Chattanooga Car Accident Lawyers

Car accidents can be physically and emotionally jarring. They often leave individuals grappling with injuries, vehicle damage and insurance claims. In such stressful times, having the guidance of a knowledgeable legal advocate can make a difference in the outcome of your personal injury case.

In the heart of the Tennessee Valley, Harriss and Hartman Law Firm, P.C., provides representation to those affected by car accidents in the Chattanooga, Tennessee, and Rossville, Georgia, areas. With more than 100 combined years of experience and a commitment to client advocacy, our seasoned team understands the challenges that you may be facing after a collision and will provide you with strategic legal representation.

With offices in Rossville and Chattanooga, we serve clients in northwest Georgia and southeast Tennessee. We offer free initial consultations and charge no fee unless you recover compensation.

Contact us at 706-406-1649 or through our online form for guidance on how to seek maximum compensation for your losses.

 

What Kinds Of Auto Accident Cases Can Our Team At Harriss and Hartman Law Firm, P.C. Handle?

At Harriss and Hartman Law Firm, P.C., our car accident lawyers manage various types of auto accident cases, including the following:

• Pedestrian accidents: These involve pedestrians who have suffered bodily injuries or were killed due to negligent drivers while walking, running or standing on sidewalks, crosswalks or roadways.
• Truck accidents: Our attorneys handle complex cases involving 18-wheelers, semi trucks and other commercial vehicles. Common causes of accidents are driver fatigue, improper loading and mechanical failures, which often lead to severe injuries.
• Motorcycle accidents: These involve injured motorcyclists who face inherent vulnerabilities, such as lack of protection and biased perceptions, often requiring skilled negotiation to seek financial compensation.
• Bicycle accidents: Our team represents bicyclists injured in collisions with cars, trucks and other vehicles, navigating disputes over right of way, helmet laws and road hazards.
• Rideshare accidents: Our attorneys take on cases involving Uber, Lyft and other rideshare services, including those involving accidents caused by driver negligence, inadequate vehicle maintenance and company policies. In these types of cases, our attorneys’ thorough understanding of insurance policies is crucial.

From the moment you first come to our office to the resolution of your case, you will be communicating directly with our Chattanooga car crash attorneys. They understand the consequences of auto accident injuries and will help you hold responsible parties accountable for a fair settlement.

Return to Table Of Contents.

How Can A Chattanooga Car Wreck Attorney Help With Your Car Accident Claim?

After a car accident, everything can feel overwhelming. Whether it involves dealing with insurance companies or understanding your legal options, the process can seem daunting. At this stage, a car accident lawyer can take on the burden of handling your case. That can allow you to focus on your recovery.

Our Chattanooga car accident lawyers can assist you in various ways, including the following:

• Extensive legal knowledge: Our attorneys are well-versed in personal injury law and can easily navigate the complexities of your case.
• Investigation and the gathering of evidence: They thoroughly conduct investigations to gather evidence – including police reports, medical records and witness statements – to strengthen your claim.
• Negotiation skills: Our lawyers can negotiate with insurance companies, focusing on the details of your insurance policy, on your behalf to pursue fair compensation for your injuries, medical expenses, and other damages.
• Litigation support: If necessary, our team is prepared to take your case to court and advocate for your rights before a judge and jury.

If you are facing various legal and logistical challenges, an attorney can provide invaluable support during this difficult time.

Return to Table Of Contents.

Why Hire A Chattanooga Car Accident Lawyer From Harriss and Hartman Law Firm, P.C.?

