Motorcycle Accident Lawyer in Birmingham, Alabama

Birmingham Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Motorcycle accidents in Birmingham are common not only on local interstate highways but also on less-traveled rural roads and in quiet neighborhoods. These collisions typically happen when other drivers speed, fail to watch the road attentively or commit traffic law violations.

If you sustained injuries in a recent motorcycle crash, the Birmingham, AL, Personal Injury Lawyers at Alexander Shunnarah Trial Attorneys: Accident & Injury Lawyers can handle every step of the process for you. We will aggressively fight for your rights or, if necessary, litigate your case in the state court system for an efficient and favorable resolution.

For a free case evaluation and legal consultation with an experienced Birmingham motorcycle accident attorney, please call us at (205) 894-3513 or contact us online.

Why Should We Represent You?

Injuries in motorcycle accidents can be debilitating due to the strong collision force. If you or a person you love sustained injuries in a Birmingham motorcycle crash, the legal team at Alexander Shunnarah Trial Attorneys: Accident & Injury Lawyers is prepared to advocate for you aggressively. Over the years, we have recovered millions of dollars on behalf of injured accident victims, and we know how to combat the insurance company for the fair compensation you deserve. You can see our most recent client testimonials by clicking on the following link.

Our attorneys have on behalf of injured accident victims over the years. We know how to take on the insurance company and maximize the compensation award you receive. You can review our most recent client testimonials here.

How Much is a Birmingham Motorcycle Accident Case Worth?

The value of a motorcycle accident case in Birmingham, Alabama, can vary widely depending on several key factors. Generally, the worth of your case will depend on the severity of your injuries, the amount of medical expenses you’ve incurred, and how much the accident has affected your ability to work and enjoy life. Cases involving more severe injuries and greater financial losses typically result in higher compensation.

In a Birmingham motorcycle accident case, you can recover two main forms of compensation: economic damages and non-economic damages.

Economic damages cover your financial losses directly related to the accident. These include medical expenses, such as hospital bills, surgeries, rehabilitation, and any future medical costs you may need for ongoing care. If your injuries prevent you from working, you can also recover lost earnings for the time you were unable to work. If your ability to earn a living has been permanently affected, you may be entitled to compensation for your loss of earning capacity.

Non-economic damages are meant to compensate you for the non-financial effects of the accident. These can include pain and suffering, which consider the physical pain and emotional distress resulting from your injuries. Non-economic damages also cover loss of life enjoyment if your injuries prevent you from participating in activities you once enjoyed. Additionally, if the accident caused permanent disfigurement or disability, you may receive compensation for the effect these have on your life.

In some cases, you may also be eligible for punitive damages, though these are less common. Punitive damages are intended to punish the at-fault party if their actions were particularly malicious or egregious, such as driving under the influence.

Ultimately, the value of your Birmingham motorcycle accident case will depend on the specifics of your situation, including the extent of your injuries, the costs you’ve incurred, and the degree of negligence involved. At Alexander Shunnarah Trial Attorneys: Accident & Injury Lawyers, we can help you better understand the potential value of your case and ensure you pursue the full compensation you deserve.

Where Do Motorcycle Accidents Frequently Happen in Birmingham?

Motorcycle accidents in Birmingham, Alabama, often occur in specific locations where traffic conditions and driver behavior make the roads particularly dangerous for motorcyclists. These accidents frequently result from the negligence of other drivers who may fail to notice or properly accommodate motorcyclists on the road. Here are some of the most common locations in Birmingham where motorcycle accidents happen due to the carelessness of other drivers.

