What Is the Tennessee Tort Claims Act?

Quick answer: The Tennessee Governmental Tort Liability Act (TGTLA), enacted in 1973 and effective January 1, 1974, allows injured individuals to file civil claims against local government entities in Tennessee under specific conditions. It balances victims’ rights to compensation with governments’ ability to function without excessive litigation.

Getting injured on government property — or due to a government employee’s negligence — raises a difficult question: can you actually sue a government entity? In Tennessee, the answer depends on a specific piece of legislation known as the Tennessee Governmental Tort Liability Act (TGTLA). Understanding this law is essential if you’ve been harmed through a Tennessee civil wrong involving a public body.

What Is a Tort?

A tort is a civil wrong — an act or omission that causes harm to another person, giving rise to legal liability. Common examples include slip-and-fall accidents, vehicle collisions caused by negligence, and property damage. 

When a private individual commits a tort, the path to legal recourse is relatively straightforward. When a government entity is responsible, the rules are more complex.

What Is the Purpose of the Tennessee Tort Claims Act?

The Tennessee General Assembly passed the TGTLA in 1973 to strike a balance. 

• On one side: the rights of injured people to receive compensation for harm caused by a local government’s negligence. 
• On the other: the government’s responsibility is to continue delivering public services without being paralyzed by litigation or excessive tax burdens.

The act reflects a deliberate policy choice — accountability, yes, but within defined limits.

Key Provisions of the Tennessee Governmental Tort Liability Act (TGTLA)

What Does the TGTLA Cover?

The TGTLA applies to any political subdivision of the state of Tennessee, including municipalities and any instrumentality of government created by a municipality (T.C.A. §§ 29-20-101, et seq.). This means cities, counties, and related government bodies can all fall within the act’s scope.

When Did the TGTLA Take Effect?

The act became effective on January 1, 1974, and applies only to claims or actions arising after that date. Any injury occurring before January 1, 1974 would not be governed by this legislation.

How Does the TGTLA Affect Your Injury Claim Against a Government Entity?

Filing a claim under the Tennessee Tort Claims Act differs significantly from filing against a private party. Key differences include:

• Notice requirements: Injured parties must typically file a formal notice of claim with the appropriate government entity within a strict timeframe.
• Damage caps: The TGTLA limits the amount of compensation a claimant can recover, which varies depending on the nature of the claim.
• Immunity exceptions: While government entities generally enjoy sovereign immunity, the TGTLA creates specific exceptions — such as injuries caused by negligent government employees acting within the scope of their employment.

Missing a deadline or failing to follow the correct procedures can result in your claim being dismissed entirely — regardless of how serious your injuries are.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Tennessee Tort Claims Act

1. Can I sue the Tennessee state government directly?

The TGTLA applies to local government entities and political subdivisions, not the state government itself. Separate legislation governs claims against the state.

2. What is the deadline to file a claim under the TGTLA?

Generally, you must file a written notice of your claim within 12 months of the injury. Missing this window can forfeit your right to compensation.

3. Are there limits on how much I can recover?

Yes. The TGTLA places caps on damages recoverable from government entities. An attorney can help you understand what limits apply to your specific situation.

4. What types of injuries qualify under the Tennessee Tort Claims Act?

Claims typically involve negligence by a government employee or unsafe conditions on government-owned property — such as poorly maintained roads, public buildings, or government vehicles.

Contact Bill Easterly & Associates for Help

Navigating the Tennessee Tort Claims Act on your own is difficult. The procedures are technical, the deadlines are strict, and the consequences of a misstep can be severe. If you or a loved one has been injured on government property or through the negligence of a government employee, Bill Easterly & Associates is here to help.

Our team has the experience to guide you through every step of the claims process — from filing your initial notice to pursuing the compensation you deserve. Don’t wait. Contact Bill Easterly & Associates today for a free consultation.