Keeton Law Firm, PLLC Keeton Law Firm, PLLC 2026-10-01T15:57:26Z https://www.keetonlawfirm.com/feed/atom/ WordPress /wp-content/uploads/sites/1605338/2020/06/cropped-favicon-32x32.jpg On Behalf of Keeton Law Firm, PLLC <![CDATA[Are E-bikes and scooters creating new crash risks for drivers?]]> https://www.keetonlawfirm.com/?p=49145 2026-10-01T15:57:26Z 2026-10-01T15:57:26Z driving through downtown or on a quiet neighborhood street, it is likely you will come across an E-bike or scooter. While these micro-mobility devices offer convenient alternatives to traditional vehicles, they have also introduced new safety challenges on our roadways. Drivers across the country are finding themselves having to slam on the brakes or swerve to avoid colliding with a crossing E-bike or scooter rider.

New hazards drivers should recognize

The introduction of these devices has created several risks for riders and drivers. Some of the most common include:
  • E-bikes and scooters can accelerate quickly and reach speeds up to 20 mph or more, making their movements less predictable than traditional bicycles
  • Riders often lack proper safety equipment such as helmets and reflective clothing, making them harder to see, especially at night
  • Many riders are inexperienced and may not follow traffic laws or signals consistently
  • These devices are nearly silent, providing no auditory warning to drivers during lane changes or turns
Understanding these unique characteristics can help drivers anticipate potential conflicts and react appropriately. The key is recognizing that e-bike and scooter riders may behave differently than either pedestrians or traditional cyclists.

Protecting yourself and others on the road

Drivers can take several proactive steps to reduce collision risks with micro-mobility users:
  • Check blind spots carefully before turning, as e-bikes and scooters can appear suddenly in spaces where you might not expect them
  • Increase following distance when traveling behind these devices to allow for sudden stops or swerves
  • Exercise extra caution in bike lanes and at intersections where riders may cross your path unexpectedly
  • Avoid distracted driving, as the unpredictable nature of e-bike and scooter traffic demands full attention
These precautions become especially important during peak commuting hours and in areas with high concentrations of rental scooter stations.

Liability concerns

An accident between an E-bike or scooter and a vehicle can be catastrophic. Even when you believe a rider acted recklessly, liability in e-bike and scooter collisions rarely follows assumptions. Courts do not automatically assign fault to the rider just because they violated traffic rules or rode unsafely. Instead, investigators examine what you could have done to avoid the crash. Did you check your mirrors thoroughly? Were you speeding or distracted? Could you have braked sooner? If unable to defend your actions, the financial stakes are high. Riders can sue for lost wages, pain and suffering and permanent injuries. These claims can reach six or seven figures. Even a valid "the rider was being unsafe" defense may not necessarily protect your assets. It is wise to seek legal counsel to help protect your interests. You can also help build a strong case by documenting everything at the scene: take photos, collect witness contacts and file a police report. This evidence is helpful when the rider's attorney attempts to argue that you failed to yield or maintain proper lookout.

Moving forward

As e-bikes and scooters continue reshaping our streets, drivers must adapt their habits to protect themselves legally and financially. Remember that even when a rider appears at fault, you will need to demonstrate that you took every reasonable precaution to avoid the crash — your financial security depends on it.]]> On Behalf of Keeton Law Firm, PLLC <![CDATA[What time does your scheduled parenting time actually start?]]> https://www.keetonlawfirm.com/?p=49143 2026-09-28T15:44:13Z 2026-09-28T15:44:13Z Ambiguities in common rotating schedules Rotating patterns in court-ordered parenting plans like 5-2-2-5, 3-3-4-4 and week on/week off, can be confusing. They may identify the custody change day but often do not specify the start time. The key question is whether the schedule uses a fixed time or only the day itself. When a specific time is not clearly stated, coparents may interpret the same schedule differently, which can create confusion and conflict.

The school-day exchange pitfall

After school is often one of the biggest points of contention in child custody schedule disputes because it is often unclear exactly when the exchange is supposed to happen. Coparents may assume different meanings, including:
  • When the final bell rings
  • After the child gets off the bus
  • Once an after-school program ends
Vague wording in parenting plans can cause conflicts, especially when school closes for snow or holidays. Both parents should agree on whether the exchange happens in the morning or at the usual after-school time. The same problem can happen with activities that overlap both parents’ time. If a sports practice starts during one parent’s time and ends during the other’s, the schedule should clearly state how these handoffs will work.

