Gatlinburg, TN (June 3, 2025) – Visitors to the heart of Gatlinburg experienced a frightening scene on June 1 when a multicar crash injured seven people along the Parkway.

According to initial reports from the Tennessee Highway Patrol, the incident occurred around 4:20 p.m. near the 700 block of the bustling Parkway. A minivan reportedly "accelerated unexpectedly," striking a pedestrian in a crosswalk before crashing into multiple vehicles. The force of the collision sent one vehicle careening into a street sign, which then toppled and struck a second pedestrian.

Beyond the two pedestrians, five others sustained injuries while inside two separate vehicles. The Tennessee Highway Patrol indicated that a medical emergency may have caused the minivan's sudden acceleration. First responders arrived quickly, transporting the injured to nearby hospitals for evaluation and treatment.

Debris from the crash littered the roadway, and severe damage to five vehicles could be seen in early footage from the scene. The major tourist artery was closed for a time but has since reopened. Authorities continue to investigate the accident to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the event.

We hope those injured in this crash recover rapidly.

Car Accidents in Tennessee

Motor vehicle accidents are a serious concern across Tennessee, with thousands of crashes reported every year. In 2023, there were more than 190,000 traffic accidents across the state, resulting in thousands of injuries and fatalities. With the high volume of visitors to places like Gatlinburg, roadways can become congested, increasing the risk of collisions.

Understanding common causes of accidents can help drivers stay alert and prevent tragic incidents. Below are a few critical insights:

• Medical Emergencies While Driving: Sudden medical conditions such as heart attacks, seizures, or fainting can cause drivers to lose control of their vehicles. These emergencies are unpredictable, and unfortunately, they can lead to severe accidents like the one reported here.
• Pedestrian Risks in Tourist Areas: Busy tourist destinations have a high number of pedestrians, often creating risky environments. Drivers and walkers alike must exercise heightened caution to avoid tragic encounters.
• Multi-Vehicle Collisions: Chain-reaction crashes can occur when an initial impact forces vehicles into others. These pileups can lead to extensive damage and multiple injuries, especially on heavily traveled roadways.
• Unexpected Vehicle Malfunctions: Although less common, mechanical failures like sudden acceleration or brake failure can play a role in major collisions, complicating investigations.

If you or a loved one has been hurt in an accident, it is vital to speak with an experienced car accident attorney. Legal counsel can help you understand your rights, collect crucial evidence, and pursue compensation for your injuries. Acting quickly ensures that important documentation and witness statements are preserved.

If you've been injured, DZ Law is ready to help. We offer free consultations and can guide you through every step of the legal process. Call our team at 865-259-0020 to get started. Our Gatlinburg car accident attorneys are here to listen to your story and provide the support you need. Every case is personal to us, and we work hard to pursue justice for every client. Don't wait—contact DZ Law today.

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.