Kentucky and Tennessee Car Accident Lawyer

If you’ve been injured in a car accident because someone else was careless or negligent, you may be entitled to file a personal injury claim. For the best possible results, a car accident lawyer can help you understand your legal rights and represent you during the claim process so that you can recover all of the compensation that is available to you.

At Hughes & Coleman, we have over 35 years of experience representing injured victims. Our team is available 24/7 to take your call, and a consultation is always free. If you hire us to represent you, we only get paid if we win or recover a settlement on your behalf.

Ensure your rights are protected by speaking with an experienced car accident attorney as soon as possible after your crash. The sooner you retain legal representation, the sooner our team can begin negotiations with the insurance company to get you paid so that you can move forward.

Call our office today at 800-800-4600

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Do I need a car accident lawyer?

When it comes to motor vehicle accidents, the initial crash is often just the start of a long and complicated process that many people are not used to dealing with. Although car accidents can be fairly common, they typically don’t happen to most people every day, and potentially not even every year. Because of this, a lot of people may not fully understand their rights under the law, what compensation they may be entitled to from the insurance company, or what tactics the insurance company will use against a car accident victim to reduce a settlement amount or deny a claim altogether. This is where an experienced car accident attorney can help.

Typically, retaining a lawyer for car accidents is in your best interest if you find yourself in any of the following situations.

  • If you’ve suffered serious injuries or injuries that may become serious down the road.
  • Fatal accidents: If a car accident resulted in the death of a loved one, a lawyer can assist the surviving family members in pursuing a wrongful death claim against the responsible party. This can help provide financial support for the family during a difficult time.
  • Disputed liability: When the question of fault or liability is unclear or being contested by the parties involved, an attorney can investigate the accident, gather evidence, and build a strong case to prove liability on the part of the responsible party.
  • Insurance company disputes: Dealing with insurance companies can be challenging, as they often try to minimize payouts. A lawyer can negotiate with the insurer on your behalf to help you receive fair compensation for your injuries and damages.
  • Complex legal issues: In cases involving multiple parties, commercial vehicles, government entities, or defective products, the legal complexities can be daunting. An experienced car accident attorney can handle these intricacies and protect your rights effectively.
  • Statute of limitations: There are time limits, known as the statute of limitations, for filing personal injury claims. Missing these deadlines can result in losing your right to pursue compensation. A lawyer can ensure that you meet all the necessary legal deadlines.
  • Uncooperative parties: If the at-fault party or their insurance company is uncooperative or refuses to accept responsibility, hiring an attorney can help you present and argue your claim through litigation if necessary.
  • Compensation disputes: If you believe the insurance company is not offering a fair settlement or acting in bad faith, an attorney can assess the value of your case and negotiate for a more appropriate settlement or take your case to court if needed.
  • Underinsured or uninsured motorists: When you are involved in an accident with a driver who lacks adequate insurance coverage, your attorney can help you explore options for compensation through your own insurance policy or through legal action against the underinsured or uninsured motorist.

 

If you find yourself in any of these situations, give us a call so that we can evaluate your legal options. A personal injury attorney at our firm can help you and your family through this difficult time.

Why hire a car accident attorney at Hughes & Coleman

We offer 100% free consultations, 24/7

If you’ve been injured in a crash, call our legal team today. We can help guide you through the car accident claims process, answer any questions you may have, and help ensure your claim starts quickly on the best legal footing possible.

Our team helps you get the medical treatment you need, while we fight for the money you deserve

When you hire our accident lawyers, we immediately work to ensure that you receive the medical treatment you need. While you focus on getting better, we begin negotiating with the insurance company on your behalf.

If we don’t recover compensation for you, we don’t get paid

Our car accident law firm works on what is called a contingency fee basis. This means that if we don’t recover money on your behalf, we don’t get paid. You never have to pay out of pocket – ever.

Over $1 billion recovered for clients in Tennessee and Kentucky

This milestone reflects our success and the trust our clients have placed in us for over 35 years. When it comes to car accident claims, our attorneys serve as your voice and your advocate.

We turn low insurance company offers into big settlements

In many cases, what the insurance company first offers can be much lower than what our clients deserve. The above examples are just a handful of insufficient settlements insurance companies hoped car accident victims would take.

But when the insurance company refuses a fair settlement, experienced car accident lawyers will not just accept it and move on, we will fight. Our team knows how much your case is worth, and we will actively pursue that amount, even if it means arguing your case in front of a judge and jury.

