See average payouts made to real Tennessee car accident victims. Find cases similar to yours.

More than 10,466  people are injured and 462 are killed each year on Tennessee roadways.¹

Tennessee is a traditional fault or “tort” state for auto accident claims. In other words, when you or a loved one are harmed in a crash, you have the right to pursue compensation from the at-fault parties. These parties may include the negligent driver, the vehicle owner, or the employer of a working driver.

The average car accident settlement in Tennessee for a moderate injury claim is $31,262. Average payouts range from $5,978 for minor injuries to $256,821 for severe injuries.

Average Tennessee Car Accident Settlement Amounts

We analyzed a group of Tennessee lawsuits filed by plaintiffs injured in vehicle accidents. Each plaintiff received a jury award or settled their case before trial.

This group includes two severe injury cases with payouts of $3,175,424 and $14,900,000. These extreme jury awards were excluded from the averages to avoid skewing the results unrealistically high.

Average Payout by Severity of Injury
Minor Injury	$5,978
Moderate Injury	$31,262
Severe Injury	$256,821
Payout Range by Severity of Injury
Minor Injury	$1,750 - $10,714
Moderate Injury	$15,362 - $65,195
Severe Injury	$71,100 - $820,889

Types of Motor Vehicle Accidents

Rear-end collisions are the most common type of traffic accident in Tennessee, followed by side-impact crashes.²

Average Rear-End Accident Settlements
Minor Injury	$6,460
Moderate Injury	$26,414
Severe Injury	$195,565
Average Side-Impact Collision Settlements
Minor Injury	$5,255
Moderate Injury	$33,025
Severe Injury	$435,736

Types of Car Accident Injuries

Neck and back injuries are the most common injuries from all kinds of vehicle accidents in every state, followed by head injuries.

Serious crash victims typically suffer more than one type of bodily injury. Personal injury payouts are meant to cover all the victim’s damages, including the pain and suffering associated with bodily injuries.

Average Neck and Back Injury Settlements
Minor Injury	$6,760
Moderate Injury	$33,407
Severe Injury	$288,971
Average Head Injury Settlements
Minor Injury	$2,982
Moderate Injury	$31,771
Severe Injury	$275,911

How Car Accident Settlements Are Calculated

Courts, lawyers, and insurance companies base the value of a car accident claim largely on the severity of the victim’s injuries. More serious injuries result in higher medical bills, more time missed from work, the need to hire help for household services, and more intense pain and suffering. This is why insurance companies often challenge injury severity and extensive medical treatments.

Because Tennessee is a traditional fault state, you can seek payment for all your damages.

An easy way to estimate the value of a minor to moderate injury claim is the “multiple method.” Start by adding up your economic damages, like medical bills, lost wages, and out-of-pocket expenses. Then add one to three times that amount to account for your non-economic damages, like pain and suffering.

A multiple of one is reasonable when you spent a few stiff and sore days on the couch after the accident. A multiple of two or three can be justified when your injuries interfered with your daily living for several weeks or months. For example, when a leg injury kept you from caring for your toddler for two months.

For severe injury claims you’ll need a personal injury attorney to get a fair payout. Your attorney will gather evidence to document the scope and severity of your injuries, including future medical costs, loss of potential income, and the significant suffering that arises from severe injuries.

Other factors that influence injury payouts in Tennessee:

• Shared Fault – Tennessee is a 50 percent comparative fault state. This means that you can seek compensation from the other driver so long as you are not equally or more to blame.
• Auto Policy Limits – Vehicle owners in Tennessee must carry insurance liability limits of at least $25,000 per person/$50,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $25,000 for property damage.
• Multiple Claimants – When two or more people are severely injured in the same collision, there may not be enough liability coverage to go around.
• Uninsured Motorist Coverage – Insurers are required to sell policies in Tennessee with uninsured motorist coverage (UM) equal to the policy’s liability limits. The policyholder has the right to reject UM coverage in writing.
• Commercial Policies – Insurance policies for commercial vehicles like dump trucks, tractor-trailers, and ambulances carry higher liability limits than personal auto policies. This can mean much higher payouts for serious injuries.
• Punitive Damages – Tennessee allows punitive damages to be awarded when the at-fault party acted intentionally, maliciously, or recklessly. There are no caps on punitive damages related to accidents caused by drunk or drugged drivers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Minor Injury Case Examples

Most minor car accident injuries are soft-tissue bruises, sprains and strains that will be fully healed within a month. Some stiff and sore victims may lose a few days of work.

Plaintiff Settled Rear-End Back Injury Claim

Type of Injury: Back injury-disc damage
Type of Accident: Rear-End
Award/Settlement Amount: $1,750
Case Summary: Plaintiff reportedly stopped her vehicle at a traffic light at an intersection when Defendant allegedly drove immediately behind and rear-ended her vehicle. Plaintiff reportedly suffered disc damage as a result of the collision. Plaintiff brought a lawsuit against defendant, alleging that defendant negligently followed too closely, failed to give due regard to the rights and safety of others, and drove too fast under the circumstances. The plaintiff sought damages for medical expenses, lost wages, loss of future earning capacity, physical pain and emotional suffering, loss of enjoyment of life and permanent physical impairment. The defendant admitted liability and reached a settlement with Plaintiff.
Location: Anderson County, Tennessee
Case Name and Docket Number: Ambrose v. Harmening, B0LA0487