One of our Chattanooga car wreck attorneys at Harriss and Hartman Law Firm, P.C., can provide essential assistance with your car accident claim in several impactful ways. Leveraging their extensive experience and deep community roots, our lawyers offer personalized and strategic legal services that stand out in the competitive landscape. We offer the following benefits:

• Over 100 combined years of experience: Our attorneys at Harriss and Hartman Law Firm, P.C., bring a wealth of legal skills and acumen to the table, ensuring that your case is managed with a depth of knowledge and breadth of experience that few firms can match.
• Personalized legal solutions: Understanding that each case is unique, our lawyers provide tailored legal solutions specifically designed to meet the individual needs of each client. This personal approach will ensure that your specific circumstances are considered in the strategy they craft for your claim.
• Comprehensive legal support: Whether our attorneys will be dealing with insurance companies, handling negotiations or representing you in court, they are equipped to manage all aspects of your car accident claim. This includes leveraging their network of engineers, accident reconstructionists and medical experts to build a strong case for you.
• Highly successful track record: With multiple multimillion-dollar advocacy successes, such as settlements and verdicts in personal injury claims, their track record speaks volumes about their capability and dedication to achieving the best outcomes possible for our clients.
• Affordable and flexible fee arrangements: Understanding the financial strain that legal proceedings can cause, we offer flexible fee arrangements. These make it possible for clients to receive high-quality legal representation without upfront costs, as our fees are contingent on whether our team secures a settlement.
• Local insight and resources: With over 50 years of serving the Chattanooga area, our lawyers have significant local insight and access to community resources, which can be invaluable in managing your claim effectively.
• Multilingual communication: To ensure effective communication with a diverse client base, we provide Spanish translation services, making it easier for more clients to navigate their legal issues comfortably.

Our dedicated personal injury attorneys at Harriss and Hartman Law Firm, P.C., stand ready to defend your rights and help you navigate the complexities of your car accident claim with confidence.

Return to Table Of Contents.

How Much Does It Cost To Hire A Car Accident Lawyer?

The cost of hiring a car accident lawyer can vary widely depending on several factors, including the complexity of the case. At Harriss and Hartman Law Firm, P.C., our attorneys are committed to providing the legal advice that our clients need and making our services financially accessible through a contingency fee basis, meaning that you won’t pay attorney fees unless you win your case.

We offer flexible fee arrangements and cover upfront costs, reducing your financial risk. We also provide free initial consultations to discuss your case without any obligation, ensuring that legal services will be affordable and tailored to your needs. This approach will allow you to focus on recovery without worrying about immediate legal expenses.

Return to Table Of Contents.

Can You File A Car Accident Claim In A Different State Than Where You Live?

Yes. You can file a car accident claim in a state different from the one you live in. If you commute between Tennessee and Georgia and get into an accident in either state, you may be eligible to file a claim in that state.

Return to Table Of Contents.

What Steps Should You Take After A Car Crash?

After a car crash, it is crucial to prioritize your safety. Among the critical steps to take are the following:

• Move to a safe location, if it is possible.
• Call 911 or report the accident to the authorities.
• Document the scene, your injuries and any property damage with photos and videos.
• Exchange information with the other parties involved.
• Do not apologize or admit fault to anyone at the scene.
• Contact a car accident attorney as soon as possible.
• Seek medical attention, even if you think you are not seriously injured.

It is vital to seek medical attention right away because the injuries resulting from vehicle accidents can be extremely severe. Injuries to the spinal cord can be long-lasting and brain injuries can be permanent. Untreated injuries may also lead to serious health conditions and even wrongful death.

Return to Table Of Contents.

How Long Do You Have To File A Car Accident In Tennessee And Georgia?

The statute of limitations for filing a car accident claim varies between Tennessee and Georgia. It is essential to know these limits, as failing to file a claim within the specified period can lead to losing your right to seek compensation.

Statute Of Limitations In Tennessee

In Tennessee, you have one year from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. This means that you must file a lawsuit within 12 months of the accident, or you may be barred from pursuing compensation.

Statute Of Limitations In Georgia

In Georgia, you have two years from the accident date to file a personal injury claim. While this provides a longer time frame than the one in Tennessee, it is still important to take prompt action to protect your rights.

Return to Table Of Contents.

Is Tennessee A No-Fault State?

