When a crash leaves death and injury in its wake, many lives may be permanently impacted. People will either be left grieving or suffering from emotional and physical trauma. Sadly, three people were injured and one person died recently after a tragic car accident on U.S. Highway 231 in Tennessee. For those who were injured, life may never be the same.

The crash occurred on Dec. 28 as a Chevrolet Cruze was traveling westbound on Lamar Alexander Parkway in Blount County. Suddenly, a Chevrolet Astro pulled out right into its path. The impact from the crash sent both vehicles into the median. The 73-year-old driver of the Astro died at the scene.

Three occupants of the Cruze were injured. The 47-year-old driver and a 16-year-old passenger were flown to the University of Tennessee Medical Center. Another passenger, who was 18, was taken to the same hospital by ambulance. The nature of their injuries was not reported but were said to be serious. According to reports, the two injured passengers in the Cruze were not restrained, but air bags did deploy in the vehicle.

Deputies from the Blount County Sheriff’s Office are still investigating the details of the car accident. As the three survivors recover from their injuries, they are likely awaiting the results of the investigation to decide on their next steps. In Tennessee, they may be able to file a civil claim for personal injury against the decedent’s estate if the investigation shows that she acted in a negligent manner that led to the crash. Such a claim, if successful, may help compensate them for medical expenses resulting from the crash as well as give them the emotional closure they need to move forward with their recovery.

Source: ABC 6 WATE, 1 fatality in car accident on Lamar Alexander Pkwy, No author, Dec. 28, 2013