East Ridge, TN (May 14, 2025) – A crash on Sunday evening, May 11, claimed two lives and left several others seriously hurt on Interstate 75 in East Ridge.

The crash occurred when a tractor-trailer collided with a Jeep carrying five individuals. According to East Ridge Police Chief Clint Uselton, 23-year-old Lane Smith and 61-year-old David “Jeff” Huggins were killed in the accident. Smith was driving the Jeep, which had just left the D-Force Dance Studio along with his partner, Brynlee White, and their three children, when the crash occurred.

All five occupants of the Jeep were seriously injured. Brynlee White and the children are currently being treated in the intensive care unit. Emergency medical services rushed to assist the injured and transport them to nearby hospitals for critical care. The driver of the tractor-trailer is now facing charges, though the specific allegations have not been publicly detailed at this time.

The collision caused a significant fire, and authorities closed multiple lanes of Interstate 75 for several hours while fire crews extinguished the flames and investigators examined the scene. Traffic was rerouted, and delays were reported throughout the evening. Investigators are continuing to review all factors that may have led to the deadly incident. Additional updates on the victims' conditions are expected as more information becomes available.

We hope those injured in this accident recover quickly.

Tractor-Trailer Accidents in Tennessee

Tennessee continues to witness a concerning number of tractor-trailer accidents, with the Tennessee Department of Safety reporting hundreds of large truck-related fatalities each year. These incidents are particularly dangerous due to the size and weight of commercial vehicles, often resulting in severe injuries or loss of life.

Understanding the common causes behind these accidents can help raise awareness and improve safety:

• Driver Fatigue: Truck drivers often work long hours. Fatigue can significantly impair reaction times, judgment, and decision-making abilities, increasing the risk of collisions.
• Mechanical Failures: Faulty brakes, worn tires, and other mechanical issues can cause trucks to become uncontrollable. Regular maintenance is essential, but not always performed diligently.
• Distracted Driving: Like all motorists, truck drivers can become distracted by phones, GPS devices, or in-cabin electronics. Even a momentary lapse in focus can lead to tragedy.
• Improper Lane Changes: Given the size of commercial trucks, improper lane changes or merging without checking blind spots can have catastrophic consequences for smaller vehicles.
• Unsecured Loads: A truck's cargo must be properly secured. Loose or unbalanced loads can cause rollovers or objects falling into traffic, endangering nearby drivers.
• Weather Conditions: Rain, fog, or icy roads pose increased hazards for large trucks due to longer stopping distances and reduced visibility.

If you or someone you love has been affected by a crash, calling our wrongful death attorneys is critical. Accidents involving commercial trucks often require thorough investigations, evidence preservation, and legal representation to ensure victims receive fair compensation. Insurance companies for trucking companies are known to move quickly, often trying to settle for less than victims deserve. That's why it's crucial to have dedicated legal advocates in your corner as soon as possible.

At DZ Law, we understand the life-altering effects of serious accidents. We offer free consultations and are ready to help you and your family through every step of the legal process. Call our team at 865-259-0020 to speak with our experienced East Ridge truck accident attorneys. We'll listen to your story, answer your questions, and help you determine the best course of action. You don't have to face this alone—our team is here to support you in your pursuit of justice and recovery.

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.