Anyone familiar with the roads of Tennessee knows that most of them include gorgeous vistas, and some can pose serious dangers to drivers and passengers. Drivers across the Volunteer State must stay vigilant to avoid collisions.

A 78-year-old motorist from Loudon was killed in a car accident in Maryville recently. The accident happened on U.S. Route 411 at Calderwood Highway when the victim turned his convertible to make a left turn. A van owned by the University of Tennessee pulled in front of the car and pushing it into a pickup truck stopped at the traffic light.

The 21-year-old driver of the van stopped to assist at the scene of the three-vehicle accident, which killed one driver and injured another. None of the van’s eight occupants were injured. Police do not currently believe drugs or alcohol were involved, although blood tests of the involved drivers are pending.

All drivers were wearing seat belts, which reduce the chances of injury and death in a car accident. The deceased driver had to be extricated from his car by emergency personnel. This is the latest of several serious accidents in Tennessee’s Blount County. Earlier this year, a motorcyclist lost his life and several others were hurt in various crashes.

Victims of serious car accidents and the survivors of those who died in traffic fatalities may consider filing claims for financial damages to help get past the tragic and unexpected crash. An attorney may be a defendant’s best ally in the search for reimbursement of medical expenses as well as possible compensation for pain and emotional distress.