No, Tennessee is not a no-fault state. This means that fault is assigned to one or both parties involved in the accident, and the at-fault party’s insurance company is liable for damages. However, Tennessee uses a comparative negligence rule that means that you can only file for damages if your percentage of fault for the wreck is less than 50%.

Return to Table Of Contents.

Is Georgia A No-Fault State?

No, Georgia is not a no-fault state. Like Tennessee, fault is assigned to one or both parties involved in the accident, and the at-fault party’s insurance company is liable for damages. Under Georgia’s comparative negligence laws, you can file a claim even if you are partially at fault for the wreck as long as your degree of fault is less than 50%.

Return to Table Of Contents.

What Are Common Types Of Car Accidents?

Car accidents come in all shapes and forms, including the following:

• Rear-end collisions, when one vehicle crashes into the back of another
• T-bone crashes, when one vehicle strikes the side of another
• Head-on collisions, which often involve wrong-way drivers or drivers driving left of center
• Sideswipe accidents, which often occur when drivers are changing lanes or merging
• Multivehicle pileups, which frequently occur on highways due to chain reactions
• Rollover accidents, which involve a vehicle flipping over onto its side or roof, usually when rounding a turn
• Hit-and-run crashes, where a driver flees the scene
• Distracted driving accidents, which can be caused by overconfident drivers who are multitasking
• Drunk driving accidents, which involve drivers who are inebriated or on drugs

Accidents involving uninsured and underinsured motorists (UM/UIM) can complicate any of these types of cases.

Return to Table Of Contents.

What Are Common Causes Of Car Wrecks?

The vast majority of car wrecks are caused by nothing more than simple human negligence. That can take the form of the following:

• Use of a cellphone while driving
• Other types of distracted driving
• Aggressive or reckless driving
• Speeding or slow driving
• Failure to adjust to the weather conditions
• Fatigued or drowsy driving
• Improper lane changes or turns
• The running of red lights or stop signs
• GPS distractions or radio adjustments

Whatever the cause, common injuries include broken bones, spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries and severe emotional distress.

Return to Table Of Contents.

What Types Of Damages Can You Receive In A Car Accident Claim?

It takes an experienced attorney to properly value a claim, but you can generally ask for compensation for both your economic and noneconomic losses. Economic losses include medical bills and lost wages, while noneconomic losses involve more subjective damages, such as pain and suffering. In rare cases, when the at-fault driver acted recklessly or intentionally, individuals may be awarded punitive damages, which are designed to punish a driver’s bad behavior.

Return to Table Of Contents.

Is A Car Accident Settlement Taxable?

In general, personal injury settlements are not taxable because they are considered compensation for a loss, not income.

Return to Table Of Contents.

Should You Accept The First Settlement Offer From An Insurance Company?

No. You should not accept an insurance company’s first settlement offer without first speaking with a Chattanooga car accident lawyer. While insurance companies may quickly offer you a settlement, the amount offered can be less than adequate.

Following an auto accident, you may miss work and fall behind on your bills. Our seasoned personal injury attorneys will take on the burden of dealing with the insurance companies and work diligently to try to secure a settlement that reflects the true value of your claim.

Return to Table Of Contents.

What Are The Most Dangerous Roads In Rossville, Georgia?

In Rossville, Georgia, like in many places, certain roads may be considered more hazardous due to factors such as high traffic volumes, poor road conditions and frequent accidents. Roads in Rossville that are generally perceived as being more dangerous include the following:

• Battlefield Parkway: This major thoroughfare experiences heavy traffic, especially during peak hours, increasing the likelihood of accidents.
• Rossville Boulevard: Known for its busy intersections and frequent stop-and-go traffic, this road can be particularly perilous for drivers.
• McFarland Avenue: This road sees a mix of residential and commercial traffic, which can lead to unexpected driving patterns and potential hazards.
• Chickamauga Avenue: This road runs through residential areas, so drivers on it must be cautious of pedestrians – especially children – which increases its risk factor.
• LaFayette Road: As a main route through the city, LaFayette Road has a higher volume of vehicles, including commercial trucks, making it a hotspot for traffic accidents.