Small Boy Suffers Fractured Hand and Abrasions

Type of Injury: Back injury-abrasions of pelvis, Hand Fracture
Type of Accident: Side-Impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $2,400
Case Summary: The Plaintiff, a six-year-old male, reportedly was involved in a motor vehicle accident with a non-party vehicle. Plaintiff suffered several fractures of the left hand, and bruises and abrasions of the face, left arm, pelvis and left knee as a result of the motor vehicle accident. The plaintiff brought suit against his insurance company for uninsured benefits contending that the co-defendant uninsured motorist was negligent for failing to keep a proper lookout and for failing to control his vehicle. The defendant contended that the plaintiff’s parents were negligent for failing to properly supervise the plaintiff. Parties later reached settlement.
Location: Sullivan County, Tennessee
Case Name and Docket Number: Ami v. Nationwide, 31756

Shoulder Tendon Injury from Rear-End Crash

Type of Injury: Shoulder-tendon injury
Type of Accident: Rear-End
Award/Settlement Amount: $2,573
Case Summary: Plaintiff alleged that she was driving northbound, she slowed her vehicle in order to maintain safe distance in traffic when Defendant’s vehicle struck her vehicle from the rear. Plaintiff claimed that she suffered injuries to her right shoulder and underwent physical therapy as a result of the accident. Plaintiff filed a complaint alleging Defendant’s Negligence caused the collision. The plaintiff sought damages for her injuries, medical expenses, property damage, loss of income, pain and suffering and mental anguish. Defendant claimed the plaintiff’s alleged injuries were caused by the negligence of the plaintiff, who, allegedly stopped abruptly in traffic for no reason whatsoever. A jury found in favor of Plaintiff.
Location: Davidson County, Tennessee
Case Name and Docket Number: Taylor v. Dale, 12C1465

Jury Rejects Plaintiff’s Emotional Distress Claim

Type of Injury: Head injuries
Type of Accident: Side-Impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $2,982
Case Summary: Plaintiff alleged that defendant’s vehicle collided with his vehicle at an intersection. Plaintiff claimed that Defendant failed to yield the right-of-way to Plaintiff’s vehicle thereby causing the collision. Plaintiff contended that he suffered bodily injuries and emotional distress as a result of the accident. Plaintiff filed a lawsuit against Defendant claiming Defendant’s negligent driving caused the collision and his subsequent injuries. Defendant denied liability and contested the nature and extent of the Plaintiff’s alleged injuries. Jurors returned a verdict in favor of the plaintiff for $2,982 in damages. The jury however rejected the Plaintiff’s claim for emotional distress.
Location: Sullivan County, Tennessee
Case Name and Docket Number: Cason v. Gann, 11-65

Jury Awards Small Verdict for Shoulder Injuries

Type of Injury: Right shoulder injury
Type of Accident: Side-Impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $3,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff reportedly was involved in a motor vehicle accident with a vehicle operated by Defendant. Plaintiff apparently sustained a right shoulder injury as a result of the accident. Plaintiff filed a lawsuit against Defendant seeking recovery for her personal injuries, medical expenses, pain and suffering, and loss of enjoyment of life. Defendant admitted that his negligence was the direct and proximate cause of the motor vehicle accident, but reportedly disputed the nature and extent of the plaintiff’s claimed injuries and damages. The case proceeded to a jury on the issue of the plaintiff’s damages. The jury returned its verdict and set the plaintiff’s damages at $3,000.
Location: Davidson County, Tennessee
Case Name and Docket Number: Hunley v. Bunch, 13C1832

Van Passenger Injured in Rear-End Collision

Type of Injury: Back and neck injuries-soft tissue
Type of Accident: Rear-End
Award/Settlement Amount: $3,233
Case Summary: Plaintiff alleged that he was a passenger in a van. The van was rear-ended by a motor vehicle driven by Defendant and owned by Co-defendant. Plaintiff claimed that he sustained back and neck injuries as a direct result of defendant driver’s negligence. Plaintiff further alleged that he suffered from chronic pain which prevented him from studying effectively and caused him to fail out of law school. Defendants denied liability and contended that plaintiff was not as severely injured as he alleged and that the repetitious medical treatments received by plaintiff were unnecessary. Jury returned a Plaintiff verdict.
Location: Davidson County, Tennessee
Case Name and Docket Number: Mason v. Chester, 05C2885

Neck Contusions from Rear-End Crash at Red Light

Type of Injury: Back Injury-strain
Type of Accident: Rear-End
Award/Settlement Amount: $5,400
Case Summary: Plaintiff’s vehicle was reportedly stopped at an intersection as the traffic light turned red when Defendant allegedly collided into the rear of Plaintiff’s vehicle. Plaintiff asserted that he suffered neck contusion as a result of the collision. Plaintiff filed a lawsuit against Defendant asserting negligence, in that defendant failed to keep a proper lookout, failed to pay attention, failed to maintain a proper distance between vehicles, failed to stop in obedience to a red light in contravention of state law and failed to operate the vehicle at a safe speed. Defendant disputed the claim. Jury returned a Plaintiff verdict.
Location: Sullivan County, Tennessee
Case Name and Docket Number: Klunk v. Lizak, 318894

Injured Policyholder Sues for Uninsured Motorist Coverage

Type of Injury: Back injury-Cervical / Lumbar Strain
Type of Accident: Side-Impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $5,569
Case Summary: Plaintiff claimed that she was involved in a motor vehicle accident with an uninsured non-party vehicle. The Plaintiff alleged that she suffered cervical and lumbar strains as a result of the collision. The plaintiff contended that the defendant issued a policy of insurance under which she was entitled to uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, and that it failed to honor the provisions of that policy. The defendant admitted liability but disputed the nature and extent of the plaintiff’s injuries. Jury found that the Plaintiff suffered bodily injuries resulting from the motor vehicle accident and awarded her $5,569 in damages.
Location: Davidson County, Tennessee
Case Name and Docket Number: Acevado v. Allstate Insurance, 04-1238

