How Long Do You Have to Report an Accident in Tennessee?

In the immediate aftermath of a car accident in Tennessee, the most immediate concern for most is accounting for injuries and property damages. However, Tennessee has mandatory accident reporting requirements, which naturally leads to the question: How long do you have to report an accident in Tennessee?

Tennessee Reporting Laws

Tennessee has a couple of reporting requirements that apply immediately after an accident and in the days following an accident. 

According to Tennessee Code 55-10-106, drivers must report accidents involving more than $50 in property, bodily injury, or death to the police immediately. The law does not specify a specific time limit, but it does require that drivers use the quickest means of communication to contact a local police department. Technically, the law does not require drivers to report all accidents, but the threshold for mandatory reporting is so low that almost all auto accidents in Tennessee require reporting. 

Tennessee Code 55-10-107 establishes additional reporting requirements for certain types of accidents. According to this law, motorists must make a written report to the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security within 20 days if the accident involved death, bodily injury, or more than $1,500 in property damage. 

Consequences for Failing to Report an Accident in Tennessee

If you fail to file a personal report after a motorcycle accident, the state may suspend your license and driving privileges. 

If you fail to stop and render aid after an accident involving bodily injury, death, or more than $1,500 in property damage, the state may charge you with a crime. Criminal charges for hit-and-run accidents in Tennessee are:

• Only property damage – Class C misdemeanor, up to $50 fine, and up to 30 days in prison. 
• Crash causing injuries – Class A misdemeanor, up to a $2,500 fine, up to 12 months in prison. 
• Crash causing fatality – Class E felony, between one and six years in prison, vehicular manslaughter charge. 

If you were drinking or under the influence of drugs when the accident happened, you may face additional civil and criminal penalties. 

When Do I Have to Report a Motorcycle Accident to My Insurance Company?

You will also need to report the accident to the insurance company so you can open a claim for financial compensation. The amount of time you have to notify depends on the specific insurance provider. Some companies will allow up to 30 days, while others may require notification in as little as 24 to 48 hours.

Regardless of how much time you have, filing a claim as early as possible is the best idea. The longer you wait, the harder it will be to recover adequate compensation. A motorcycle accident attorney from Law Tigers can kick-start the claims process to reduce the chances of settlement delays and denials.