Best Car Accident Lawyers in Clarksville

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Clarksville, Tennessee?

  The resident Montgomery County Sheriff's Office contact number for non-emergency cases is (931) 552-1011. This line can be used to report property damage due to traffic collisions without personal injuries, noise complaints, parking violations, loose dogs, and suspicious persons or activities.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Clarksville, Tennessee?

  People who require car accident police reports can go to the Clarksville Police Department Records Division or by submitting a request online. To get a police report, the driver or the owner of the vehicle should provide a copy of their driver's license, agents may provide a copy of the insurance policy, and lawyers are required to give a letter of representation. The processing time for police reports is three to five business days.

• Where do most car accidents in Clarksville happen?

  According to the information released by the Clarksville Police Department in 2022, Ft. Campbell Boulevard, Wilma Rudolph Boulevard, and Tiny Town Road are the top three areas most prone to car accidents that result in various injuries. Although traffic cameras are placed on these roads, residents are still encouraged to exercise caution when driving.

• Is it a requirement to submit a report to the Tenessee Department of Safety if the car accident occurred on private property in Clarksville?

  If a car accident happened on private property in Clarksville, a report is not required to be submitted. However, it is needed for a car crash that occurred on a public highway or road. Documents and identification like proof of insurance, a valid driver's license, and the current vehicle registration must be presented to the attending officer.

• Do car accident cases always go to trial to recover larger damages in Clarksville?

  Lawyers aim to arrange settlements for car accident cases before it goes to trial so that the victim can avoid higher legal costs, and closing the case as soon as possible means that the clients can focus on healing. Although going to trial does not always mean higher amounts of compensation, attorneys still prepare themselves to fight for the maximum settlement in court if needed.

• Is it okay to speak with an insurance company without a lawyer in Clarksville?

  Talking to an insurance company after a car accident may seem unharmful, but the people involved are only advised to provide their contact information for investigation purposes. The insurance company may try to get a statement from the victim and use it to reduce the value of the case.

• Can the at-fault party still receive compensation for the accident in Clarksville?

  Some drivers believe that they are responsible for causing the accident. However, because of the investigation process, at some point, it may be proven that their liability may be less than the other driver's. In this case, even if they thought they were solely responsible for the accident, they may still have a chance to claim compensation.

• How do I choose a car accident lawyer?

  To select a car accident lawyer, consider the lawyer's experience, focus, and reputation. While nearly any attorney can negotiate with insurers for a settlement, not all attorneys have amassed experience litigating a claim in a court of law. Choose an attorney with a background that includes car accident claimants; it's helpful if the attorney is focused on personal injury law. Lastly, read reviews from previous clients to get a feel for the attorney's helpfulness and responsiveness to clients. The best lawyer for your case is one that you feel comfortable and confident working with.

• What steps should I take after a car accident?

  Immediately following a car accident, get out of traffic as soon as possible and dial 9-1-1. Exchange car insurance information with any other involved drivers and get a police report as soon as possible. Be truthful about what happened, even if you are at fault, but stick to reporting the facts of the accident without offering an opinion on who is to blame. If possible, take photos of your car, other cars at the scene, and the scene itself.

• (When) Do I need a lawyer after a car accident?

  Start working with a car accident lawyer as soon as possible following your car accident (some attorneys even make hospital visits). By reaching out for legal help early on, you avoid some of the pitfalls of trying to handle your claim on your own. Your attorney can also get the ball rolling on reimbursement for your medical bills and lost wages while awaiting the outcome of your claim.

• How long after a car accident can you claim an injury?

  The length of time you can file a claim for an injury following a car accident is governed by the statute of limitations in your state. Although it varies, most states set the statute of limitations for injured parties to seek compensatory damages at three years following the accident or three years after you discover your injuries. In cases where children are injured, the statute of limitations may be longer.

• What do I do after a car accident that I'm not responsible for?

  After an accident that's not your fault, seek immediate medical help if you are injured. Once it's safe to do so, obtain the other driver's contact and insurance information, any statements from witnesses, and photos of the scene. Obtain a police report and contact your insurer and the at-fault party's insurer. If you are injured, schedule a consultation with a car accident attorney to discuss your legal options.

• What happens if someone sues you after a car accident?

  If you have car insurance in force at the time of the accident, your insurance is contractually bound to represent you on any claims that arise, indemnifying you against loss up to the limits of your policy. You can help your insurance company by cooperating fully. If the plaintiff in any lawsuit obtains a judgment above your policy limits, then you can be held personally responsible for any damages awarded.

• What/how much can I expect from a car accident settlement?

  According to the Insurance Information Institute, the average bodily injury claim in 2018 was $15,785. The amount of any particular car accident settlement hinges primarily on the severity of the injuries sustained as a result and whether or not any partial or total permanent disability was caused by the accident. Claims that involve broken bones or nerve damage likely settle for more than claims where soft tissue injuries are present.

• How do I arrange a rental car after an accident?

  To arrange a rental car after an accident, first consider whether your insurance or the other party's insurance will be paying for the rental. If another driver is found to be at-fault for the accident, that driver's insurance may pay the costs. If you are responsible, your insurance may pay if your policy covers such expenses. Speak with your insurance adjuster to determine if you have benefits available.

• How long does it take for car insurance to go back down after an accident?

  Post-accident rate spikes can last anywhere from three to five years, depending on your insurer. However, if damages incurred during the accident are less than $2,000, your rate may not go up at all. Three years is typical for collision and property damage claims. Five years is not uncommon in accidents involving bodily injury claims, DUI or DWI, reckless driving, or serious violations at the time of the accident.

• How to settle a car accident claim without a lawyer?

  To negotiate a car accident settlement without a lawyer, you'll have to prove that the other party was to blame for your damages. Gather evidence at the scene to support your claim, including witness statements and photos. Seek medical treatment for your injuries immediately. Notify the other driver's insurer of your intent to file a claim. If you reside in a no-fault state, you will need to use your personal injury protection (PIP) benefits first before filing a claim against the other party for medical expenses and bodily injury. Be prepared with medical records, police reports, receipts for out-of-pocket accident-related costs, and proof of lost income due to the accident before beginning negotiations.