Plaintiff Seeks Uninsured Motorist Coverage from Own Insurer

Type of Injury: Back injury-Spinal Nerve Injury; Aggravated back injury
Type of Accident: Side-Impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $6,866
Case Summary: Plaintiff reportedly was involved in a motor vehicle accident with a non-party vehicle. Plaintiff claimed that she suffered an aggravation of a pre-existing lumbar condition that required the installation of a morphine pump as a result of the collision. The plaintiff contended that the defendant issued a policy of insurance under which she was entitled to uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage and that it failed to honor the provisions of that policy. The defendant denied liability, disputed the extent of the plaintiff’s injuries, and contended that she had a lengthy pre-existing medical history and reported no injuries at the scene of the accident. Jury returned a Plaintiff verdict.
Location: Davidson County, Tennessee
Case Name and Docket Number: Binkley v. Allstate Insurance, 319040

Jury Award Despite Disputed Neck Injuries

Type of Injury: Back injury-Cervical Strain
Type of Accident: Rear-End
Award/Settlement Amount: $8,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff’s vehicle reportedly was rear-ended by defendant’s vehicle at an intersection. Plaintiff contended that he suffered cervical strain as a result of the accident. Plaintiff filed a complaint against defendant contending that the defendant failed to reasonably observe other vehicles, yield to right of way to Plaintiff’s vehicle, driving at an excessive speed under the circumstances and take failing to take actions to avoid the collision. The defendant denied he was negligent and disputed the nature and extent of the plaintiff’s claimed injuries. Jurors returned a verdict for the plaintiff and fixed his damages at $8,000.
Location: Hamilton County, Tennessee
Case Name and Docket Number: Hall v. Best Motors, 09-755

Jury Award for Whiplash Injury Damages

Type of Injury: Whiplash
Type of Accident: Rear-End
Award/Settlement Amount: $8,277
Case Summary: Plaintiff reportedly was driving a motor vehicle and was stopped at a stop light at an intersection when a motor vehicle operated by defendant allegedly failed to stop in sufficient time and collided into the rear of Plaintiff’s vehicle. Plaintiff asserted she suffered personal injuries as a result of the collision. Plaintiff filed a lawsuit against defendant asserting negligence in that defendant failed to maintain a due and proper lookout. The defendant contended that plaintiff was guilty of contributory negligence in that when the light turned green, she began her movement out but stopped her vehicle abruptly. A jury found in favor of plaintiff.
Location: Davidson County, Tennessee
Case Name and Docket Number: Walker v. Myers, 18C2476

Court Requires Plaintiff to Stick With Settlement Agreement

Type of Injury: Back injuries-disc protrusion at L4-5; neck and shoulder pain; headaches.
Type of Accident: Rear-End
Award/Settlement Amount: $9,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff alleged that he was driving and as he entered an intersection, Defendant came to a running stop, then ploughed into his vehicle at back left door. Plaintiff contented that he suffered various injuries including headaches, neck pain and muscle spasms in his neck. Plaintiff further claimed he had trouble sitting for long periods of time and was later discovered to have disc protrusion at L4-5. Defendants denied liability and challenged causation. Parties later reached a settlement following mediation. However, Plaintiff tried to back out claiming that depression and pressure from his attorney invoked his agreement. Defendant responded that the Agreement was binding. Trial Court agreed.
Location: Washington County, Tennessee
Case Name and Docket Number: Golden v. Hood, E1999-02443

Bench Trial Award for Multi-Vehicle Crash Injuries

Type of Injury: Whiplash
Type of Accident: Rear-End
Award/Settlement Amount: $9,363
Case Summary: Plaintiff 1 asserted that its insured, Plaintiff 2, was involved in a chain reaction motor vehicle accident when she was stopped at a red light. The Defendant allegedly hit the rear of the vehicle behind Plaintiff’s vehicle, propelling it into Plaintiff’s vehicle. Plaintiff 1 claimed that its insured’s vehicle was totaled and it paid for property damage. Plaintiff 2 alleged that she suffered bodily injuries as a result of the collision. Plaintiffs filed a lawsuit against Defendant. The court in a bench trial found in favor of the plaintiff and ordered Judgment against the defendant in the amount of $9,363.78, plus costs.
Location: Davidson County, Tennessee
Case Name and Docket Number: Geico Advantage v. Campbell, 20C0282

Cardiac Contusion and Stenosis from Rear-End Crash

Type of Injury: Back injury-lumbar strain; Chest injury- Heart contusion, aggravated heart condition
Type of Accident: Rear-End
Award/Settlement Amount: $10,544
Case Summary: Plaintiff alleged that his vehicle was involved in a chain reaction collision initiated when a vehicle operated by defendant and owned by co-defendant struck his vehicle from the rear. The force of the collision allegedly caused Plaintiff’s vehicle to strike the stopped vehicle ahead of him in traffic. Plaintiff reportedly suffered a cardiac contusion and aggravation of pre-existing cardiac stenosis as well as cervical spondylosis with spasms, a lumbar strain and a chest wall strain. Plaintiff contended that defendant’s negligent driving caused the accident. The defendants denied liability and contended that Plaintiff’s heart condition was not attributable to the motor vehicle accident at hand. Jury returned a Plaintiff verdict.
Location: Rutherford County, Tennessee
Case Name and Docket Number: Crabtree v. Jennings, 61148

Speeding Driver in Rental Car Liable for Neck/Back Injuries

Type of Injury: Back injuries-cervical discs C3-C7 and thoracic vertebra at T1-T2
Type of Accident: Side-Impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $10,714
Case Summary: The Plaintiff alleged that he was involved in a motor vehicle accident involving Defendant who was operating a vehicle owned by a Rent-A-Car franchise. The Plaintiff alleged that he suffered injuries to cervical discs C3-C7 and thoracic vertebra at T1-T2 as a result of the collision. Plaintiff filed a lawsuit against Defendant alleging Defendant was negligent for driving at a speed that was excessive under the circumstances. The defendant disputed the plaintiff’s claims. Jurors returned a verdict for the plaintiff, finding the defendant was at fault and awarding the plaintiff $10,714. The court entered judgment in accordance with the verdict and also awarded statutory costs to the plaintiff.
Location: Shelby County, Tennessee
Case Name and Docket Number: Green v. Jones, CT-001138-11

Moderate Injury Case Examples

Moderate crash injuries include more extensive soft-tissue injuries, disc injuries, whiplash, simple fractures, and moderate concussions. Victims may be out of work for weeks or months, and some are left with residual effects from their injuries.

