Memphis, TN – Two Dead, One Hospitalized in Multi-Vehicle Crash on I-40 W
Memphis, TN (February 23, 2026) – A tragic accident on Interstate 40 claimed the lives of two people and left another injured on Saturday night, February 21. Memphis Police responded to the westbound lanes near Watkins Street (mile marker three) shortly after 9:00 p.m.
Upon arrival, emergency crews found a severe two-vehicle collision. Authorities confirmed that two individuals were pronounced dead at the scene. A third person was transported to a local hospital in non-critical condition.
The impact of the crash was so significant that all westbound lanes of I-40 remained closed for approximately four hours while investigators and cleanup crews worked the scene.
The Memphis Police Department has not yet released the identities of the victims or determined the cause of the collision. The investigation is ongoing.
We extend our sincere condolences to the family and loved ones of the persons who lost their lives.
What can I do if a family member is killed in a car accident in Memphis?
In Tennessee, the loss of a loved one in a car accident is governed by "wrongful death" laws that prioritize specific family members. To safeguard your legal interests, you must act quickly, since Tennessee has one of the shortest legal deadlines in the country, to ensure that evidence is preserved and your family is protected from aggressive insurance tactics. This is why getting in touch with a lawyer is key in these types of situations.
Tennessee law follows a strict order of priority for who can file a wrongful death claim. Typically, the right belongs first to the surviving spouse. If there is no spouse, the right passes to the children of the deceased, then to the parents or next of kin. Only one wrongful death lawsuit can be filed for a person’s death, so it is vital to establish early who will act as the representative for the family.
Additionally, Tennessee has a very strict one-year statute of limitations for wrongful death claims. This clock usually starts ticking on the date the accident occurred. If a lawsuit is not filed within this 365-day window, the family almost always loses the right to seek justice or compensation. Because investigations into I-40 pileups can take months, starting the legal process early is the only way to ensure your rights are not permanently lost.
In the wake of a tragedy, insurance companies often move quickly to offer "low-ball" settlements before the full impact of the loss is understood. Contacting a lawyer allows you to hand off all communication with adjusters and investigators. A lawyer will work with accident reconstruction experts to prove fault and ensure that every available insurance policy is identified, allowing your family to focus on grieving while your legal interests are fiercely protected.
The lawyers at The Dunk Law Firm understand that the sudden loss of a family member is an overwhelming burden, and the legal maze that follows shouldn't be yours to navigate alone. We can help you find the clarity and support your family needs during this time.
Contact The Dunk Law Firm today at 414-209-4398 to speak with our wrongful death lawyer and get the support you need.
Note: This post is based on information obtained from publicly available secondary sources. We have not independently verified all details of the incident. If you notice any inaccuracies or missing information, please contact Dunk Law Firm so we can promptly review and correct the content for accuracy and reliability.
Disclaimer: The content of this post is for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal or medical advice. It does not create an attorney-client relationship nor constitute a solicitation for legal services. If you have been injured in an accident, please seek immediate medical attention and consult a qualified attorney. Any images included are for illustrative purposes only and do not represent the actual scene or parties involved in the incident.