The insurance company is not on your side

 

Tennessee Car Accident Lawyer at accident scene

One important thing that many car accident victims fail to realize until it’s too late is that their insurance adjuster is not on their side. This is because the insurance company is a company like any other – they want to make a profit, and they don’t make a profit by paying people what they deserve after a car accident. The moment you are injured in a wreck, your interests are at odds with your insurance company’s. They want to pay you as little as possible and take advantage of many people who simply want to resolve the matter quickly and who are especially vulnerable after a crash.

In these types of situations, a car accident lawyer can become especially valuable and help you avoid common mistakes after a car accident that could jeopardize your injury claim. Before you speak with an adjuster, it is always recommended that you consult with a qualified attorney who has your best interests in mind.

Reviews and testimonials from some of our clients

"After an auto accident, my life has been turned upside down. Hughes and Coleman has shown empathy for what I have endured and made sure I have seen the very best medical providers out there! Thank you to the entire staff for all you have done to make this an easier transition for me!"

Falisha B. - Louisville, KY

"I am new to the area and got into a bad wreck. We are blessed to be in continuing recovery. Hughes & Coleman have been amazing on every level. They call me to keep me informed, they helped me schedule appointments, and have been all around been great. I have and will continue to recommend them to all everyone I know. They should be your 1st call."

Brenna S. - Bowling Green, KY

"Hughes & Coleman took care of everything for me from the beginning of my car accident, bills, insurance claims, to settlement. They were very understanding and easy to work with through the entire process. They got me more money than I thought I would get."

Toni B. - Lexington, KY

"Hughes & Coleman did an amazing job helping me throughout the entire process of my settlement after my car accident. They were attentive and informative throughout the entire process and made me feel like they really cared about me as a client. They worked quickly and diligently, but also did everything to help me."

Kirsten L. - Nashville, TN

How car accident lawyers can help after you’ve been injured in a wreck

Kentucky Car Accident Lawyer

One reason that many car accident victims contact a lawyer is because they are facing financial difficulties. At Hughes & Coleman, we understand what you are going through, which is why we offer a free consultation. We can explain your legal options and give you the information you need to make informed decisions about how you want to move forward.

If you choose to retain a Kentucky personal injury lawyer or  Tennessee personal injury lawyer from our firm, you can expect top-rated attention and service. Your car accident lawyer will take on the work so that you can focus on getting better.

Common services you can expect from a car accident lawyer include:

  • Obtaining the accident report and police statements
  • Interviewing witnesses
  • Engaging expert witnesses, if necessary, to help with accident reconstruction
  • Collecting and analyzing medical records
  • Working with insurance adjusters
  • Negotiating settlements on your behalf
  • Collecting factual information from the other parties involved in the accident
  • Taking your case to trial and arguing your personal injury lawsuit in court

A car accident attorney can hold the at-fault driver responsible and help you understand what to expect and what kind of remedy they will be pursuing to ensure you get compensated fairly. If you have never been in a car accident, it can be difficult to know what your needs might be financially following the accident. You may have to deal with medical bills, lost wages, lost earning abilities, and more. Our firm can offer options to help you through this.

A skilled car accident attorney can help you recover compensation for damages

Economic damages

Damages in a car accident lawsuit typically come in two forms. On one hand, you have hard costs that can be tied to a dollar amount. These are commonly known in personal injury law as economic damages and can include:

  • Lost wages (including future lost wages)
  • Medical expenses
  • Future medical expenses
  • Lost future earnings
  • Property loss (damage to your vehicle or personal items damaged in the crash)

Non-economic damages

You may also be able to recover compensation for items that are not as easy to quantify. These are referred to as non-economic damages:

  • Pain and suffering
  • Future or expected long-term pain and suffering
  • Emotional distress during and after the accident
  • Loss of enjoyment of life

There may be additional damages available to you as well. Every case is different and proving each of these damage types requires a different showing under the law. Your car accident attorney can help you with this process.

What to do after a car accident

After a car accident, it’s essential to take specific steps to ensure your safety, the safety of others involved, and to protect your legal and financial interests. Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do after a car accident:

Ensure safety at the scene

If possible, move your vehicle to a safe location, such as the side of the road, to prevent further accidents or traffic disruptions. Also, if possible, turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers.

Check for Injuries

Immediately check yourself and your passengers for injuries. If anyone is injured, call 911 for medical assistance.

Call the Police

In most cases, it’s a good idea to call the police, even for minor accidents, to create an official police report.

Exchange Information

Exchange information with the other driver(s), including names, contact details, driver’s license numbers, insurance information, and vehicle details.

Document the Scene

If possible, take photos of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, license plates, and any relevant road signs or conditions. It is also a good idea to write down the location, date, and time of the accident. You will need this information for the police report.