Jury Award for High-Speed Rear-End Collision

Type of Injury: Back injury-Lumbar Strain
Type of Accident: Rear-End
Award/Settlement Amount: $15,362
Case Summary: Plaintiff was involved in a motor vehicle accident that occurred as he drove northbound, and his vehicle was struck on the right rear by a northbound vehicle operated by defendant. Plaintiff sustained a lumbar strain as a result of the accident. Plaintiff filed a lawsuit against Defendant asserting that the defendant was negligent for failing to maintain his vehicle under due and reasonable control, operating his vehicle at an excessively high rate of speed, and failing to keep a proper lookout. The defendant admitted liability, but disputed the plaintiff’s claimed injuries and damages. Jury returned a Plaintiff verdict.
Location: Rutherford County, Tennessee
Case Name and Docket Number: Burr v. Helmers, 59449

Bad Faith Claim Arising from Uninsured Drunk Driver

Type of Injury: Shoulder injury-Contusion
Type of Accident: Side-Impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $16,250
Case Summary: Plaintiff claimed that he was involved in a motor vehicle accident with an uninsured motorist. The plaintiff contended that the defendant failed to stop at a red light, drove beyond the speed limit, and was under the influence of alcohol. Plaintiff claimed that he suffered a contusion to the left shoulder as a result of the accident. The plaintiff contended that the defendant issued a policy of insurance under which she was entitled to uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, and that it failed to honor the provisions of that policy. The defendant failed to appear and a default judgment was rendered.
Location: Sullivan County, Tennessee
Case Name and Docket Number: Pickering v. Smith, 31161; 31193

Side-Impact Crash with Sternum Fracture with Heart Complications

Type of Injury: Chest injuries-sternum fracture; knee pain.
Type of Accident: Side-Impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $16,268
Case Summary: The Plaintiff alleged that Defendant who was traveling northbound failed to obey a red light at an intersection and hit his vehicle from the rear. Plaintiff claimed that he suffered from knee pain as well as heart complications due to sternum fracture. Plaintiff sued Defendant claiming Defendant was to blame for the accident and Plaintiff’s subsequent injuries and damages. The defendant admitted the subject accident occurred but disputed the plaintiff’s claimed injuries. Defendant raised the affirmative defense of contributory negligence to bar or reduce Plaintiff’s recovery from the lawsuit. Jury found in favor of the Plaintiff.
Location: Sullivan County, Tennessee
Case Name and Docket Number: Schott v. Jones, 12225

Concussion and Neck Injuries from Multi-Vehicle Crash

Type of Injury: Head injury-Concussion and Headaches; cervical, thoracic and lumbar strains
Type of Accident: Rear-End
Award/Settlement Amount: $16,340
Case Summary: Plaintiff alleged that he was involved in a multi-vehicle accident when defendant 1’s vehicle attempted to cross over two traffic lanes in order to exit the highway. Plaintiff claimed he stopped his vehicle quickly in order to avoid hitting another vehicle when he was struck from behind by a vehicle driven by either defendant 1 or defendant 2. Plaintiff said he suffered a concussion due to loss of consciousness with headaches. Plaintiff claimed defendant 1 was negligent for stopping in the middle of the roadway while defendant 2 was negligent for failing to maintain a proper lookout ahead. The defendants denied liability. The jury returned a Plaintiff verdict.
Location: Shelby County, Tennessee
Case Name and Docket Number: Jones v. Nelson, CT-002328-11

Jury Award for Bad Faith Uninsured Motorist Claim

Type of Injury: Back injuries-Disc Damage, Lumbar Strain; Shoulder strain
Type of Accident: Side-Impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $23,315
Case Summary: Plaintiff alleged that she was involved in a motor vehicle accident with a non-party vehicle. Plaintiff claimed that she suffered cervical disc damage, lumbar and shoulder strains as a result of the accident. The plaintiff contended that the defendant issued a policy of insurance under which she was entitled to uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage and that it failed to honor the provisions of that policy. The defendant denied liability and disputed the nature and extent of the plaintiff’s injuries. The jury returned a verdict in favor of the Plaintiff.
Location: Shelby County, Tennessee
Case Name and Docket Number: Hurt v. Geico Insurance, CT-000649-08

Plaintiff Wins Bad Faith Verdict Against Her Insurer

Type of Injury: Shoulder injury-Rotator Cuff
Type of Accident: Side-Impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $25,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff claimed that she was involved in a motor vehicle accident with an uninsured non-party vehicle. Plaintiff claimed that he suffered tendonitis of the left rotator cuff muscle and a mild cervical sprain, resulting in a 2 percent impairment of the arm or 1 percent whole body impairment based on loss of motion as a result of the accident. The plaintiff contended that the defendant issued a policy of insurance under which she was entitled to uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, and that it failed to honor the provisions of that policy. The defendant denied liability. Jury returned a Plaintiff verdict.
Location: Davidson County, Tennessee
Case Name and Docket Number: Anderson v. Allstate Insurance, 95C-1155

