Fault and Liability in a Tennessee Head-On Collision

Head-on collisions do not occur as frequently as other types of accidents; however, they tend to result in the most serious injuries. Tennessee head-on or frontal collisions refer to instances when two vehicles traveling toward each other collide. Although many cars have safety features designed to lessen the impact of an accident, the protections may not be enough to shield occupants from a head-on collision.

Tennessee head-on collision lawsuits typically fall under the theory of negligence. As such, the victim must establish that the at-fault party failed to use reasonable care in preventing the accident. Specifically, the claimant must prove that the other party had a duty of care to the victim; they breached the duty of care, and that breach caused the victim’s injuries and damages. While head-on collisions may seem straightforward, at-fault parties often purport theories to avoid liability and pay compensation.

Defendants in Tennessee frontal crashes may blame their actions on inclement weather, road conditions, incorrect traffic signals, or even the victim’s conduct. While the Tennessee law allows claimants to recover even if they hold some fault for the accident, the law bars recovery if the victim was 50% or more responsible for the accident. As such, it is crucial that accident victims consult with an experienced attorney to ensure that they recover the damages the law entitles them.

Recovering compensation is critically essential because head-on collisions often result in serious injuries or death. For instance, local news reports described a recent Tennessee head-on collision. According to sources, the overnight accident occurred when a westbound traveler slammed into two eastbound drivers. The head-on collision caused one car to catch on fire, and the wrong-way driver and all three of their occupants died at the collision scene.

Head-on collisions often stem from some act of negligence. The leading causes of a Tennessee head-on car accident are:

• Driver distraction
• Driver impairment
• Unsafe lane changes
• Wrong-way accidents
• Vehicle defects
• Unsafe road conditions

As the above case illustrates, head-on collisions often result in severe and life-threatening injuries. If a victim survives an accident, they are often left with life-long injuries and hefty medical expenses. Some common injuries include:

• Traumatic brain injuries
• Spinal cord damage
• Paralysis
• Broken bones
• Internal bleeding
• Lacerations
• Disfigurement

Have You Suffered Injuries in a Tennessee Car Accident

If you or someone you know has suffered serious injuries or died in a Tennessee auto accident, contact a Knoxville injury attorney at the Hartsoe Law Firm. Attorney Mark Hartsoe has extensive experience practicing law in Tennessee and has successfully represented accident victims in their claims for damages. The firm handles Tennessee accident cases involving motor vehicles, wrongful death, premises liability, slip and falls, inadequate security, dog bites, injuries to children, product liability, food-borne illnesses, birth injuries, and elder abuse. Mr. Hartsoe provides his clients with individualized attention, prioritizing their concerns and recovery. He has recovered significant amounts of compensation on behalf of Tennessee injury victims. Compensation in these cases typically includes payments for medical expenses, ongoing treatment, lost wages and benefits, pain and suffering, and more. Contact the office at 865-524-5657 to schedule a free initial consultation with an attorney on our team.