Gather witness Information

If there are any witnesses, ask for their contact information in case their statements are needed later to support your personal injury claim.

Notify Your Insurance Company

Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the accident but be careful about what you say. When you first contact your insurance company, you will likely not be speaking with the adjuster. Stick to the facts and never admit fault. If you’re asked if you are injured, do not say no. Some injuries from car wrecks take time to reveal themselves and you may not feel it at first. You can simply tell the representative that you will be visiting a doctor to understand the extent of your injuries. This step will begin the insurance claims process.

Seek Medical Attention

Even if you don’t feel injured immediately, it’s a good idea to seek medical attention to rule out hidden injuries or complications. Once again, many common injuries, such as whiplash, may not be noticeable right away, so it is important to be evaluated by a medical professional as soon as possible.

Document the Accident

Keep a record of all interactions and communications related to the accident, including police reports, medical bills, and conversations with the other driver and insurance companies.

Contact an experienced car accident lawyer

If the accident resulted in significant injuries or if there are disputes over liability, a car accident lawyer can help protect your legal interests and guide you through the car accident claim process so that you receive the financial compensation you deserve.

Should I get a lawyer for a car accident that wasn’t my fault?

One of the most significant aspects of personal injury law that a lawyer for car accidents will address when taking on your case is negligence. A person acts negligently in legal terms when they do something that a reasonable person would not do and causes injury.

Your attorney will investigate four fundamental considerations in order to prove negligence:

Duty of Care

In general, everyone has a responsibility to prevent harming another person. In different settings, this obligation takes on a distinct appearance. Doctors, for example, have a responsibility to treat their patients to the best of their abilities. Drivers have a responsibility not to endanger others on the road. They must adhere to all traffic laws and drive cautiously.

Breach of Duty of Care

A driver is considered to have breached their duty of care when they fail to act in a “reasonably prudent” manner and cause injury. A breach of duty of care does not, however, cause every accident. For example, if a large branch falls into the road and a driver needs to swerve to escape it, resulting in a collision, the driver may not have violated their duty of care. After all, a responsible person would have reacted in a similar manner. However, if the driver was texting or not paying attention to the road and it causes them to swerve and hit someone, they would most likely be considered negligent.

Injuries As a Result of the Accident

A car accident lawyer will determine whether your injuries were caused by the accident or by something else entirely. Insurance firms will try to blame your car accident injuries on something other than the crash. For example, they will check your medical history to see whether another event caused your injuries, such as a previous automobile accident, workplace accident, or sports injury. It is critical to have a lawyer who is familiar with the medical and technical aspects of your injury and who can successfully demonstrate that the wreck caused your injuries.

Accident-Related Damages

Finally, car accident attorneys must show that the accident caused you to incur actual monetary losses as a result of the event. This is usually the simplest aspect to demonstrate. Medical bills, pain, suffering, missed pay, and other expenses, including evidence such as property damage, are all proof that you were injured.

We are ready to help. Please call now at 800-800-4600 or contact us online today for a free case evaluation. We have the resources to ensure that accident victims receive fair treatment while recovering from their injuries.

Common types of wrecks that result in personal injury claims

We handle practically every type of vehicle accident at Hughes & Coleman Law Firm. While not exhaustive, the following are some of types of car accidents we deal with that often result in serious injury:

Common causes of car accidents

Various circumstances can cause car accidents. A skilled auto accident lawyer can help you collect the maximum compensation you deserve for your injuries, regardless of the cause. The most common causes of auto accidents are:

Drunk or drugged driving:  Still the leading cause of car accidents. Even when buzzing, the ability of a drunk driver to focus on the road and make quick decisions begins to deteriorate. When buzzed turns into drunk, vision may double, making driving difficult. Although Tennessee and Kentucky are toughening their stand against drunk driving with laws such as Melanie’s Law in Kentucky, and Tennessee’s 2023 Ethan’s, Hailey’s, and Bentley’s Law, many people continue to drive under the influence and pose a danger to others on the road.

Driving while texting: One of the most critical hazards on the highways are accidents caused by distracted drivers, which includes texting while driving. Despite the fact that many states have approved hands-free rules, people still text while driving. Reading or responding to a text can keep a driver’s eyes off the road for five seconds at highway speeds, which is enough time to go 300 yards or more without glancing at the road.

Speeding: We’ve all been tempted to drive faster than is safe, especially when we’re in a rush. However, there is a reason why speed limits are in place. When a driver speeds up, it becomes more difficult to maintain good control of the vehicle. Even a slight turn of the wheel at high speeds can be fatal. Furthermore, if traffic in front of you suddenly slows, it becomes much more difficult to come to a complete stop.