Plaintiff Award for Uninsured Motorist Head Injury Claim

Type of Injury: Head injuries
Type of Accident: Side-Impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $25,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff alleged that he was involved in a motor vehicle accident with a non-party vehicle. Plaintiff reportedly suffered a closed head injury as a result of the accident. The plaintiff contended that the defendant issued a policy of insurance under which he was entitled to uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, and that it failed to honor the provisions of that policy. The defendant denied liability, disputed the plaintiff’s injuries, and contended that he reported expenses that were unrelated to this accident without any reasonable proof, and that he failed to mitigate his damages. Jury returned a Plaintiff.
Location: Montgomery County, Tennessee
Case Name and Docket Number: Hopkins v. Glanton, 50500143

Uninsured Motorist Settlement Reached on Behalf of Minor Child

Type of Injury: Head injury-Contusion
Type of Accident: Side-Impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $25,745
Case Summary: Plaintiff, a minor, reportedly was involved in a motor vehicle accident with an uninsured motorist while he was riding in his mother’s vehicle. Plaintiff, through his mother as next friend, alleged that Plaintiffs’ vehicle was stopped at an intersection when it was rear-ended by Defendant’s vehicle. Plaintiff claimed that the minor suffered head contusion as a result of the accident. The plaintiff contended that the defendant issued a policy of insurance under which she was entitled to uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, and that it failed to honor the provisions of that policy. Defendants denied liability. Parties later reached settlement.
Location: Davidson County, Tennessee
Case Name and Docket Number: Ami v. Patin, 95C33

Multiple Drivers Liable for Plaintiff’s Disc Injuries

Type of Injury: Back injury-Disc Damage at L2-L5, cervical discs at C3-C7 and thoracic vertebra at T1-T2; Aggravated Arthritis
Type of Accident: Side-Impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $28,285
Case Summary: Plaintiff alleged that he was involved in a multiple-motor vehicle accident when defendant 1 attempted to pass a pickup truck owned by defendant 2 and driven by defendant 3. Defendant 3 reportedly changed lanes into the path of defendant 1’s vehicle who in turn collided with the plaintiff’s vehicle. The collision reportedly caused plaintiff’s vehicle to also collide with defendant 4’s tractor-trailer. Plaintiff reported sustained aggravation of existing arthritis, sprain and tearing of her lumbar spine as a result of accident. The plaintiff contended all defendant drivers were the direct and proximate cause of the accident. The defendants denied liability. Jurors returned a verdict in favor of the plaintiff.
Location: Washington County, Tennessee
Case Name and Docket Number: Gayheart v. Michels, 10174

Passenger Verdict Against Host Driver’s Insurance Company

Type of Injury: Back injuries-Cervical/Lumbar Strain; Knee and Shoulder strains
Type of Accident: Side-Impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $33,217
Case Summary: Plaintiff alleged that the vehicle in which she was a passenger was involved in a motor vehicle accident with a non-party vehicle. Plaintiff claimed that she suffered cervical and shoulder strains as a result of the accident. The plaintiff contended that the defendant issued a policy of insurance under which she was entitled to uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage and that it failed to honor the provisions of that policy. The defendant denied liability and disputed the nature and extent of the plaintiff’s injuries. The plaintiff’s non-party host driver also filed a claim for injuries in this accident and received an award. Jury found in favor of the Plaintiff.
Location: Shelby County, Tennessee
Case Name and Docket Number: Ward v. Geico Insurance, CT-000649-08

Texting Driver Liable for Rear-End Crash Damages

Type of Injury: Back injuries-cervical and neck strains
Type of Accident: Rear-End
Award/Settlement Amount: $35,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff’s vehicle was reportedly stopped at the stop sign at an intersection when Defendant allegedly collided with the rear of Plaintiff’s vehicle. Plaintiff asserted that he suffered personal injuries as a result of the collision. Plaintiff filed a lawsuit against Defendant asserting negligence, specifically, that defendant failed to keep a proper lookout, failed to pay attention, failed to maintain a proper distance between vehicles, failed to stop in obedience to a stop sign, failed to operate the vehicle at a safe speed, and was distracted by texting or talking while driving. Defendant disputed the claim. Jury returned a Plaintiff verdict.
Location: Davidson County, Tennessee
Case Name and Docket Number: Bytyqi v. Hiller, 19C2153

Defendant Admits Causing Crash, Disputes Injuries

Type of Injury: Back injuries-Lumbar Strain
Type of Accident: Rear-End
Award/Settlement Amount: $38,952
Case Summary: Plaintiff alleged that he was involved in a motor vehicle accident when Defendant failed to obey a stop sign in traffic and rear-ended Plaintiff’s vehicle. Plaintiff claimed that he suffered lumbar strain as a result of the collision. Plaintiff sued Defendant seeking compensation for pain, suffering and medical expenses. Plaintiff contended that defendant was negligent in that he failed to obey traffic stop signal in contravention of state laws, failing to exercise proper control of his vehicle and driving too fast in the circumstances. Defendant admitted for causing the accident but disputed the nature and extent of the plaintiff’s injuries. A jury found in favor of the plaintiff.
Location: Sullivan County, Tennessee
Case Name and Docket Number: Dice v. Wilson, 61624