Nonschool days and summer transitions

To avoid confusion, nonschool exchanges should use a designated default time for the following:
  • In-service days
  • Federal holidays
  • Other school closures
Camp and summer schedules should also state clearly whether exchanges occur at the camp location or at a parent’s residence, and identify who is responsible for pickup if camp ends early. Holiday time may also supersede regular parenting time, making clear rules essential to prevent disputes and ensure smooth transitions.

Why choosing a specific time is vital

Specificity is important because clear exchange times help avoid confusion and conflict. It is crucial for coparents to use exact times like 6:00 p.m. or 9:00 a.m. instead of vague terms like after dinner or tomorrow. A neutral exchange location, such as a local landmark, can also help keep handoffs calmer and more consistent.

Encouraging responsible parenting

Ambiguity can easily turn a parenting plan that works into one that creates ongoing tension. Coparents can reduce conflict by using mediation or legal change to add clear details. A family law attorney can help craft a schedule with clear boundaries that meet the family’s needs.]]> On Behalf of Keeton Law Firm, PLLC <![CDATA[Are you liable if your teenager causes an e-scooter crash?]]> https://www.keetonlawfirm.com/?p=49137 2026-07-17T11:44:04Z 2026-07-17T11:44:04Z Minors and liability in Tennessee Tennessee laws on personal injury adhere to a modified comparative fault system. If your minor child causes an e-scooter accident, they are liable. However, liability may shift to you depending on the nature of the crash and your teen’s access. According to Tennessee laws, a parent can be liable for a minor child’s activities that cause property damage or injuries. Under Tennessee statutory law, parental liability for a minor's willful misconduct is capped at $10,000, but you could face unlimited liability if a victim sues you directly for negligent supervision. If your child frequently gets into e-scooter accidents, you have the responsibility of controlling or curbing their behavior. Knowledge of a child’s tendency serves as grounds for negligence. Underage riders rarely have any independent financial assets to compensate for any injuries. If your teen’s actions affect someone, the victim may instead look to you to recover damages.

Parental negligence and family purpose

If you bought an e-scooter (or allowed your teen to drive one), a victim can sue you for negligent entrustment. Many Tennessee municipalities prohibit anyone under a certain age (often 16) from operating e-scooters on public roads and roadways. If your teen broke state or municipal age limits, you may be legally responsible. Tennessee also enforces the Family Purpose Doctrine. Under this doctrine, the head of the house is liable for any accidents stemming from family members using a family vehicle. A plaintiff may argue that your teenager’s scooter functions as a “family vehicle” and extend liability to you.

Defending yourself in liability cases

Parents facing lawsuits over their teenager’s e-scooter accident may not expect the financial costs of shouldering liability. Insurance policies typically do not cover e-scooter accidents. You may need to pay expenses incurred for legal defense or compensation out-of-pocket. If you are facing a similar liability case, consider reaching out to competent legal representatives to help you decide your best course of action.]]> On Behalf of Keeton Law Firm, PLLC <![CDATA[5 rental car coverage details to check before your summer travel]]> https://www.keetonlawfirm.com/?p=49136 2026-06-08T12:58:39Z 2026-06-08T12:58:39Z Checklist for your summer rental vehicle insurance You might assume a rental company automatically provides all the protection you need. In reality, coverage often comes from several sources. Taking a few minutes to review those protections can make a significant difference. Before your trip, consider checking the following:
  • Your personal auto policy: Your own policy often extends some protection to a rental vehicle. Check the policy limits, deductibles and exclusions before your trip.
  • Credit card rental benefits: Some credit cards offer rental car protection when you use the card to pay for the rental. In some cases, the coverage can pay certain losses directly. In others, it may only apply after your auto policy responds.
  • Applicable liability coverage limits: Liability coverage matters if another person suffers injuries or property damage. In Tennessee, drivers must carry a minimum coverage of $25,000 per person for one person’s injury or death, $50,000 for total injuries or deaths and $25,000 for property damage.
  • Coverage for damage to the rental vehicle: Ask who pays if a crash, theft or vandalism damages the rental car. This can help you decide if you need added protection at the counter.
  • Coverage rules for additional drivers: Coverage rules often change when someone else drives the vehicle. Make sure each planned driver appears on the rental agreement.
These protections function collectively. Overlooking a single detail could leave you with substantial out-of-pocket expenses after a collision.

