Car Accident Lawyer Birmingham, AL

How Our Car Accident Attorney Can Help You

Our Birmingham personal injury team assists victims in a variety of different accidents. Whether you were in an accident involving a car, truck, motorcycle or other vehicle, we can assist you. In an accident, there is often a party whose negligent or harmful actions have placed them at fault. This may be another driver who was texting, drunk, careless, or reckless in their driving. It may also be a vehicle manufacturer that made a vehicle with defective parts and safety features or a trucking company whose careless business practices created an unsafe environment that led to your accident.

No matter the specific circumstances of your accident, a car accident lawyer will counsel you on the best path forward and aid you in receiving compensation for your injuries. We can assist you in filing a claim and negotiating with insurance or taking the at-fault party to court to seek damages.

Seeking Compensation

One important role of a lawyer is to evaluate your accident, injuries, and all circumstances surrounding your case to best counsel you on the proper amount of compensation to seek in your case. They will help you maximize the compensation you receive by ensuring that all damages you can recoup are included in your filing. In the case of a car accident, you may be able to recover compensation for losses such as medical expenses, pain and suffering, emotional turmoil, property damage, and lost wages.

Other damages can potentially be recovered if they are a result of the accident and the negligence of the at-fault party. Our Alabama car accident lawyer will provide care and service specific to your case and ensure that you seek out the full range of compensation for your case.

Exploring The Root Causes Of Collisions

Various factors contribute to motor vehicle accidents, each presenting unique challenges and legal considerations. Driver error remains a primary cause, encompassing a range of actions from distracted driving and impaired driving to failing to obey traffic laws. Modern technology, while beneficial, has introduced new distractions, such as texting or using navigation apps while driving, increasing the likelihood of accidents.

Environmental conditions also play a pivotal role. Adverse weather conditions like rain, snow, or fog can impair visibility and road grip, leading to accidents. Poorly maintained roads and inadequate signage can further contribute to these incidents.

Another critical aspect is vehicle malfunction. Defective parts or failure to maintain vehicles properly can lead to catastrophic failures, resulting in accidents. This introduces complex liability questions, often involving manufacturers or maintenance providers. Our dedicated Birmingham car accident lawyers will know who to seek compensation from in a case like this.

Common Car Accident Injuries

When you find yourself involved in a road incident, the aftermath can be overwhelmingly stressful. Not only do you have to deal with the immediate disruption of your daily activities, but the long-term effects can also pose serious challenges. We recommend working with our knowledgeable lawyers to avoid missteps. Here’s a detailed look at some of the most prevalent injuries that individuals might face after auto collisions.

• Whiplash

One of the most frequent injuries resulting from vehicle collisions, especially in rear-end accidents, is whiplash. This occurs when the force of the crash jolts the head and neck back and forth abruptly. Symptoms might not appear immediately but can include neck pain, stiffness, headaches, and dizziness. Recovery can vary, with some people feeling better within a few weeks, while others may experience long-term discomfort.

• Concussions

A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury (TBI) caused by a blow to the head or a sudden jolt, such as during a vehicle crash. Symptoms can include headaches, confusion, blurred vision, and memory problems. It’s crucial to seek immediate medical attention after a head injury, as symptoms can worsen without proper care.

• Bone Fractures

The impact of a collision can easily break bones. The most common fractures in accidents involve the arms, legs, ribs, and hips. Bone fracture injuries require immediate medical intervention and can significantly impair mobility and quality of life during the healing process.

• Soft Tissue Injuries

Soft tissue injuries refer to damage to muscles, ligaments, and tendons. These might not be as immediately apparent as bone fractures but can cause considerable pain and long-term issues if not properly treated. Common examples include sprains, strains, and contusions.

• Spinal Cord Injuries

Injuries to the spinal cord can be some of the most severe outcomes of traffic collisions. Depending on the area of the spine affected, victims might experience varying degrees of paralysis, potentially resulting in lifelong disability. Immediate medical treatment is critical to minimize the long-term impacts of spinal injuries. It is crucial to hire one of our Birmingham car accident lawyers so that you get the assistance and compensation you deserve.

• Emotional And Psychological Trauma

It’s important not to overlook the emotional and psychological toll that a road incident can have on individuals. Conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression are common among survivors of severe accidents. Professional counseling and support are vital for recovery.