Potholes, metal plates, and poor drainage:  Road hazards like these are all too common on the interstates, as everyone who has driven them knows. For drivers, these road conditions might soon become perilous. They can lead drivers to lose control of their vehicles or cause them to malfunction, causing them to crash into oncoming traffic or cause other accidents.

Recalls and Defects in Automobiles: Even while automakers go to great lengths to guarantee that their vehicles are safe to drive, some flaws may not become apparent for years. After three years of service, engines, for example, may overheat and catch fire. Alternatively, airbags may fail to deploy correctly after a period of time. When manufacturing problems occur out of nowhere, they might result in serious, even life-threatening, car accidents.

Exhaustion: Uber and Lyft drivers, in particular, may drive for long periods of time, becoming exhausted and unable to drive safely. Because there are no restrictions on how long an Uber or Lyft driver can drive, unlike truck drivers, many of them have a full-time job and then drive for a few more hours, which is risky and frequently ends in a car wreck.

Road rage or aggressive driving: A motor vehicle accident can be caused by drivers who are driving aggressively, or who are otherwise acting in a reckless manner.

A car wreck can be caused by a number of factors, and no two car accidents are ever the same. Regardless of what caused the crash, if you’ve been injured and it wasn’t your fault, contact an experienced car accident lawyer today to pursue your claim.


Call our legal team today at 800-800-4600 for a free consultation.

Common car accident injuries

Victim injured after a car accident

Auto accidents can be extremely frightening and confusing. If you or a loved one have been seriously injured, getting the medical help you need is the first priority. Serious injuries can have long-term consequences that you may not realize at the time of the accident or even in the days or weeks following the auto accident. In fact, you may not realize the long-term effects of your injuries until years down the road.

Some common car accident injuries include:

  • Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
  • Broken bones
  • Neck and back injuries, including whiplash
  • Spinal cord injuries
  • Cuts and bruises
  • Fatal car accidents can also result in a wrongful death claim
  • Burn injuries
  • Phycological injuries, including PTSD or anxiety after a car crash

How to choose the top best car accident lawyer for you

When deciding which car accident lawyers will be best for you and your situation, there are some important things you should consider. Choosing a good car accident lawyer can be a difficult process and can add to the stress car accident victims are already facing as a result of their injuries and the aftermath of a crash. When selecting a personal injury lawyer to represent you, the most important questions to ask include:

Does the law firm have the experience to help me?

Many accident lawyers may not have dedicated teams to help with all aspects of your case and, as a result, may urge you to accept a settlement that is not in your best interest. Choose a car accident lawyer with years of experience representing clients who have been in similar situations as the one you face and can demonstrate that experience by actual settlements or verdicts they’ve obtained from previous clients.

Is the car accident lawyer near me?

Having your attorney near you can be beneficial during a car accident lawsuit or claim process. Although meeting with your attorney in person is unnecessary, having the ability to do so can set you at ease and help you form a relationship with those you have chosen to represent you. Additionally, local car accident lawyers will know local laws, be familiar with local streets, and can also visit the scene of the crash to investigate further if needed. A local personal injury attorney can be very helpful when it comes to building your case.

Experienced car accident lawyers will have what it takes to go to trial

Although most car accident cases end in settlements, having a car accident lawyer with trial experience can help you in a number of ways. Firstly, you can be confident that they will fight for every dollar you deserve and not just accept a settlement and move on. Secondly, you can be assured that they will be prepared for a trial from the start and have the experience to follow through if the insurance company refuses to compensate you with a fair settlement offer. Select experienced personal injury attorneys who are not afraid to take your case to trial if necessary.

Does the firm have the resources to help you receive the medical care you need?

When you hire Hughes & Coleman injury lawyers, our team ensures that you receive the medical care you need while we actively negotiate with the other driver’s insurance company or your own insurance company to get you the most compensation possible. We understand that your health cannot wait, and we have staff dedicated to helping make your appointments and to check in on you as your case progresses.

Hire a car accident lawyer near you in Kentucky or Tennessee

Our mission as personal injury attorneys is to represent injured people, but we don’t want you to think of us as just that: personal injury attorneys. Our team members are part of the community.

We live and work here, and it’s the place we call home. We live in the same neighborhoods as you and want to ensure that our neighbors and friends are well taken care of.

We have a growing team of more than 30 attorneys and more than 60 staff members to help you through this process, including case coordinators, investigators, and paralegals.


Call us today to start your claim at 800-800-4600. We are available 24/7.

