Tennessee (TN) Medical Malpractice Laws
Everything you need to know about filing a medical malpractice claim in Tennessee.
Damage Cap
$750,000 non-economic damages ($1,000,000 for catastrophic injuries such as paraplegia, amputation, or severe burns)
Statute of Limitations
1 year from the date of the negligent act or omission
Discovery Rule
Tennessee applies the discovery rule, tolling the statute until the injury is discovered or should have been discovered, subject to a 3-year statute of repose.
Pre-Filing Requirements
Plaintiffs must provide 60 days' pre-suit notice and file a certificate of good faith with the complaint, supported by a written expert opinion.
Average Settlement
$200,000 - $450,000
Average Verdict
$325,000 - $1,100,000
Key Facts About Tennessee Medical Malpractice Law
- 1Tennessee has a short 1-year statute of limitations but offers a 3-year statute of repose from the date of the negligent act.
- 2Pre-suit notice of 60 days must be given to the healthcare provider before filing the complaint.
- 3A certificate of good faith with a supporting written expert opinion must be filed with the complaint.
- 4Tennessee follows a modified comparative fault system with a 50% bar.
- 5The non-economic damages cap has a higher tier of $1,000,000 for catastrophic injuries.
Need Help with a Tennessee Medical Malpractice Case?
If you believe you have a medical malpractice claim in Tennessee, it is important to act quickly. The statute of limitations in Tennessee is 1 year from the date of the negligent act or omission. Most medical malpractice attorneys offer free initial consultations.