What can happen after a rental car accident?

Even careful drivers may face problems on the road. When an accident occurs in a rental car, determining which coverage applies can be more complicated than expected. Questions may arise about how different forms of protection work together. If a crash leads to major losses or a personal injury dispute, legal guidance can help identify coverage gaps that may affect your claim. An attorney can also review the rental agreement and available sources of recovery.]]> On Behalf of Keeton Law Firm, PLLC <![CDATA[Why you should not wait to file your injury claim in Tennessee]]> https://www.keetonlawfirm.com/?p=49113 2026-04-14T12:46:28Z 2026-04-14T12:46:28Z If an accident recently hurt you, you may assume you have plenty of time to evaluate your options. In fact, many people believe they have two or three years to file a personal injury claim. However, in Tennessee, that assumption could cost you your case entirely.

What is the statute of limitations?

Think of the statute of limitations as a strict legal clock that starts ticking the moment your injury occurs. It determines how long you have to file a lawsuit and seek justice for your losses. Once that clock runs out, Tennessee courts will almost always throw out your claim. It does not matter how significant your injuries are or how obvious the other party's liability may be. Missing the deadline means forfeiting your right to seek compensation.

How long is the Tennessee statute of limitations?

In line with this, Tennessee law allows personal injury victims just a year from the day of the accident  to take legal action. Many other states usually allow two or three years, which often leaves Tennessee residents unprepared. Hence, if you recently relocated from another state or simply assumed the deadline was longer, you may already be facing a diminishing window. Thus, understanding this deadline is the first step toward protecting your rights.

Why waiting could cost you your case

Now that you know how tight Tennessee's deadline is, it is critical to recognize that time does not just affect your legal filing. It can also undermine the strength of your case. Here are four key reasons why waiting jeopardizes your claim:
  • Evidence disappears: Skid marks fade, businesses overwrite surveillance footage and important physical details vanish, making it harder to prove what happened.
  • Witness memory fades: People forget key details or relocate over time and their accounts become less reliable the longer you wait.
  • The hard bar applies: If you allow the one-year window to close by even one day, the court will likely throw out your claim, regardless of the extent of your injuries.
  • Insurance companies use it against you: Adjusters know when your deadline is approaching and may offer you a lower settlement, calculating that you will accept it out of desperation.
Each of these risks grows the longer you wait. Therefore, taking action early gives you the best chance of establishing a compelling case. 

Protect your claim before your time runs out

You deserve to know your options and make informed decisions about your future. The sooner you understand where your case stands, the better positioned you are to secure the compensation you deserve. Taking that first step toward gaining clarity is not just a smart move. It is the most important one you can make for yourself and your recovery.]]> On Behalf of Keeton Law Firm, PLLC <![CDATA[How to protect your rights after a Coffee County motorcycle crash?]]> https://www.keetonlawfirm.com/?p=49097 2026-05-28T19:20:46Z 2026-01-28T16:10:22Z The moments following a motorcycle wreck in Manchester or Tullahoma are a blur of adrenaline and confusion. Rebuilding your life after that is often a full-time job. Dealing with aggressive adjusters and complex legal filings should not be part of your recovery process. Understanding the specific legal procedures in Coffee County lets you shift the burden of proof and focus on getting back on the road.

Take action at the scene

Evidence disappears quickly after a collision on busy roads in Tennessee. Consider the following actions:
  • Call 911 immediately: A police report provides an official record of the event.
  • Take photos: Capture vehicle damage, skid marks, and road conditions.
  • Identify witnesses: Collect names and phone numbers of people who saw the crash.
  • Seek medical care: Visit an urgent care or ER regardless of whether you feel fine, as many injuries show symptoms days later.
  • Avoid admitting fault: Do not apologize or say you "didn't see" the other driver.
Insurance companies often use your early statements against you during settlement talks. Prompt medical records can prove the accident caused your injuries rather than a pre-existing condition.
Injured in a car, motorcycle, or truck accident? Put experience that includes insurance defense insight on your side. [nap_names id="FIRM-NAME-1"] has served Middle Tennessee since 2006 and is trusted with 500+ 5-star reviews. Call [nap_phone id="LOCAL-CT-NUMBER-1"] for a FREE consultation.

