Murfreesboro, TN (May 12, 2026) – A 44-year-old man died after a vehicle struck him near the intersection of New Salem Highway and Veterans Parkway in Murfreesboro late Saturday night, May 9. The crash occurred at approximately 11:12 p.m. 

Joshua Dodson, of Eagleville, was struck by a vehicle driven by a 21-year-old woman. Rutherford County Emergency Medical Services responded to the scene and transported Dodson to a local hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.

The driver of the vehicle was not injured in the crash. Authorities continue to actively investigate the circumstances surrounding the collision.

We extend our sincere condolences to the family and loved ones of Joshua Dodson during this incredibly difficult time.

Legal Rights After a Fatal Pedestrian Accident in Tennessee

When a pedestrian dies as a result of a car accident in Tennessee, surviving family members have the right to pursue a wrongful death claim against the at-fault driver. Tennessee law allows certain family members to seek compensation for the losses caused by their loved one’s death. Understanding these rights early can help families make informed decisions during an already devastating time.

Tennessee’s wrongful death statute gives the surviving spouse, children, or parents of the deceased the right to file a claim. If none of these immediate family members survive, other relatives may have standing to file. The claim is typically filed by the personal representative of the deceased’s estate on behalf of the surviving family. 

Tennessee gives families one year from the date of death to file a wrongful death lawsuit. Missing this deadline can permanently eliminate the right to pursue legal action, regardless of how clear the facts of the crash may be. 

A wrongful death claim in Tennessee can seek compensation for several categories of loss. These include funeral and burial expenses, medical bills incurred before death, the financial support the deceased would have provided over their lifetime, and the loss of companionship and guidance suffered by surviving family members.

Families dealing with the sudden loss of a loved one in a fatal crash face enormous emotional and financial pressure. Funeral costs, loss of household income, and ongoing grief can all create serious burdens. A Murfreesboro wrongful death attorney can handle the legal process, communicate with insurance companies, and allow families to focus on healing rather than paperwork.

At Gritton & Gritton, we have extensive experience handling wrongful death and pedestrian accident cases throughout Tennessee. Our team can review the details of your situation, explain how Tennessee’s wrongful death laws apply, and help clarify what options may be available to your family. 

If you lost a loved one in a fatal pedestrian accident and have questions about your legal rights, contact Gritton & Gritton at (615) 285-5472 to speak with team.

Notes: This post is based on information gathered from publicly available secondary sources. The specific details of the incident have not been independently confirmed. If you believe any part of this report is inaccurate, please contact Gritton & Gritton so we can review the information and make any necessary updates.

Disclaimer: The material in this post is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be interpreted as legal or medical advice. It does not establish an attorney–client relationship and is not intended to solicit business. If you were injured in an accident, please seek prompt medical care. The photo used in this post is for illustrative purposes only and does not depict the actual accident scene.