• Busy Intersections – Intersections are among the most dangerous places for motorcyclists in Birmingham. Drivers who fail to yield the right of way, run red lights, or make illegal turns often cause accidents at these locations. For example, intersections along major roads like U.S. Route 31 – especially near downtown Birmingham – are frequent sites of motorcycle accidents. The complexity of traffic patterns and the potential for driver error make intersections a hotspot for collisions.
• Highways and Interstate Exits – Highways and interstates, including I-20, I-59, and I-65, are other common locations for motorcycle accidents. The high speeds combined with heavy traffic make these roads particularly hazardous. Accidents often occur near on-ramps and off-ramps where vehicles merge or exit, and drivers may fail to check their blind spots, cutting off motorcyclists or causing them to swerve. Distracted driving, such as texting or adjusting the GPS, is a common factor in these accidents.
• Urban Streets – Urban streets in Birmingham, particularly in congested areas like Five Points South and the Lakeview District, are frequent sites of motorcycle accidents. Drivers in these areas may be more focused on finding parking or navigating through heavy pedestrian traffic and may not notice motorcyclists in their path. Narrow lanes and frequent stops increase the risk of accidents as well.
• Rural Roads – Even though Birmingham is a bustling city, rural roads on the outskirts, such as those near Red Mountain or Ruffner Mountain, also see their share of motorcycle accidents. These roads can be winding, with limited visibility, and drivers may not expect to encounter motorcyclists. Inattentive or speeding drivers are often to blame for accidents in these areas.

Types of Birmingham Motorcycle Crashes 

Motorcycle collisions in Birmingham often result from the negligence of other drivers. Due to their smaller size and less visibility, motorcyclists are particularly vulnerable to the mistakes and carelessness of drivers in larger vehicles. Here are some of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents that result from driver negligence:

• Failure to Yield – This often happens at intersections when a car turns left in front of an oncoming motorcycle. Drivers may misjudge the speed of the motorcycle or fail to see it entirely, leading to a dangerous collision.
• Distracted Driving – Distracted driving is another leading cause of motorcycle accidents. Drivers who are texting, talking on the phone, adjusting the radio, or using a GPS are not fully focused on the road. This lack of attention can cause them to overlook a motorcycle, leading to an accident. Even a brief moment of distraction can have serious consequences when it involves a motorcycle.
• Blind Spot Collisions – Motorcycles are smaller than cars and can easily become hidden in a driver’s blind spot. When drivers change lanes without checking their blind spots, they can collide with a motorcycle traveling beside them. These accidents are particularly common on highways and multi-lane roads.
• Following Too Closely – Tailgating, or following too closely, is a dangerous habit that can lead to rear-end collisions. For motorcyclists, being rear-ended can be especially hazardous due to their lack of protection. Drivers who don’t maintain a safe following distance may be unable to stop in time if the motorcycle in front of them slows down or stops suddenly.
• Impaired Driving – Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs significantly impairs a driver’s ability to operate a vehicle safely. Impaired drivers have slower reaction times, poor judgment, and reduced coordination, all of which increase the likelihood of causing a motorcycle accident.

Common Injuries in a Birmingham Motorcycle Crash

Motorcycle riders are particularly vulnerable on the road, and when an accident occurs due to another driver’s negligence, the injuries can be severe. Unlike car drivers, motorcyclists don’t have the protection of a metal frame, airbags, or seat belts, which leaves them exposed to a range of serious injuries. Here are some of the most common physical and mental injuries that motorcycle riders in Birmingham may suffer, along with the medical treatments they may require.

Physical Injuries

One of the most common physical injuries in motorcycle accidents is road rash. This occurs when the rider is thrown from the motorcycle and skids across the pavement, causing severe skin abrasions. While road rash might seem “minor,” it can be very painful and may require treatment to prevent infection, scarring, and further complications.

Broken bones are also frequent in motorcycle accidents. The force of a collision can lead to fractures in the arms, legs, ribs, and collarbones. Treatment for broken bones usually involves immobilization with casts or braces, and in severe cases, surgery may be required to repair the damage.

Head injuries, including traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), are particularly dangerous for motorcyclists, even if they are wearing helmets. A TBI can range from a concussion to more serious brain damage, which can lead to long-term cognitive issues. Treatment may include emergency care, surgery, and ongoing rehabilitation.