Understand Tennessee fault laws

Tennessee uses an at-fault insurance system, meaning the driver who caused the crash must pay for your damages. You need to show the other driver acted negligently to recover compensation. The state also uses a system called modified comparative fault to determine compensation in personal injury cases. This rule allows you to recover money as long as your fault remains below 50%. If a jury decides you carry 20% of the blame for the wreck, the court reduces your total award by 20%. For example, a $100,000 award becomes $80,000. Protecting your rights means ensuring the other driver's insurance company does not unfairly shift the blame onto you.

Act before time runs out

Time is a strict factor in Tennessee motorcycle accident cases. You have a very limited window to take legal action before you lose your right to sue. The state generally allows only one year from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit for personal injuries. Missing this deadline permanently bars you from seeking damages in court.  One year passes quickly when you are busy with surgeries, physical therapy, and hospital stays. Starting the process early ensures you and the legal support you secured can find witnesses and preserve evidence before it disappears.]]> On Behalf of Keeton Law Firm, PLLC <![CDATA[The value of local help after Tennessee tractor trailer accidents]]> https://www.keetonlawfirm.com/?p=49068 2026-05-28T19:17:37Z 2025-12-05T17:14:49Z Current fatal truck accident statistics remain consistent with past years The state keeps comprehensive statistics for the number of truck accidents. These are updated frequently based on how many accidents involving these vehicles happen and fatalities for all types of vehicles. Overall, the number of large truck accidents is approaching 4,000. Of course, these numbers are constantly changing with collisions happening frequently, particularly in the busier times of year when more vehicles will be on the road and there is a spike of delivery trucks. More than 25% have happened on interstate roads. Since tractor trailers travel to and through the state, they will use I-40, which connects Memphis and Nashville. They also use state roads such as SR 111. Drivers are often at fault for the accidents by behaving recklessly and irresponsibly. For example, being on the road for extended periods can lead to a false sense of security in being able to multitask and use their cellphones or other devices when behind the wheel. Distracted driving is a major catalyst for accidents. Truckers are prone to staying on the road past their physical limits, leading to drowsy driving. They might use illegal substances, misuse legal substances, drive aggressively, drive beyond the speed limit, or there could be something technically wrong with the truck itself. These factors need to be investigated and, if proof of their behavior is found, it can be vital to a successful attempt to pursue compensation.
Injured in a car, motorcycle, or tractor-trailer accident? Put experience that includes insurance defense insight on your side. [nap_names id="FIRM-NAME-1"] has served Middle Tennessee since 2006 and is trusted with 500+ 5-star reviews. Call [nap_phone id="LOCAL-CT-NUMBER-1"] for a FREE consultation.

Local professionals will know the facts about Tennessee roads

The state tries to regulate trucks to enhance safety with various restrictions including weight limits, size limits, and restricted zones where trucks are not allowed. There are also inspection sites and weigh stations to ensure the trucks comply with the rules. Trucks carrying hazardous material are subject to greater scrutiny. Given the financial and personal ramifications from a tractor-trailer accident, people who are wondering how they will move forward need to have assistance from those who understand the Tennessee roads. In addition to driver behavior, that includes a trucker who was violating state rules. Having help from qualified professionals who are aware of the statistics, recognize the causes of truck crashes, and have knowledge of the state roads can be essential to a claim.]]> On Behalf of Keeton Law Firm, PLLC <![CDATA[The most dangerous roads and highways in Tennessee]]> https://www.keetonlawfirm.com/?p=49067 2025-11-28T20:01:38Z 2025-11-28T20:01:38Z Tennessee’s highways link mountain trails, music venues and farm towns. They also witness thousands of crashes every year. When you drive on Interstate 40 through Memphis or a rural two-lane near Tullahoma, you share pavement with hurried commuters, heavy trucks and distracted tourists. Fortunately, knowing where risk concentrates can help you plan a safer trip.

