Hit-and-Run Auto Accidents in Tennessee
In March 2015, 46-year-old Donald Rogers was killed and his wife, Jennifer Rogers was severely injured in a hit-and-run car accident in on Interstate 40 in East Lebanon. Rogers was driving on I-40 in a Pontiac Firebird when his car and another car crashed. Following the collision, Rogers lost control of his car, which overturned and then came back to rest on its wheels. The other car left the scene.
Jennifer Rogers does have some recourse after this tragic event. In Tennessee, a victim of a hit-and-run accident can file an injury lawsuit against the driver who caused the accident. The victim is entitled to damages to compensate them for their current and future medical bills, lost wages, damage to the vehicle, etc. Additional, noneconomic damages that compensate the injured person for mental anguish, pain and suffering, and disfigurement are available.
Widow Rogers may also choose to file a wrongful death lawsuit against the driver for the death of her husband. Unfortunately, none of these options will be available unless the driver of the other car is found and charged with a hit-and-run. If the driver cannot be found, but the victims maintained Uninsured motorist insurance coverage, a lawsuit may be filed against “John Doe” and the victim’s insurance company would be responsible for the damages.
You are required to stop when you have been involved in a car accident
Tennessee law requires that you stop at the scene of an accident in such a way that you do not obstruct traffic. If there seems to be property damage that exceeds $50 you must call the police and inform them of the location of the accident.
- If there is an injured driver or passenger, you must share your contact information, license number, insurance information and help the injured person get to safety or call 911 for emergency assistance.
- If you hit an unoccupied vehicle, you must leave a note on the vehicle with your name and contact and insurance information.
- If you hit a street sign or a light pole you must contact the government agency responsible for the property and share your contact information with them.
You must file a police report if the property damage or injury over $400 within 20 days, and you must also report the accident to your insurance company.
Our hearts go out to Mrs. Rogers. We hope the driver is found soon and brought to justice, and that she can begin her healing process.
If you were injured in a hit-and-run car crash in Memphis, Jackson or throughout West Tennessee, we may be able to help. Contact the law firm of Bailey & Greer PLLC today to schedule a consultation to discuss your case and get the answers you deserve.
At Bailey & Greer, PLLC we do everything in our power to assuage those fears, and to help our clients find resolutions to their problems. Our Memphis-based law firm offers a wide variety of legal services to individuals and families throughout West Tennessee. When you are hurt, you can trust the injury attorneys of Bailey & Greer.
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