If you’ve been in a car accident, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, especially when it comes to dealing with insurance. Whether it’s a minor fender-bender or a serious collision, knowing how to file a car accident insurance claim in Tennessee can help you stay calm and protect your rights.
This guide breaks the process down into clear, manageable steps so you can take action with confidence.
1. Make Sure Everyone Is Safe
Before anything else, check for injuries and call 911 if needed. In Tennessee, you’re required to report accidents that result in injury, death, or property damage over $50, which includes most incidents.
If it’s safe to do so, move your vehicle out of traffic and turn on your hazard lights. Safety first.
2. Call the Police and Get an Accident Report
Even if the accident seems minor, having a police report is extremely helpful, especially when filing a car accident insurance claim in Tennessee. The report documents the scene and provides an official record, which insurance companies use to investigate the claim.
When the officer arrives, give clear, honest answers without admitting fault. Let the facts speak for themselves.
3. Document the Scene
Gathering information at the scene will strengthen your claim. Here’s what to collect:
- Photos of all vehicles, license plates, damage, skid marks, road signs, and the surrounding area
- Names and contact info of all drivers, passengers, and witnesses
- Insurance and registration details from the other driver(s)
- The officer’s name and badge number
All of this will come in handy when you file your car accident insurance claim in Tennessee, especially if there are disputes later on.
4. Notify Your Insurance Company Promptly
Most insurance companies require you to report an accident within a short time frame. Don’t delay. Contact your insurer as soon as possible, even if you weren’t at fault.
When you call, stick to the facts. Explain what happened clearly and provide the details you gathered. Be polite, but remember: insurance adjusters are trained to minimize payouts. Don’t speculate, don’t assign blame, and don’t agree to be recorded unless you’re sure it’s appropriate. If you’re unsure, this might be a good time to consult with an attorney.
5. Understand Your Coverage
When you file a car accident insurance claim in Tennessee, your coverage determines what gets paid and by whom. Tennessee is an at-fault state, which means the driver who caused the accident is typically responsible for the damages.
Here’s how it usually breaks down:
- If you’re not at fault: The other driver’s liability coverage should pay for your damages.
- If the other driver is uninsured or underinsured: You may need to rely on your own Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage.
- If you’re at fault or no one else can be held liable: Your own collision coverage may apply.
Knowing your policy limits and coverage types can help avoid surprises during the claims process.
6. Keep Records and Follow Up
Keep a detailed file of all documents related to the accident: police reports, repair estimates, medical bills, emails with insurance, and anything else tied to the claim.
Check in with your insurance adjuster periodically to make sure your claim is moving forward. If anything seems off, or if you feel like the process is dragging, don’t hesitate to get professional help.
Final Thoughts on How to File a Car Accident Insurance Claim in Tennessee
Filing a car accident insurance claim in Tennessee doesn’t have to be a nightmare. By staying organized, knowing your rights, and acting quickly, you’ll give yourself the best chance at a fair outcome.
And if things get complicated or you’re injured and unsure what to do next, that’s where the attorneys at Stillman & Friedland can step in. They’ve helped thousands of Tennesseans navigate this exact situation and are here to protect your rights.
If you or someone you know needs to file a car accident insurance claim in Tennessee, Stillman & Friedland is here to help. Call us at 615-244-2111 or reach out through our online contact form.
Because we care,
Stillman & Friedland