Spinal cord injuries can be life-altering, potentially leading to partial or complete paralysis. Treatment for spinal injuries often involves surgery, physical therapy, and possibly long-term care.

Mental Injuries

Motorcycle accidents can also cause significant mental and emotional trauma. Many riders experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which may manifest as flashbacks, nightmares, and severe anxiety related to the accident. PTSD and other mental health issues can require therapy or counseling to manage.

Depression and anxiety are also common after serious motorcycle accidents, especially if the injuries result in long-term disabilities or chronic pain. Mental health treatment, including medication and therapy, is often necessary to help the injured rider cope.

Fighting the Insurance Company After a Birmingham Motorcycle Crash

Fighting the insurance company in a Birmingham, Alabama, motorcycle accident case can be challenging, but having a skilled attorney on your side can make a significant difference. At Alexander Shunnarah Trial Attorneys: Accident & Injury Lawyers, here’s how we can help you in this process:

• Gathering Evidence – First, we will gather all of the relevant evidence to build a strong case. This includes collecting police reports, medical records, and witness statements. We can also obtain photos or video footage of the accident scene that is available. This evidence helps to establish the facts of the case and demonstrate the extent of your injuries and damages.
• Dealing with Insurance Adjusters – Insurance adjusters often try to minimize the amount they pay out to motorcycle accident victims. We will handle all communications with the insurance company to prevent them from using tactics to undervalue your claim. We can negotiate on your behalf to ensure you receive fair compensation for your medical expenses, lost income, and other accident-related damages.
• Assessing Damages – We will thoroughly evaluate the full extent of your damages. This includes not only current medical expenses but also future medical costs, lost earning potential, and non-economic damages like pain and suffering. Accurate damage assessment ensures that your compensation reflects the true effect of the motorcycle accident on your life.
• Legal Skill – Navigating the legal system in Alabama can be complex. We use our legal knowledge and skills to ensure that all legal procedures are followed correctly and deadlines are met. This includes filing paperwork, meeting court deadlines, and presenting a compelling case if it goes to trial.
• Fighting for a Fair Settlement – Our goal is to secure a fair settlement that fully compensates you for your losses. If the insurance company refuses to offer you a reasonable amount, we are prepared to take your case to court and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Steps to Take After a Birmingham Motorcycle Collision

After a motorcycle accident in Birmingham, Alabama, taking the right steps is crucial for protecting your legal rights. Here are the most important actions to take:

1. Retain All Documentation – Immediately after the accident, gather and preserve all relevant documentation. This includes the police report, photographs of the accident scene and your injuries, contact information of witnesses, and any medical records related to your treatment. Keeping thorough records helps build a strong case for any insurance claims or legal actions.
2. Finish All of Your Medical Treatment – Seek medical attention right away, even if you feel fine. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent. Follow through with all prescribed treatments and attend follow-up appointments to ensure you recover fully. Documenting your medical treatment is essential for proving the extent of your injuries and the effects on your life and well-being.
3. Speak with a Lawyer – Contact a Birmingham motorcycle accident lawyer as soon as possible. At Alexander Shunnarah Trial Attorneys: Accident & Injury Lawyers, we will guide you through the necessary steps and protect your rights throughout the legal process.

By following these steps, you can safeguard your health, strengthen your legal position, and enhance your chances of receiving fair compensation from your motorcycle accident.

Speak with an Experienced Birmingham Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Today

At Alexander Shunnarah Trial Attorneys: Accident & Injury Lawyers, our experienced legal team will aggressively fight for your interests and pursue the full compensation you deserve for your motorcycle accident injuries.

For a free case evaluation and legal consultation with a skilled Birmingham motorcycle accident lawyer, please call us at (205) 894-3513 or contact us online right away.

Alexander Shunnarah Trial Attorneys: Accident & Injury Lawyers – Birmingham Office

950 22nd St N suite 600
Birmingham, AL 35203

Ph: (205) 894-3513