Bad Faith Award for Injuries Caused by Phantom Driver

Type of Injury: Back injury-disc herniation, concussion, and vertigo
Type of Accident: Side-Impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $45,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff alleged that he was involved in a motor vehicle accident with a non-party phantom vehicle. Plaintiff contended that he suffered a disc herniation, a concussion, and vertigo as a result of the collision. Plaintiff sued defendant contending that defendant issued a policy of insurance under which she was entitled to underinsured motorist coverage, and that it failed to honor the provisions of that policy Plaintiff’s spouse filed a claim for loss of consortium. Defendant denied liability, disputed the plaintiff’s injuries, and contended that the non-party driver was liable for the accident. Jury returned a Plaintiff verdict but his spouse received no award for her loss of consortium claim.
Location: Davidson County, Tennessee
Case Name and Docket Number: Krych v. Phoenix Insurance, 496487

Passenger Suffers Closed Head Injury in Side-Impact Collision

Type of Injury: Head injury-closed head injury
Type of Accident: Side-Impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $60,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff alleged that she was passenger in car driven by her daughter when a truck driven by Defendant turned left directly into the path of the plaintiff’s’ vehicle resulting in a collision. Plaintiff alleged that she suffered a closed head injury. Plaintiff filed a lawsuit against Defendant, asserting the defendant unreasonably refused to pay the benefits in breach of contract. Defendant denied liability and contended that Plaintiff failed to mitigate her damages. Jury found in favor of the Plaintiff. Plaintiff was awarded $60,000 in damages plus costs.
Location: Sumner County, Tennessee
Case Name and Docket Number: Doss v. Tennessee, 19338-C

Tractor-Trailer Crash Case Settled at Mediation

Type of Injury: Back injuries- disc ruptures at C6-C7, disc bulges at C4-C6, four desiccated lumbar discs and cervical radiculopathy
Type of Accident: Side-Impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $65,195
Case Summary: Plaintiff alleged that she was involved in a motor vehicle accident with Defendant’s tractor-trailer that was being driven by Defendant’s employee. The plaintiff claimed that defendant’s driver was negligent, specifically failing to keep a proper lookout and failing to maintain necessary vehicle control caused the subject collision. Plaintiff reportedly suffered C6-C7 disc ruptures that required surgery, nerve damage that caused left hand pluralization, disc bulges at C4-C6, four desiccated lumbar discs, cervical radiculopathy and emotional distress as a result of the accident. Defendants denied liability. Parties latter reached a settlement following mediation.
Location: Davidson County, Tennessee
Case Name and Docket Number: Al-Athari v. Morgan, 13C5327

Severe Injury Case Examples

Severe car accident injuries often result in some level of permanent physical or cognitive disability. Victims sustain multiple injuries, including brain damage, internal injuries, complicated fractures, and significant joint and disc damage. Some victims cannot return to their pre-accident activities and employment.

Drunk Red Light Runner Liable for Lumbar Aggravation

Type of Injury: Back injury-aggravation of prior lumbar fusion surgery
Type of Accident: Side-Impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $71,100
Case Summary: The Plaintiff alleged that defendant’s motor vehicle failed to yield the right of way to Plaintiff’s vehicle at an intersection, causing a collision. Plaintiff reportedly suffered an aggravation of prior lumbar fusion surgery resulting in permanent medical impairment. Plaintiff filed a complaint against Defendant contending that defendant was negligent for failing to exercise proper lookout, running a red right in contravention of state law, driving at an excessive speed under the circumstances and operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol. Defendant denied liability and pleaded affirmative defense of contributory negligence against the Plaintiff. Jury returned a plaintiff verdict.
Location: Sullivan County, Tennessee
Case Name and Docket Number: Simpson v. Cox, 10-1284

Jury Award Against Plaintiff’s Uninsured Motorist Carrier

Type of Injury: Back injury-Cervical / Lumbar Strain
Type of Accident: Side-Impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $75,000
Case Summary: The Plaintiff alleged that she was involved in a motor vehicle accident with a non-party vehicle. The Plaintiff alleged that she suffered cervical and lumbar strains and an aggravation of TMJ as a result of the collision. The plaintiff filed a complaint against the defendant contending that the defendant issued a policy of insurance under which she was entitled to uninsured / underinsured motorist coverage, and that it failed to honor the provisions of that policy. The defendant admitted liability but disputed the nature and extent of the plaintiff’s injuries. The Jury found in favor of the Plaintiff.
Location: Shelby County, Tennessee
Case Name and Docket Number: Bayer v. Allstate Insurance, ct-000049-02

Elderly Plaintiff Wins Bad Faith Uninsured Motorist Case

Type of Injury: Head injury-Concussion
Type of Accident: Rear-End
Award/Settlement Amount: $75,000
Case Summary: The Plaintiff, an 84-year-old female alleged that she was involved in a motor vehicle accident with a non-party vehicle. Plaintiff alleged that she suffered a concussion, with dizziness and balance problems, and cervical and lumbar strains resulting from the accident. The plaintiff sued her insurance company claiming that the defendant issued a policy of insurance under which she was entitled to uninsured / underinsured motorist coverage, and that it failed to honor the provisions of that policy. The defendant admitted liability but disputed the nature and extent of the plaintiff’s injuries and contended that they were related to her age. Jury returned a Plaintiff verdict
Location: Shelby County, Tennessee
Case Name and Docket Number: Lewis v. Allstate Insurance, ct-005380-12

Head Injury Victim Wins Breach of Policy Verdict

Type of Injury: Head Injury-brain damage
Type of Accident: Rear-End
Award/Settlement Amount: $85,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff alleged that he was involved in a motor vehicle accident with a non-party vehicle. Plaintiff reportedly suffered severe head injuries resulting into a comatose state for several days following the accident. The plaintiff contended that the defendant issued a policy of insurance under which he was entitled to uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, and that it failed to honor the provisions of that policy. Plaintiff sued defendant for breach of policy. The defendant denied the allegations. Jury found in favor of the plaintiff, awarding her $85,000 in damages. Judge entered a final judgment accordingly as per jury verdict.
Location: Knox County, Tennessee
Case Name and Docket Number: Phillips v. Shirley, 3-453-06