It’s important for drivers on these roads to remain vigilant, adhere to speed limits and be aware of their surroundings to minimize risks. Always remember to drive safely and considerately, regardless of the road you are on.

Return to Table Of Contents.

What Are The Most Dangerous Roads In Chattanooga?

Chattanooga has its share of dangerous roads, including the following:

• I-24
• I-75
• US-27
• Ooltewah-Ringgold Road
• Apison Pike

These roads have high volumes of traffic, complex intersections and hazardous conditions. Such factors can make them prone to accidents.

Return to Table Of Contents.

Local Resources For Rossville, Georgia, Car Accident Victims And Their Families

If you or a loved one has been involved in a car accident in Rossville, Georgia or the surrounding areas, here are some local resources:

Local Hospitals

Seek immediate medical attention following a car accident. Hospitals in and around Rossville that provide emergency care include the following:

• Cornerstone Medical Center: Located nearby, in Fort Oglethorpe, this hospital offers emergency medical services and trauma care.
• Parkridge East Hospital: Situated in Chattanooga, just a short drive from Rossville, this hospital is equipped to handle emergency medical situations that arise from car accidents.

Police Stations

Obtaining a police report is crucial for insurance and legal purposes after a car accident. Local stations where you can report the incident include the following:

• Rossville Police Department: You can file a report here as well as obtain copies of any reports for accidents that occurred within Rossville.
• Walker County Sheriff’s Office: Here, you can report and obtain accident reports for accidents that happen in areas of Rossville that fall under county jurisdiction.

Car Repair Shops

If your vehicle needs repairs after an accident, consider visiting one of the following local auto repair shops:

• Rossville Auto Body LLC: Known for quality body repairs and paint jobs, this shop can get your vehicle back in shape after an accident.
• North Georgia Auto Repair: Offering a wide range of services ranging from mechanical repairs to tire changes, this shop can handle various types of vehicle damage.

Towing Services

In case your vehicle cannot be driven after an accident, the following local towing services can transport your car safely:

• Davis Towing Service: Offering 24/7 towing services, Davis Towing can transport your damaged vehicle at any time.
• A-1 Towing & Recovery LLC: Known for its reliability, A-1 Towing provides towing and recovery services in and around Rossville.

This guide should help car accident victims and their families in Rossville, Georgia, manage the aftermath of a car accident. Keep in mind that it’s important to verify the current operational status and reputation of each service provider to ensure that it will provide the best support for your needs.

Return to Table Of Contents.

Local Resources For Car Accident Victims In Chattanooga, Tennessee

If you have been involved in a car accident in Chattanooga, below are some local resources that may be helpful.

Local Hospitals

Erlanger Health System, Parkridge Medical Center and CHI Memorial Hospital are among the hospitals that provide emergency medical care and treatment for injuries sustained in car accidents.

Police Stations

A police report can serve as evidence in your car accident claim. After calling the police to the accident scene, they will create a report. You can obtain a copy of the report from the Chattanooga Police Department or Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office.

Car Repair Shops

Your vehicle may require repairs or replacement. Local car repair shops include A-1 Towing & Repair, Tire World & Auto Service and Hixson Transmission & Total Care.

Towing Services

You may also need to have your vehicle towed. Towing services include the American Tow & Recovery, Bell’s Towing and Maxi Auto Service.

Return to Table Of Contents.

Learn How To Seek Justice In A Free Consultation With A Chattanooga Car Accident Attorney

Don’t face the aftermath of a car accident alone. If you have been injured in a collision in Tennessee or Georgia, our dedicated legal team of personal injury lawyers  at Harriss and Hartman Law Firm, P.C., is here to help. With our attorneys’ experience and commitment to meeting your needs, they will fight to seek justice, protect your rights and pursue fair compensation. Call 706-406-1649 or complete our online form today for a free initial consultation. We also have a Spanish translator to assist in both English and Spanish.