• Internal Injuries

Internal injuries, such as those to organs or internal bleeding, can be life-threatening if not treated promptly. These injuries might not be visible and often require diagnostic tests to identify. Symptoms such as abdominal pain, dizziness, and fainting are signs that urgent medical attention is needed.

Birmingham Car Accident Infographic

Birmingham Car Accident Statistics

According to the National Safety Council, the number one cause of personal injury in this country is car accidents. There are more than six million crashes each year that leave approximately three million people with injuries

If you have been injured in a crash caused by someone else, make sure you have a skilled car accident attorney from our firm fighting for you to make sure you get the financial compensation you may be entitled to.

Birmingham Car Accident FAQs

What if the Other Driver Doesn’t Have Insurance?

If you have uninsured motorist coverage, then your own uninsured motorist coverage may cover your medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. A car accident lawyer can help you navigate this process, file a claim with your insurance company, and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. They can also explore other avenues like personal injury lawsuits against the uninsured driver if necessary, though recovery may depend on their ability to pay.

How Long Will My Car Accident Case Take?

The timeline for handling a car accident case varies widely based on several factors, including the complexity of the case, the severity of injuries, and whether liability is disputed. Simple cases with clear liability and minor injuries may resolve relatively quickly, sometimes within a matter of months. However, more complex cases that require extensive investigation or litigation can take much longer—often extending to a year or more.

What if I Suffered Injuries That Weren’t Immediately Apparent?

It’s important to seek medical attention promptly. Adrenaline, which is usually released after a car wreck, masks pain, so you may be more badly hurt than you actually realize. In addition, some injuries, like whiplash or internal injuries, may not show symptoms right away but can worsen over time. Documenting your injuries and seeking medical treatment as soon as symptoms appear is important for both your health and any potential legal claim.

What if the Insurance Company Offers a Settlement?

If the insurance company offers a settlement after a car accident, it’s essential to carefully evaluate the offer with the guidance of a car accident lawyer. Insurance companies may offer low settlements quickly to minimize their costs, often before the full extent of your injuries and damages is known. A lawyer can assess whether the settlement amount adequately covers your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. They can negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf to seek a fair settlement that fully compensates you for your losses, or advise if declining the offer and pursuing further legal action is in your best interest.

Birmingham Car Accident FAQs

Car accidents happen every day, and the legal process that follows can feel overwhelming. In the aftermath of a car accident, our Alabama car accident lawyers are here to help you pursue compensation and justice. Our firm has been assisting clients for nearly 30 years in Alabama, and we are prepared to use our knowledge and experience to help you recover compensation for your injuries. Knowing what steps to take, what compensation may be available, and how fault impacts a claim can make a difference. If you have been injured in a car accident, contact Marsh | Rickard | Bryan, LLC today to schedule your free consultation and begin your path to recovery today.

What Compensation Can I Recover After A Car Accident?

Compensation for car accident victims depends on the details of the accident, but it often includes medical expenses, lost wages, and vehicle repair costs. Pain and suffering may also be considered. If the other driver was reckless, punitive damages could also apply. Each case is different, and the amount of compensation will vary based on the extent of the injuries and damages suffered.

What Should I Do Immediately After A Car Accident?

In the aftermath of a car accident, it is important to take the right actions in order to protect your health and your claim. First, check for injuries and call 911 if needed. If possible, move to a safe location and exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver. Taking pictures of the scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries can help with a claim. Seeking medical attention is important, even if injuries seem minor. Some injuries might not show symptoms immediately, but could lead to adverse long-term effects if left untreated. Reporting the accident to the police creates an official record that can be useful later. Taking these steps and consulting with our Alabama car accident lawyer can help set you on the path to recovery after an accident.

How Long Do I Have To File A Car Accident Claim?

Alabama law gives most accident victims two years from the date of the crash to file a claim. Missing this deadline can mean losing the right to seek compensation. Some cases may have different timelines. Filing as soon as possible helps preserve evidence and strengthens a claim. If you have been in an accident, contact our Alabama car accident lawyers to begin the process of filing your claim.

What If I Was Partially At Fault For The Accident?

Alabama follows a contributory negligence rule, which means that if a driver is partially at fault, they may not be able to recover compensation. However, that determination is based on a reasonableness standard. Insurance companies may try to inappropriately use this rule to avoid paying claims. A strong case with solid evidence can help counter arguments that shift blame unfairly. By discussing your case with our attorney, you can understand how negligence factors into your case.

What Evidence Do I Need For My Case?