Spinal Nerve With Disc Injury from Rear-End Collision

Type of Injury: Back injury-Spinal nerve with disc injury
Type of Accident: Rear-End
Award/Settlement Amount: $100,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff was involved in a motor vehicle accident that occurred when his pickup truck was struck from the rear by the male defendant’s vehicle while the plaintiff was stopped to turn on a public roadway. Plaintiff alleged that he suffered lumbar disc damage with radiculopathy as a result of the accident. Plaintiff sued Defendant asserting that the defendant operated his vehicle in a negligent manner, failed to keep a proper lookout, and failed to maintain an assured clear distance. The defendant denied liability, disputed the extent of the plaintiff’s injuries, and contended that they were related to a prior motor vehicle accident. Jury returned a Plaintiff verdict.
Location: Sumner County, Tennessee
Case Name and Docket Number: Mcguffie v. Rice, 27899-C

Injured Policyholder Prevails Against Own Insurance Company

Type of Injury: Back injuries-lumbar intervertebral disc syndrome at L4-5 and lumbar strain
Type of Accident: Rear-End
Award/Settlement Amount: $101,233
Case Summary: Plaintiff alleged that his vehicle was rear-ended by a vehicle driven by Defendant, who was uninsured. Plaintiff contended that he was diagnosed with lumbar intervertebral disc syndrome and lumbar strain resulting in a long-term disability of 15-20 percent. Plaintiff claimed he sought coverage from his uninsured motorist coverage from insurer. Coverage limits were $100,000 per person and $300,000 per occurrence. In response, Defendant contended that Plaintiff was compensated for injuries and lost wages. Defendant countered that it owed nothing further under the uninsured motorist policy and filed a motion for summary judgment arguing that Plaintiff had no cause of action. Jury returned a Plaintiff verdict.
Location: Davidson County, Tennessee
Case Name and Docket Number: Akin v. Thomson, 99C-1561

Texting Blamed for Concussion and Back Injuries

Type of Injury: Head injuries-Concussion; Back injuries-Cervical Strain.
Type of Accident: Rear-End
Award/Settlement Amount: $122,755
Case Summary: Plaintiff reportedly was operating her motor vehicle when a motor vehicle operated by defendant allegedly failed to slow and struck her vehicle in the rear. Plaintiff asserted she suffered permanent personal injuries as a result of the collision. Plaintiff filed a lawsuit against defendant, asserting defendant was negligent in failing to maintain the vehicle under proper control, failing to operate the vehicle at an appropriate speed and failing to abstain from texting while driving. Defendant denied liability and disputed the nature and extent of Plaintiff’s alleged injuries. A jury found in favor of the plaintiff, finding damages in the total amount of $122,755.46.
Location: Davidson County, Tennessee
Case Name and Docket Number: Enochs v. Bradley, 19C0235

Plaintiff Verdict Despite Defendant Denial of Liability

Type of Injury: Back injuries- herniated discs at L4-L5
Type of Accident: Rear-End
Award/Settlement Amount: $240,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff reportedly was operating a motor vehicle and while awaiting traffic to clear, a vehicle operated by Defendant allegedly collided into the rear of Plaintiff’s vehicle. Plaintiff asserted that she suffered personal injuries as a result of the collision. Plaintiff filed a lawsuit against Defendant, asserting negligence in that the defendant, among other things, failed to maintain a proper lookout, failed to maintain proper control of the motor vehicle she was operating, and failed to maintain a safe following distance. Plaintiff sought damages for her personal injuries, medical expenses, and loss of earning capacity. Defendant denied liability. A jury found in favor of the plaintiff.
Location: Davidson County, Tennessee
Case Name and Docket Number: Santiago v. Reed, 19C0661

Head-On Crash Victim Suffers Multiple Injuries

Type of Injury: Back Injuries-Spinal Nerve Injury;Cervical Strain; Contusion: Knee;Headaches
Type of Accident: Head-On
Award/Settlement Amount: $271,380
Case Summary: Plaintiff was involved in a motor vehicle accident that occurred as she drove westbound, and upon reaching an intersection, her vehicle was struck by a northbound motor vehicle being driven by an agent of defendant. Plaintiff reportedly suffered chronic cervical radiculopathy, post traumatic headaches, soft tissue injuries to her neck and back, a right knee bruise and emotional distress as a result of the accident. Plaintiff sued Defendant asserting that the defendant’s agent’s negligent and reckless driving caused the subject collision. The defendant admitted liability but disputed the nature, extent, and causation of the plaintiff’s claimed injuries. Jury returned a verdict in favor of the Plaintiff.
Location: Davidson County, Tennessee
Case Name and Docket Number: Hyde v. South Central, 14C2157

Two Defendants Shares Blame for Multi-Vehicle Crash

Type of Injury: Back injuries-disc ruptures at L3-L5; neck contusion
Type of Accident: Rear-End
Award/Settlement Amount: $350,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff alleged that he was involved in a chain-reaction motor vehicle accident when Defendant 1 stopped abruptly in front of Defendant 2’s vehicle. Defendant 2 allegedly rear-ended Defendant 1’s vehicle, pushing it into plaintiff’s vehicle. Plaintiff contended that he suffered severe back injuries resulting in permanent medical impairment as a result of the accident. Plaintiff alleged that defendant 1 was negligent in stopping abruptly without warning while defendant 2 was negligent in failing to stop within an assured clear distance ahead. Defendants denied liability. A jury found in favor of the Plaintiff and determined that both defendants were equally to blame for the accident.
Location: Davidson County, Tennessee
Case Name and Docket Number: Ross v. Crones, 00C-2511