Urban hot spots: Nashville, Memphis and Knoxville

According to updated crash data, three of the major cities in Tennessee: Nashville, Memphis and Knoxville act as crash hot spots all year round. This phenomenon mainly affects interstates, where high speeds mean that there’s little room to recover from simple mistakes. Some of the most dangerous highways in these areas include:
  • Interstate 24, Nashville. From the Spring Street interchange southeast toward Mill Creek, this 10-mile corridor recorded 35 fatal crashes between 2019 and 2023. Morning and evening backups, lane changes for the airport exits and a steady flow of tractor-trailers create a volatile blend.
  • Interstate 65, Nashville. The downtown span from Skyline Medical Center to Vanderbilt University logged 16 deaths in the same five-year window. Tall concrete walls and short entrance ramps force sudden decisions.
  • Interstate 40, Memphis. Westbound freight meets eastbound local traffic near the river, putting drivers seconds from disaster if someone drifts out of a lane. A separate I-40 segment through Downtown Nashville also ranked in the top five for fatalities, proving that high speed plus city density is a deadly formula.
  • Interstate 240, Memphis and Interstate 40, Knoxville round out the list. Sharp curves on I-240 and heavy tourism traffic on I-40 near Knoxville both raise collision odds.

Mountain passes and rural risks

Away from the cities, narrow shoulders and limited lighting increase crash severity. The Tennessee Highway Patrol reports that 77 percent of deer collisions happen between 5 p.m. and 7 a.m and rural drivers struck deer 1.4 times more often than urban drivers. Large-truck wrecks are also common beyond city limits; one in four truck crashes occurs on an interstate slicing through farmland or forest, where emergency response takes longer.

Risky driver behavior can turn any road deadly

Below is a brief snapshot of statewide crash factors in 2023. Any of these can turn a routine drive into an emergency, whether you are on I-24 or a county route.
  • Distracted driving: 20,781 crashes, with cell phones leading the list.
  • Impaired driving: 7,565 crashes, 15 times more likely to be fatal than sober crashes.
  • Speeding: 6,535 crashes, 81 percent were not on an interstate and they are five times more likely to be fatal.
  • Unbelted occupants: Rural crashes were twice as likely to involve someone without a seat belt, and ejections were 165 times more likely to end in death.
No matter your route, if you are driving in Nashville, it is important to prevent these risk factors. When on the roads, stay away from social media, avoid alcohol, stick to the speed limits and always ensure that everyone in the car is wearing a seatbelt. These measures can make a difference in an emergency and save lives. 

Staying safer on Tennessee asphalt

As a Tennessee driver, you should always plan for congestion. If you must cross Nashville at rush hour, give yourself extra time so a slowdown does not push you to weave lanes. In rural areas scan tree lines at dusk for wildlife and keep high beams on when legal.  It is also important to maintain a safe gap behind trucks on all roads because their tires hide gravel and debris that crack windshields and trigger sudden swerves. Never assume the vehicle ahead will stay in its lane; the top driver error statewide remains failure to keep in the proper lane.

Prevention is not always enough

Even if you follow all recommendations and drive safely on the most dangerous roads of our state, another driver can cause an accident. That is why all drivers must know what to do in case of an accident. The list below can help you protect your rights and prioritize your safety in the event of a crash:
  • Check for injuries and call 911.
  • Exchange information but avoid discussing fault at the scene.
  • Photograph damage, skid marks and landmarks because road signs and tire tracks can vanish within hours.
  • Seek medical care even if your pain feels minor; many injuries surface days later.
  • Speak with a personal injury attorney who understands Tennessee courts and insurance tactics.
Tennessee holds beauty at every mile marker, yet some roads demand added caution. Whether you travel the busy loops of Memphis, the rolling lanes of Interstate 24 or a quiet back road near your home, remember that speed, distraction and impairment cause most tragedies. Drive alert, buckle up and know that if someone else’s careless act harms you, help stands ready to fight for the compensation you deserve.]]> On Behalf of Keeton Law Firm, PLLC <![CDATA[First-time DUI in Tennessee: Penalties you can face]]> https://www.keetonlawfirm.com/?p=48979 2025-10-24T05:51:56Z 2025-10-24T05:51:56Z A first DUI charge in Tennessee can affect your license, your wallet and your record. Knowing the core penalties helps you plan your next steps and avoid surprises.

