How long do I have to file a personal injury claim in Tennessee?

In Tennessee, the statute of limitations for most personal injury claims is 1 year. You must file your lawsuit within 1 year of the date of injury. Missing this deadline typically bars you from recovering any compensation.

Are there damage caps in Tennessee personal injury cases?

In Tennessee: $750K non-economic; $1M for catastrophic injury. These caps may affect how much you can recover, particularly for non-economic damages like pain and suffering.

What is the average personal injury settlement in Tennessee?

Average personal injury settlements in Tennessee range from approximately $48,000–$195,000 depending on injury type, liability, insurance coverage, and other case-specific factors.

Tennessee Personal Injury Law — Statute of Limitations, Fault Rules & More

Q: What is the fault system in Tennessee?

Tennessee uses Modified comparative fault (50% bar). Your compensation is reduced by your percentage of fault in causing the accident.

1 year Filing deadline

50% bar Fault system

$48,000 Avg settlement (low)

5 Common case types

Overview of Personal Injury Law in Tennessee

Tennessee has a short 1-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims and caps non-economic damages at $750,000 ($1 million for catastrophic injuries). The state uses a modified comparative fault system with a 50% threshold.

This guide covers the most important rules for personal injury claims in Tennessee, including the statute of limitations, comparative fault rules, damages caps, and common case types. Laws can change — always verify with a licensed Tennessee attorney for your specific situation.

Key Tennessee Personal Injury Statutes

Tenn. Code § 28-3-104 (SOL — 1 year)

Tenn. Code § 29-11-103 (comparative fault)

Tenn. Code § 29-11-107 (damages cap)

Most Common Personal Injury Cases in Tennessee

Car Accidents

Medical Malpractice

Slip & Fall

Product Liability

Workplace Injury

Tennessee Damages Caps & Average Settlements

Damages Rule $750K non-economic; $1M for catastrophic injury

Average Settlement $48,000–$195,000

Fault System Modified comparative fault (50% bar)

Settlement amounts vary significantly based on injury severity, liability clarity, insurance policy limits, and jurisdiction within Tennessee.

Frequently Asked Questions — Tennessee Injury Law

How long do I have to file a claim in Tennessee?

In Tennessee, you generally have 1 year to file a personal injury lawsuit from the date of injury. Key statute: Tenn. Code § 28-3-104.

Exceptions may apply for minors, government entity cases, or when the injury was not immediately discovered. Consult a Tennessee attorney to confirm your deadline.

What is Tennessee's fault system?

Tennessee uses Modified comparative fault (50% bar). Your compensation is reduced by your percentage of fault. If you are 50% or more at fault, you cannot recover anything.

Are there damage caps in Tennessee?

Tennessee damage rules: $750K non-economic; $1M for catastrophic injury. These limits can significantly affect cases involving pain and suffering and other non-economic losses. Economic damages like medical bills and lost wages are typically not capped.

What is the average settlement in Tennessee?

Personal injury settlements in Tennessee average approximately $48,000–$195,000. Catastrophic injuries, wrongful death, and medical malpractice cases typically settle for significantly higher amounts.

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Injured in Tennessee? Get Help Now.

Personal injury laws in Tennessee can be complex and deadlines are strict. A qualified Tennessee personal injury attorney can evaluate your case for free — with no upfront costs.

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⚠ Disclaimer: This page is for informational purposes only. Laws change and specifics vary by case. Always consult a licensed Tennessee attorney for legal advice.