Teen Passenger Suffers Spinal Cord Damage in Side-Impact Crash

Type of Injury: Back injuries-spinal cord damage resulting in disability
Type of Accident: Side-Impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $411,320
Case Summary: Plaintiff reportedly was involved in a motor vehicle accident while riding as a passenger in a car driven by her mother. At the time of the accident, Plaintiff was 13 years old. Plaintiff’s mother, as her next friend sued defendant, claiming that defendant’s negligent operation of his truck caused the accident that resulted in Plaintiff’s injuries. Defendants denied liability and accused Plaintiff’s mother of contributory negligence. The plaintiffs later reached a settlement agreement with the defendants. The parties thereafter filed a joint petition with the trial court to have the settlement approved.
Location: Shelby County, Tennessee
Case Name and Docket Number: Taylor v. Beard, 84505

At-Fault Truck Company Disputes Victim’s Medical Expenses

Type of Injury: Back injury-low back discs protrusion
Type of Accident: Rear-End
Award/Settlement Amount: $615,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff alleged that his vehicle was involved in a chain reaction collision when Defendant’s vehicle struck his vehicle from the rear. The collision reportedly caused Plaintiff’s vehicle to collide into the vehicle ahead of him. Plaintiff contended that he suffered severe low back injuries that rendered him permanently disabled. Plaintiff filed a complaint against the Defendant contending that defendant’s authorized driver, agent or servant’s negligent driving caused the accident. The defendant denied liability and contended that Plaintiff’s medical expenses were excessive and that the Plaintiff’s back injuries were attributable to a previous motor vehicle accident. Jury returned a Plaintiff verdict.
Location: Shelby County, Tennessee
Case Name and Docket Number: Lynn v. Penske Truck, CT-003081-17

Tractor-Trailer Driver Liable for Injuries to Married Couple

Type of Injury: Plaintiff 1: Head injuries-closed head injury, three chipped teeth and eye injury; right ankle dislocation and fracture; left acetabular fracture of the bony pelvis; dislocation of the left hip; chest and abdominal trauma; a fractured left clavicle. Plaintiff 2: Head injuries-right jaw, two chipped teeth and a right ear canal edema; torn right rotator cuff with AC joint separation; left chest wall strain; multiple contusions and right neck pain.
Type of Accident: Side-Impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $820,889
Case Summary: Plaintiff 1 was operating a vehicle while her husband, Plaintiff 2, was a passenger. Plaintiffs alleged that they were involved in a motor vehicle accident with a tractor-trailer truck owned by Defendant and operated by co-defendant. Plaintiff 1 allegedly suffered, among others, a closed head injury while Plaintiff 2 suffered from a torn right rotator cuff with AC joint separation. Both Plaintiffs reportedly suffered permanent medical impairment as a result of the accident. Defendants admitted liability admitted but contested Plaintiffs’ claims for loss of future earning capacity and future business profits. Jury returned plaintiff’s verdict, awarding $103,705.95 to Plaintiff 2 and $820,889 to Plaintiff 1.
Location: Shelby County, Tennessee
Case Name and Docket Number: Mick v. Alside Inc., 1: 05-cv-00143

Two Patients Critically Injured When Ambulance Crashes, Overturns

Type of Injury: Plaintiff 1: Arm injuries- compound fracture of right arm; abdominal injuries and internal bleeding. Plaintiff 2: Back injuries- spinal fractures at five cervical, thoracic and lumbar levels and herniated discs.
Type of Accident: Side-Impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $3,175,424
Case Summary: Plaintiffs reportedly were patients being transported via defendant’s ambulance from an automobile accident scene. The ambulance reportedly crashed into another vehicle and overturned. Plaintiff 1 allegedly suffered a compound fracture of her right arm that required two surgeries. She also sustained abdominal injuries and internal bleeding which required emergency surgery and the removal of a section of her small bowel. Plaintiff 2 reportedly sustained spinal fractures at five cervical, thoracic and lumbar levels, as well as herniated discs. Plaintiffs alleged their injuries were proximately caused by the ambulance accident, while defendants argued that their injuries occurred in the initial collision. The jury awarded plaintiffs a total of $6,350,848, including spousal loss of consortium.
Location: Sullivan County, Tennessee
Case Name and Docket Number: Seang v. Armstrong Ambulance, 21430

Punitive Damages Award Against Three-Time DUI Driver

Type of Injury: Spinal Cord Damage – Foot Injuries
Type of Accident: Head-On
Award/Settlement Amount: $9,250,000
Case Summary: Defendant reportedly drove under the influence of alcohol and passed out completely. He then drifted into the other lane where he collided head-on into a car driven by Plaintiff. Plaintiff was rushed to Hospital where she was found to have no feeling in her legs. Plaintiff reportedly continued to have foot problems, which eventually required multiple surgeries and years of physical therapy. Defendant reportedly was convicted of his third DUI as a result of the collision. The jury found Defendant was negligent and reckless in causing the collision and awarded Plaintiff $350,000 in past damages, $150,000 for future damages, and $8.75 million in punitive damages against Defendant.
Location: Hamilton County, Tennessee
Case Name and Docket Number: Volz v. Davis, 09C0890

Methodology

We analyzed a group of actual Tennessee lawsuits filed by injured car accident victims. All plaintiffs in the sample group received a jury award or settled the case before trial.

Some cases are bad-faith lawsuits against the plaintiff’s own insurance company, filed when the policyholder alleged the insurance company would not make a fair payment of uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage.

One case includes an $8.75 million punitive damages award against a third-time drunk driver who caused a head-on collision.

In cases with more than one plaintiff, the “Award/Settlement Amount” reflects the highest payout to an individual plaintiff.