Knoxville, TN – Fatal Crash on I-40 W Near Papermill Dr Exit

Knoxville, TN (September 3, 2025) – A woman lost her life after a two-vehicle collision on Monday evening, September 1, on I-40 westbound near the Papermill Dr exit.

The Knoxville Police Department identified the victim as 50-year-old Laura Vinot of Jefferson City. Authorities said the crash occurred around 8 p.m. when Vinot’s Chevy minivan clipped another vehicle while attempting a lane change.

The impact caused the minivan to leave the roadway and roll over. Police noted that Vinot was not wearing a seatbelt and was ejected from the vehicle. Emergency crews transported her to UT Medical Center, where she was pronounced dead.

Investigators with KPD are continuing to review the details of this tragic incident. Our thoughts are with Vinot’s family and loved ones during this difficult time.

Deadly Car Accidents in Knoxville

Interstate 40 is a major roadway running through Knoxville, carrying thousands of vehicles each day. With so much traffic, crashes can and do happen, and some sadly result in fatalities. The recent accident near Papermill Dr is a painful reminder of how quickly a routine drive can turn tragic.

Rollover accidents, like the one involved in this case, are hazardous. They often lead to severe or fatal injuries because of the force and unpredictability of the vehicle’s motion. Safety experts emphasize that seatbelt use is one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of being ejected during a crash. Still, even when drivers and passengers take precautions, accidents can cause devastating losses.

For families who lose a loved one in a car accident, the impact extends far beyond grief. They may face unexpected medical expenses, funeral costs, and financial strain if the victim was a primary provider. Tennessee law allows surviving family members to pursue wrongful death claims, which may provide compensation for these expenses, as well as for lost income and emotional suffering.

Knoxville drivers can help reduce risks by staying alert, obeying speed limits, and avoiding sudden lane changes. Still, the heavy traffic along I-40 means that even cautious drivers remain vulnerable to accidents.

If you or someone you love has been involved in a serious crash on I-40 in Knoxville, filling out our contact form may help you take the first step toward understanding your legal rights. Guidance is available to help families and survivors through the challenges that follow a tragic accident.