian accident lawyer shows these steps will help strengthen your position to get compensation if you are Injured in a Nashville pedestrian accident.
You need to get medical care right away, even when injuries seem minor. Medical professionals document injuries that might not show symptoms right away. This documentation becomes vital evidence for your case because insurance companies often question injuries of a Nashville pedestrian accident victim without immediate medical records.
Good documentation makes your position stronger. Here’s what you need to collect:
Complete Photos:
Critical Information:
Official reports create a formal record of what happened. Here are the reporting requirements:
You can get accident reports through CRASHDOCS.org 5-7 business days after the incident. Only involved parties, their attorneys, or insurance representatives can access these reports. Reports that involve pending criminal charges or fatalities cannot be accessed online.
Never discuss fault or make statements that could hurt your claim. Focus on documenting facts and gathering evidence. These steps create a solid foundation for your case and protect your legal rights.
Tennessee law covers several key areas of compensation after a pedestrian accident. My role as a Nashville pedestrian accident lawyer helps victims understand their rights to financial recovery through these main categories.
Medical compensation has both immediate and future healthcare costs:
Victims can claim their full medical bills under Tennessee law, whatever their insurance coverage. The state’s collateral source rule prevents defendants from benefiting when insurance payments reduce expenses.
Compensation for wages goes beyond just salary losses:
To cite an instance, victims forced to switch from a USD 30.00/hour position to a USD 17.00/hour job can claim that difference throughout their disability period. Permanent disabilities that affect work ability warrant compensation until retirement age and lost retirement benefits.
Non-economic damages address how injuries affect personal life:
Victims can pursue both economic and non-economic damages together under Tennessee law. Those found more than 50% at fault cannot receive compensation. Courts may award extra punitive damages in cases with malicious or reckless behavior, such as hit-and-run incidents.
Q1. What is the typical timeline for settling a pedestrian accident case in Nashville? The settlement process for pedestrian accidents can vary, but it often takes several months. Due to the complexities of the legal system, some cases may extend up to two years before a settlement is reached. Each case is unique, so the timeline can depend on factors such as the severity of injuries and the willingness of parties to negotiate.
Q2. How long do I have to file a lawsuit after a pedestrian accident in Tennessee? In Tennessee, you have one year from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. This time limit, known as the statute of limitations, is crucial to observe. Failing to file within this period typically results in losing your right to seek compensation through the court system.
Q3. Can I sue a driver who hit me while I was walking? Yes, you can sue a driver who hit you while you were walking, provided you were following pedestrian laws at the time of the accident. This typically includes crossing at designated crosswalks or with proper signals. Your case may involve seeking compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Q4. What types of compensation can I claim after a pedestrian accident? After a pedestrian accident, you may be eligible for various types of compensation. These can include coverage for medical expenses (both current and future), lost wages, diminished earning capacity, and non-economic damages such as pain and suffering. The specific compensation available depends on the details of your case and the extent of your injuries.
Q5. How important is it to seek immediate medical attention after a pedestrian accident? Seeking immediate medical attention after a pedestrian accident is crucial, even if injuries seem minor. Prompt medical care not only ensures your health and safety but also provides official documentation of your injuries. This medical evidence is vital for your legal case, as it establishes a clear link between the accident and your injuries, strengthening your claim for compensation.
Nashville pedestrian accidents just need immediate attention and expert legal guidance. My experience as a Nashville pedestrian accident lawyer shows how proper legal representation makes a vital difference in victim outcomes.
These points are significant for pedestrian accident victims:
Nashville’s dangerous intersections and rising pedestrian fatalities highlight why skilled legal representation matters. Our core team will protect your rights and fight for maximum compensation while you focus on recovery. Let’s discuss your case and legal options in a free consultation.
Note that each pedestrian accident case brings unique challenges. Getting experienced legal counsel early will give you better protection of your rights and increases your chances to receive fair compensation.
If you or a loved one have been injured or killed in a pedestrian accident, contact Timothy L. Miles, a pedestrian accident lawyer in Nashville, for a free case evaluation. The call is free and so is the fee unless we win or settle you case, so call today and see what a Nashville Pedestrian Accident and Personal Injury attorney can do for you. (855) 846-6529 or [email protected] (24/7/365).
Timothy L. Miles, Esq.
Law Offices of Timothy L. Miles
Tapestry at Brentwood Town Center
300 Centerview Dr. #247
Mailbox #1091
Brentwood, TN 37027
Phone: (855) Tim-M-Law (855-846-6529)
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.classactionlawyertn.com
NASHVILLE PEDESTRIAN ACCIDENT LAWYER
TIMOTHY L. MILES
(855) TIM-M-LAW (855-846-659)
[email protected]
(24/7/365)
Mon – Fri: 24/7
Sat – Sun: 24/7