Strong evidence can make a big difference in a car accident claim. Photos of the accident scene, witness statements, police reports, and medical records help establish what happened. Documentation of lost wages and other expenses also supports a claim. The more proof available, the stronger the case against the responsible party.

Birmingham Car Accident Glossary

When you’re involved in a car accident, it’s essential to understand the legal terms and processes that can affect your case. Our Birmingham car accident lawyer can help guide you through this complicated process. To help you make informed decisions, we’ve compiled a glossary of common terms you may encounter when seeking compensation for injuries or damages following an accident.

Burden of Proof

In a car accident case, the burden of proof refers to the responsibility of the plaintiff (the person making the claim) to provide sufficient evidence that supports their case. This means that the person who claims to have been harmed—such as the injured party in a car accident—must demonstrate that the defendant’s negligence or wrongful actions caused the accident and the resulting legal damages. This can involve a range of evidence, including witness testimony, police conclusions, medical records, and photographs. As a plaintiff, it’s crucial to present a compelling case to meet this burden, as failing to do so may result in the dismissal of the claim.

Settlement Negotiation

Settlement negotiation is a process where both parties—usually the injured party and the insurance company or defendant—work to reach an agreement on compensation without proceeding to trial. For car accident victims, this typically involves negotiating a financial amount that will cover their medical expenses, lost wages, and other legal damages. Our car accident attorney plays a key role in these negotiations, ensuring that any settlement offer is fair and fully covers the victim’s legal damages. This process can save time and reduce the stress of going through a lengthy trial, but it’s important to have legal representation to make sure the settlement is adequate.

Punitive Damages

Punitive damages are a form of legal damages that go beyond compensating a victim for their actual losses. They are awarded in cases where the defendant’s actions were particularly reckless or wanton. For example, if a driver causes an accident while driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, a court may decide to award punitive damages. These damages serve as a punishment to the defendant and act as a deterrent to prevent the defendant and others from engaging in similar harmful behavior. In car accident cases, punitive damages are not always awarded, but they can be a significant part of a legal claim if the defendant’s behavior was especially egregious.

Liability Insurance

Liability insurance is a type of coverage that helps pay for damages or injuries caused by the policyholder or other covered person to another party. In the context of a car accident, if the other driver is at fault, their liability insurance may cover your medical bills, vehicle repair costs, and other damages. It is important for all drivers to carry liability insurance, as it provides financial protection in the event of an accident. If the at-fault driver does not have enough insurance to cover your damages, your own insurance policy may come into play, depending on the type of coverage you have. Make sure you have uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage to protect you in situations where an uninsured or underinsured driver causes you harm.

Pain and Suffering

Pain and suffering refer to the physical and emotional distress a person experiences as a result of an injury. Unlike economic damages (which cover things like medical bills or lost wages), pain and suffering are non-economic damages designed to compensate the victim for the more subjective aspects of their experience. This can include things like the physical pain from injuries, the emotional distress such as anxiety or depression following the accident, and a loss of enjoyment of life due to long-term impairments. In car accident cases, pain and suffering can often be a significant portion of the damages awarded, as it reflects the lasting impact the injury has had on the victim’s quality of life.

Marsh | Rickard | Bryan, LLC, Birmingham Car Accident Lawyer

2222 Arlington Ave S Suite 210, Birmingham, AL 35205

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Contact Our Birmingham Car Accident Lawyer Today

Recovering from a motor vehicle accident involves both physical healing and navigating the legalities. Seeking professional legal advice early is a critical step in ensuring a fair and just resolution. These legal experts can provide guidance, represent interests, and work tirelessly to secure the compensation that victims deserve.

For anyone affected by a motor vehicle accident, reaching out to a specialized legal professional is a vital step. Their experience can make a significant difference in the journey towards recovery and justice, ensuring that the rights and well-being of victims are protected.

If you or someone you know has been involved in a motor vehicle accident, consider reaching out to Marsh, Rickard & Bryan, LLC for a consultation. Understanding your rights and options is the first step towards a successful recovery and ensuring that justice is served.

Client Review

“Choosing the firm of Marsh, Rickard and Bryan was one of the best decision I ever made. Attorney Jeff Rickard, Cathy Chancellor and the entire team were fantastic! Any questions or concerns I had were answered and/or addressed promptly. I was very impressed with the professional service that this firm provided for me and the expertise with which concluded in a favorable outcome.”

Raynard Lawler