Knoxville, TN (March 16, 2025) – A late-night crash on Interstate 275 left four people injured, including a 15-year-old boy in critical condition.

The Knoxville Police Department reported that the crash occurred at approximately 11:35 p.m. on Thursday, March 13. Authorities said an officer conducting traffic enforcement spotted a white Infiniti speeding northbound on I-275 at over 85 miles per hour. When the officer attempted to stop the vehicle, the driver refused to pull over and continued at high speed.

As the officer attempted to catch up, the car veered off the roadway and crashed through a guardrail. Emergency responders arrived at the scene and discovered four occupants inside the vehicle. A 15-year-old passenger sustained potentially life-threatening injuries and was transported to UT Medical Center, where he was listed in critical condition. The remaining three occupants, including the driver, 20-year-old Eric Barnes, were also taken to the hospital with injuries that were not believed to be life-threatening.

Authorities have charged Barnes with reckless endangerment in connection to the crash. The investigation remains ongoing.

We hope those injured in this accident recover quickly.

Car Accidents in Tennessee

Tennessee sees thousands of motor vehicle accidents each year, many of which result in significant injuries. Speeding is a major contributing factor in a large percentage of crashes statewide. According to the Tennessee Department of Safety, excessive speed plays a role in nearly one-third of all fatal crashes. High-speed collisions increase the risk of severe injuries and fatalities, particularly for passengers who are not restrained properly.

There are many dangers associated with high-speed crashes. Here are some key risks:

• Loss of Control: Speeding makes it harder for drivers to react to sudden obstacles or changes in traffic, increasing the risk of accidents.
• Increased Impact Force: The faster a vehicle travels, the more forceful the impact during a crash, leading to greater damage and more severe injuries.
• Reduced Effectiveness of Safety Features: Seat belts, airbags, and other safety mechanisms are less effective at high speeds, making injuries more severe.
• Longer Stopping Distance: Vehicles require more distance to come to a complete stop when traveling at high speeds, increasing the chances of rear-end collisions or loss of control.

After a car accident in Knoxville, it's crucial for injured victims to seek legal guidance. Our Knoxville car accident attorney at DZ Law can help navigate the legal process and ensure that victims receive the compensation they deserve. Medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering can take a significant toll on victims and their families. By speaking with an attorney as soon as possible, victims can better understand their rights and options.

At DZ Law, we understand how difficult life can become after a serious accident. If you or a loved one has been injured in a crash, you don't have to face this alone. Our experienced attorneys are here to guide you through the legal process and fight for the compensation you need. Call us today at 865-259-0020 for a free consultation. We are committed to helping accident victims seek justice and move forward with their lives. Don't wait—contact us now to discuss your case.

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.