Find a top-rated car accident lawyer in Kentucky

Wherever you live in Kentucky, our firm can help. Our offices are located throughout the state. If you prefer to handle things remotely, you don’t need to come to our offices at all. If you need us and are unable to travel, we will even come to you. Our job is to make things as easy as possible for you during this time. Let us help you get it done and move past this so that you can focus on your recovery.

Bowling Green car accident lawyers

Louisville car accident lawyers

Lexington car accident lawyers

Elizabethtown car accident lawyers

Find a top-rated car accident lawyer in Tennessee

Our Tennessee car accident lawyers can also help wherever you are located in the state. If you’re in Middle Tennessee, southern Tennessee, eastern, western, or northern – we can help. Don’t hesitate to call us today to talk through your claim. We’re here for you 24/7.

Nashville car accident lawyers

Clarksville car accident lawyers

Murfreesboro car accident lawyers

Columbia car accident lawyers

Gallatin car accident lawyers

If you’ve been injured in a wreck that wasn’t your fault, call us today at 800-800-4600

Get it done.

Frequently asked questions and helpful tips

Should I contact a car accident lawyer for a minor car accident?

Yes, even if you were involved in a seemingly minor car accident, you should consult with a knowledgeable attorney. Accidents that seem minor can often result in severe injuries, many of which may not be noticeable right away. Never assume that your accident isn’t serious. Protect your rights immediately by contacting an experienced personal injury attorney.

When is it too late to get a lawyer for a car accident?

Each state has a time limit for accident victims to file a personal injury lawsuit. This is referred to as the statute of limitations. In Kentucky and Tennessee, the statute of limitations for car accidents is one year. This means that you must file a claim within one year from the date of the accident, or you will not be able to pursue compensation for your injuries.

How much does a car accident lawyer cost?

At Hughes & Coleman, our car accident lawyers work on what is called a contingency basis. This means that we cover all out-of-pocket costs, and unless we settle or win your case, you never have to pay us a dime. If we settle or win your case, we will retain a fee that is agreed upon from the start.

How to settle a car accident claim without a lawyer

Not every car accident will require a lawyer. For instance, if there were no injuries and only property damage, you can work with your own insurance company to recover compensation and damages. These types of situations are fairly easy to navigate and can be done by contacting your insurance representative to discuss your coverage and what you may be entitled to.

How long do car accident settlements take?

There is no set time for how long a settlement may take because many things must be factored in order to ensure you receive the most money possible for your injuries. For example, even the most experienced car accident lawyer will need to understand the full extent of your injuries to know the damages you may be entitled to. This means that the length of a settlement depends on how long it takes you to recover or your doctors deciding that you have reached a point that further treatment will not be beneficial.

When a person has reached a point where they are not expected to improve further from an injury, it is often referred to as “maximum medical improvement” (MMI). MMI is a medical and legal term used to indicate that the individual’s condition has stabilized and that further medical treatments or therapies are not likely to result in significant additional improvement. It is commonly used in the context of personal injury cases, such as those resulting from car accidents, to assess the extent of permanent disability and determine the appropriate compensation for the injured party.


If you have any other questions, reach out to us at any time. We’re here and can help guide you through the best possible next steps for obtaining compensation for your injuries.

 

 

Get In Touch Today!

We offer free consultations 24/7 and there will always be someone here to take your call. Call our personal injury lawyers today for a free consultation or fill out this form and we will contact you.

We serve clients across Tennessee and Kentucky and we have several offices throughout both states. See all of our locations and contact us today.

Kentucky Locations


BOWLING GREEN

1256 Campbell Ln #201

Bowling Green, KY 42104

Phone: (270) 782-6000

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ELIZABETHTOWN

2110 N Dixie Hwy #102

Elizabethtown, KY 42701

Phone: (270) 737-0640

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LOUISVILLE POPLAR LEVEL

5004 Poplar Level Rd

Louisville, KY 40219

Phone: (502) 585-4025

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LOUISVILLE DIXIE

3618 Dixie Hwy

Louisville, KY 40216

Phone: (502) 585-4693

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LEXINGTON

211 E New Circle Rd

Lexington, KY 40505

Phone: (859) 260-1722

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Tennessee Locations


NASHVILLE

446 James Robertson Pkwy #100

Nashville, TN 37219

Phone: (615) 255-9100

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MURFREESBORO

1501 Memorial Blvd

Murfreesboro, TN 37129

Phone: (615) 907-0687

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CLARKSVILLE

323 N Riverside Dr #100

Clarksville, TN 37040

Phone: (931) 546-7200

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COLUMBIA

622 W 7th St

Columbia, TN 38401

Phone: (931) 505-7040

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GALLATIN

126 W Eastland Ave

Gallatin, TN 37066

Phone: (615) 451-4288

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