If you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence in Tennessee, understanding the types of cases personal injury lawyers typically handle can help you determine whether you might benefit from legal representation.
These lawyers can help you with everything from medical bills to lost wages and more. They’ll guide you through the legal process, fighting for the compensation you deserve.
Common Types of Personal Injury Cases
Personal injury law covers many kinds of accidents and incidents. Here are the most common types of cases personal injury lawyers take on:
Car Accidents
Car accidents lead to many injury claims. These cases involve crashes between vehicles, often because of:
- Distracted driving (texting, eating, etc.)
- Driving under the influence
- Speeding or reckless driving
- Failure to follow traffic laws
After a car crash, a personal injury lawyer can establish who was at fault, talk with insurance companies, and fight for fair compensation.
Truck Accidents
Crashes with commercial trucks are typically more complex than regular car accidents. These cases often involve multiple liable parties, such as:
- The truck driver
- The trucking company
- Vehicle or parts makers
- Cargo loading companies
Due to the serious injuries often caused by truck accidents, these cases typically involve higher awards.
Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle riders face special risks on the road. Without a vehicle’s frame for protection, motorcycle crashes often lead to serious injuries. A personal injury attorney understands the unfair treatment motorcyclists sometimes face and works to ensure they’re treated fairly during the claims process.
Slip and Fall Accidents
Property owners are responsible for maintaining a safe environment for their visitors. When they fail to fix hazards, like wet floors, uneven surfaces, or broken stairs, injured people may have grounds for a premises liability claim.
Medical Malpractice
Patients can suffer harm when doctors, nurses, hospitals, or other healthcare providers don’t provide proper care.
Medical malpractice cases can involve:
- Surgical errors
- Missed or late diagnoses
- Medication mistakes
- Birth injuries
These cases usually require expert testimony and careful investigation.
Workplace Injuries
While workers’ comp usually covers injuries sustained on the job, a personal injury claim may be pursued:
- When someone other than your employer caused your injury
- When faulty equipment led to your accident
- If your employer doesn’t have workers’ comp insurance
A personal injury lawyer can help figure out if you have a valid claim beyond workers’ comp.
Dog Bites
Dog owners must control their pets. When they fail to do so, serious injuries can happen. Under Tennessee law, owners may be held responsible even if their dog has never shown aggression.
Dog bite cases often involve:
- Medical costs for wounds and possible infections
- Costs for plastic surgery if scarring occurs
- Emotional trauma, especially for children
- Lost wages during recovery
Your lawyer can help determine who is liable for your animal attack injuries.
Product Liability
Manufacturers must ensure that their products are safe when used correctly. When faulty products cause injury, a victim may have a product liability claim. Millions of Americans are injured every year from using or consuming dangerous products.
Wrongful Death
When someone dies due to another’s carelessness, surviving family members may be entitled to compensation through a wrongful death claim.
These cases seek payment for:
- Funeral and burial costs
- Loss of financial support
- Loss of companionship
- Medical costs before death
While no amount of money can replace a loved one, these claims help families gain financial stability and justice.
How Long Do You Have To File a Personal Injury Lawsuit in Tennessee?
In Tennessee, you usually have one year from the date of your injury to file a lawsuit. This short deadline makes it crucial to talk with a lawyer immediately after your accident.
Some special circumstances may extend or shorten this deadline:
- Cases involving minors may have longer time limits
- Cases in which the discovery of the injury was delayed may have extended deadlines
- Claims against government entities often have even shorter notice requirements
Missing the applicable deadline typically means losing your right to compensation.
What To Expect When Working With a Personal Injury Lawyer
When you hire a personal injury attorney, they will:
- Investigate your accident thoroughly
- Consult with medical experts about your injuries
- Calculate the full value of your damages
- Negotiate with insurance companies
- Prepare your case for trial if needed
Most personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless they recover money for you.
Contact a Nashville Personal Injury Lawyer at Meyers Personal Injury Law to Schedule a Free Consultation
If you’re wondering whether you have a case, contact Meyers Personal Injury Law today for a free consultation to discuss your options. A Nashville personal injury attorney will analyze your situation and walk you through the legal process.
Call us today at (615) 258-9000 for your free consultation.