What a first DUI can include

For a first conviction, you may face jail time, fines and a one-year license suspension. Tennessee also uses ignition interlock and education requirements to reduce repeat offenses.  According to Tennessee Code § 55-10-401, once the state proves you were “under the influence,” first-offense sentencing may include these baseline penalties. You could face the following on a first conviction:
  • Jail time: From 48 hours up to 11 months 29 days.
  • Higher BAC: A BAC of 0.20% or more triggers 7 consecutive days.
  • License suspension: One year.
  • Fines: $350 to $1,500.
  • Ignition interlock device: At least 365 days unless the court waives it.
These penalties can vary based on your facts and any court orders.

Mandatory and potential add-ons

Courts use T.C.A. § 55-10-401’s definition as the starting point then tailor conditions that promote safety and rehabilitation in your case. Courts often add requirements that affect your schedule and costs:
  • Education or panels: DUI school or a victim impact panel.
  • Fees: $100 alcohol and drug addiction fee.
  • Probation: Up to 11 months 29 days, minus jail time.
  • Community work: Court-ordered service.
  • Monitoring or treatment: Alcohol monitoring or counseling.
  • Restitution: Payment to anyone who suffered injury or loss.
You may also face a separate implied consent issue if you refused testing. Tennessee sets a low tolerance for impaired driving to deter crashes and repeat offenses. Mandatory jail time, license loss and interlock can reduce reoffending. A higher BAC floor for extra jail time signals increased risk so courts may add conditions that focus on safety and rehabilitation.

Special circumstances and options

Vehicle forfeiture may occur in unusual aggravated cases. Some first offenders might access diversion or alternative sentencing focused on treatment. Eligibility depends on your history, BAC and case facts. You may have defenses, eligibility for a restricted license or ways to limit penalties. A Tennessee attorney can review your stop, testing and deadlines so you can protect your license and record.]]> On Behalf of Keeton Law Firm, PLLC <![CDATA[How to file for divorce in Coffee County, Tennessee]]> https://www.keetonlawfirm.com/?p=48980 2025-10-21T05:32:14Z 2025-10-21T05:32:14Z Filing for divorce in Coffee County follows statewide Tennessee rules but local procedure can affect timing and paperwork. Knowing each step may help you avoid delays and reduce stress.

Starting your divorce case

The divorce process begins when one spouse, known as the plaintiff, files a Complaint for Divorce with a court clerk. The complaint states the legal grounds for divorce and lists requests for property division, custody and support. After filing, the plaintiff must ensure that the court clerk issues a summons and that both the complaint and summons are formally served on the other spouse. A sheriff, private process server or certified mail can complete the service. Once served, the responding spouse may file an answer or a counter-complaint to address the claims.

Understanding grounds for divorce

Grounds are the legal reasons a judge may grant your divorce under Tennessee Code § 36-4-101. You must show that your case fits one of the categories below. No-fault grounds allow you to end the marriage without proving misconduct. You still must resolve all property and parenting issues for court approval. The two no-fault grounds are:
  • Irreconcilable differences: Both spouses agree the marriage cannot continue.
  • Living apart for two years: The spouses lived separately for two years and have no minor children.
On the other hand, fault-based grounds require proof of misconduct which can influence alimony or other outcomes. Common fault-based grounds include:
  • Adultery
  • Habitual drunkenness or drug use
  • Inappropriate marital conduct or cruelty
  • Abandonment for one year
  • Refusal to move to Tennessee for two years
  • Conviction of a felony
Understanding which grounds apply to your situation helps you choose the right filing approach and anticipate how the court may view your case.

Finalizing the divorce

Most cases end in settlement. You submit a Marital Dissolution Agreement and, if applicable, a Permanent Parenting Plan for the judge’s review. If you cannot agree, a judge decides contested issues after a trial. Divorce in Tennessee involves several procedural steps that can be confusing without guidance. Local court rules and required forms may vary so it’s wise to confirm details with the Coffee County Clerk’s Office. To understand how Tennessee divorce laws apply to your situation and protect your rights, consider consulting a family law attorney.]]>