East Ridge, TN (April 19, 2025) – A multi-vehicle crash disrupted traffic on Interstate 24 westbound near the I-75 interchange early Wednesday morning, leading to injuries and major congestion.

The collision occurred at approximately 8:40 a.m. on April 16. According to information from the Tennessee Department of Transportation, the crash took place near Exit 185 in East Ridge and involved several vehicles. The accident caused significant delays for westbound commuters, as emergency personnel responded to the scene to assist the victims and clear the roadway.

At least one person sustained injuries in the crash and was transported to a local hospital for treatment. The exact number of vehicles involved has not yet been confirmed, but traffic cameras and reports from the scene show multiple damaged cars blocking lanes. First responders worked swiftly to assess those involved and manage the scene, but extended lane closures created backups along both I-24 and the nearby I-75 junction. Authorities are currently investigating the cause of the crash. Drivers were urged to avoid the area while cleanup and traffic management continued throughout the morning. It remains unclear whether weather or mechanical failure played a role in the accident.

We hope those injured in this accident recover quickly.

Car Accidents in Tennessee

Car crashes in Tennessee occur daily, with thousands of people suffering injuries every year. In 2023 alone, the state saw over 170,000 reported collisions, according to state transportation data. Urban areas, especially those near busy interstates like I-24 and I-75, are often hotspots for multi-vehicle crashes, particularly during morning and evening rush hours. Many of these accidents are preventable, caused by speeding, distracted driving, or following too closely.

Drivers face a variety of injuries and challenges after collisions. Below are common injuries associated with Tennessee traffic accidents:

• Whiplash and Neck Injuries: Rear-end and chain-reaction crashes often result in soft tissue damage. Whiplash may seem minor at first but can lead to chronic pain, reduced mobility, and long-term therapy needs.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: Collisions at high speeds or involving large vehicles can cause vertebral damage or spinal cord trauma. Victims may suffer partial or complete paralysis, requiring extensive rehabilitation.
• Broken Bones: From arm fractures to more serious pelvic or rib breaks, broken bones are common in multi-car accidents. Recovery can take months and may involve surgery or physical therapy.
• Head Injuries: Concussions and more serious traumatic brain injuries are often reported, especially when airbags deploy or a passenger strikes the dashboard. These injuries can result in cognitive and emotional complications.
• Internal Injuries: Blunt force trauma in a crash can lead to internal bleeding or organ damage, which may not be immediately noticeable. Victims often need emergency surgery and hospitalization.

If you've been hurt in a Tennessee car crash, it's critical to speak with a legal advocate as soon as possible. Call our East Ridge car accident attorney at DZ Law today. Timing is crucial when building a strong claim, as evidence can disappear quickly and insurance companies may push for a fast, undervalued settlement. Getting help right away can make all the difference in your recovery and the outcome of your case.

At DZ Law, we offer free consultations to those injured in car accidents. Our East Ridge legal team understands how overwhelming this process can be. That's why we walk each client through their case with clarity and care. We'll investigate the crash thoroughly, communicate with insurers on your behalf, and fight for the compensation you need. Whether you're dealing with medical bills, missed work, or pain from the accident, we're here to support you every step of the way. Call us at 865-259-0020 to get started with your free case review. You don't have to go through this alone. Let us help you move forward with confidence and peace of mind.

Notes: This post was compiled using information from secondary sources, including but not limited to local news outlets, state and local police reports, social media, and eyewitness accounts related to serious accidents in Eastern Tennessee. While DZ Law strives to provide accurate and up-to-date information, we have not independently verified all details of this incident. If you believe any information in this post is inaccurate, please contact us immediately so we can make corrections and ensure accuracy. Additionally, we are happy to honor requests to remove this post if necessary.

Disclaimers: This accident update is provided solely for informational purposes and is not intended as a solicitation for business. If you have been injured in an accident, seek medical attention immediately. Please note that the content in this post should not be interpreted as medical or legal advice. Additionally, the image accompanying this post is for illustrative purposes only and does not depict the actual scene of the accident described.