Car accidents are often sudden, traumatic events that leave you feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about what to do next. In the chaos that follows a collision, it’s easy to feel lost—especially when you’re dealing with injuries, vehicle damage, and insurance companies all at once.
Understanding the proper steps to take immediately after a car accident in Murfreesboro can protect your health, your legal rights, and your financial future. Navigating the aftermath becomes even much easier when you have a clear plan and local expertise on your side.
Our Murfreesboro car accident lawyers have helped countless residents in Rutherford County through these difficult times. Our deep knowledge of local laws and procedures allows us to guide you step-by-step, ensuring you don’t miss any critical actions that could affect your claim.
Whether you’re dealing with minor injuries or more serious consequences of a car accident in Murfreesboro, having trusted legal support early on can provide peace of mind and a stronger path forward.
Step 1 – Ensure Safety and Check for Injuries
Ensuring everyone’s safety should be your top priority after any accident. Start by checking yourself and your passengers for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 911 immediately. Even if injuries seem minor, it’s essential to err on the side of caution—some injuries aren’t immediately obvious and can worsen if untreated.
If you’re physically able and it’s safe to do so, move your vehicle out of traffic to the side of the road or a nearby parking lot. This helps reduce the risk of further accidents. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers. If the vehicle is too damaged to move or someone is seriously injured, stay inside with your seatbelt on until help arrives.
Remember, Tennessee law requires you to report any accident that results in injury, death, or property damage. Even for a minor car accident in Murfreesboro, calling 911 ensures that emergency services are dispatched and that an official record is created. This step not only helps protect everyone involved but also preserves important evidence for your case.
Step 2 – Contact the Police and File a Report
Tennessee law requires that you report any motor vehicle accident involving injury, death, or property damage exceeding $1,500. Failure to do so can lead to criminal penalties, including fines, license suspension, or even misdemeanor charges under state law (§55-10-106, Tennessee Code).
When law enforcement arrives, remain calm, respectful, and cooperative. Provide clear, factual information without guessing, speculating, or admitting fault. Remember, your statements will be included in the official accident report and may influence insurance outcomes or future legal proceedings.
In Murfreesboro, you can file a report at the scene, online, by phone, or in person at the Murfreesboro Police Department headquarters. For non-emergency situations, the department’s TeleServe Section can help file certain types of reports remotely.
For accidents on major roads like I-24 or Medical Center Parkway, the Murfreesboro Police Department or the Tennessee Highway Patrol may respond. Reports are typically available within three days and can be requested online or at the police department. Having a police report helps establish the facts and can be invaluable if there is a dispute about what happened.
Step 3 – Gather Information at the Scene
This step is often forgotten about, but it is an important one to do after any car accident in Murfreesboro. While waiting for police, collect as much information as possible.
This includes:
- Names and contact details of all drivers and passengers
- Insurance information for all involved vehicles
- License plate numbers
- Make, model, and color of all vehicles
- Names and contact details of any witnesses
Also, if possible, take photos and videos of vehicle damage (all sides), road conditions, traffic signs and signals, injuries (if visible), and the overall scene, including landmarks and road names (e.g., Medical Center Pkwy, I-24)
Documenting these details can make a significant difference in your claim. Don’t rely solely on your memory—use your phone to capture everything following a car accident in Murfreesboro.
Step 4 – Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Even if you feel fine, it is crucial that visit a doctor as soon as possible after a car accident in Murfreesboro. Some injuries, like concussions or soft-tissue damage, may not show symptoms right away. Prompt medical attention helps to ensure that your health is protected and creates a record linking your injuries to the accident.
Be sure to keep copies of all medical records, bills, prescriptions, and discharge instructions. These documents play a critical role in demonstrating the extent of your injuries, the treatment you received, and the financial impact of the accident—key elements in any insurance or legal claim.
Step 5 – Notify Your Insurance Company
After a car accident in Murfreesboro, it’s important to contact your insurance company as soon as possible—ideally within 24 hours.
When speaking with your insurer:
- Stick to the facts—describe what happened without speculation.
- Don’t admit fault or downplay your injuries.
- Provide requested documentation, such as the police report and photos.
- Be cautious with recorded statements; you are not required to provide one immediately.
Timely communication with your insurer not only helps your claim move forward smoothly, but also prevents potential issues like denial of coverage due to missed deadlines.
Step 6 – Avoid Talking to the Other Driver’s Insurance Without Legal Advice
Soon after a car accident in Murfreesboro, you may be contacted by the other driver’s insurance company. While the conversation may seem routine, their primary goal is to protect their bottom line—not your best interests. Anything you say can be used to reduce or deny your claim.
Common tactics they use include:
- Asking leading questions to get you to admit partial fault
- Requesting recorded statements before you’ve spoken to a lawyer
- Offering quick settlements that may not cover your full losses
You are not required to speak with the other driver’s insurer. Politely decline and consult with a car accident lawyer first. We can help you understand your rights and avoid costly mistakes.
Step 7 – Contact a Murfreesboro Car Accident Lawyer
Even though not every accident requires legal representation, you should speak with a lawyer if you’ve been injured, lost income, or are facing major vehicle repairs. Early legal guidance can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case—especially when dealing with insurance companies that may undervalue your claim.
A local attorney offers key advantages: They’re familiar with Murfreesboro’s court system, understand how local insurers operate, and often have working relationships with nearby medical providers. This local insight can help your case move more efficiently—and increase your chances of a favorable outcome.
Here’s how we help support your case:
- Evidence preservation – We act quickly to secure critical evidence, including surveillance footage, witness statements, and accident reports—before they’re lost or overwritten.
- Insurance negotiation – We handle all communication with insurers, working to maximize your compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.
- Legal protection – From filing deadlines to courtroom representation, we ensure your rights are safeguarded at every stage.
It’s vital to contact a personal injury lawyer immediately following a car accident in Murfreesboro.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding these common missteps after a car accident in Murfreesboro can protect your legal rights and strengthen your claim:
- Leaving the scene – In Tennessee, leaving the scene of an accident is a criminal offense that can lead to fines, license suspension, or even jail time. Always remain at the scene until authorities arrive.
- Failing to document the accident – Skipping photos, witness statements, or not obtaining a police report can significantly weaken your case. Thorough documentation is essential.
- Posting on social media – Insurers and defense attorneys often monitor social media. Even innocent posts can be misinterpreted and used to challenge your injuries or your version of events.
- Accepting a quick settlement – Early offers from insurance companies are often far lower than what your claim is truly worth. Always consult a lawyer before agreeing to any payout.
Being aware of these pitfalls, and taking the right steps early, can make a major difference in your recovery and the compensation you receive.
Protect Your Rights After a Car Accident in Murfreesboro
Experiencing a car accident can be a stressful and disruptive event, however, knowing the right steps to take can make a significant difference in your recovery and legal outcome.
Remember, the aftermath of a car accident in Murfreesboro isn’t just about what happens at the scene—it’s about how you navigate the days and weeks that follow. Avoid common mistakes like leaving the scene, failing to document details, or rushing to accept quick settlements without legal advice. Instead, take control by staying informed and seeking professional guidance.
At Murfreesboro Car Accident Lawyer, we are dedicated to advocating for accident victims in Rutherford County. We understand the local legal landscape and work tirelessly to secure the compensation you deserve.
Injured in a Murfreesboro crash? Call Murfreesboro Car Accident Lawyer today at (864) 335-9991 for a free, no-obligation consultation. Let us help you protect your rights and move forward with confidence. Your recovery and peace of mind are our top priorities.
