Birmingham Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
Pedestrian accidents in Birmingham, Alabama, can occur in a variety of locations, including at crosswalks and in parking lots. These accidents frequently happen when drivers are careless or distracted.
If you or someone you love suffered injuries in a recent pedestrian collision, the Birmingham, AL, Personal Injury Lawyers at Alexander Shunnarah Trial Attorneys: Accident & Injury Lawyers is ready to help. We can swiftly investigate your accident circumstances, go over your options with you, and pursue the compensation you need for your losses.
For a free case evaluation and legal consultation with an experienced Birmingham pedestrian accident attorney, please call us at (205) 894-3513 or contact us online.
Why Choose Us for Your Legal Needs?
Birmingham pedestrian accidents frequently result in debilitating injuries, some of which may end up permanent. You may also incur high medical costs and lose significant income due to your injuries.
At Alexander Shunnarah Trial Attorneys: Accident & Injury Lawyers, we can fight for your rights every step of the way in pursuit of the compensation you deserve. Our lawyers have recovered millions of dollars on behalf of injured accident victims, and we know how to fight the insurance company to get you the full compensation you deserve.
You can view our most recent client testimonials here.
How Much is a Birmingham Pedestrian Accident Case Worth?
The worth of a pedestrian accident case in Birmingham, Alabama, depends on several factors, including the severity of your injuries, the extent of your medical treatment, and the effect the accident has had on your life. In general, if you were seriously injured, you may be entitled to significant compensation.
When determining the value of your case, your medical expenses are a primary factor. This includes costs for hospital stays, surgeries, doctor visits, physical therapy, and any future medical care you may need. Additionally, if your injuries prevent you from working, you can claim lost income. If your ability to earn in the future is affected, this loss of earning capacity can also be compensated.
Beyond medical expenses and lost income, you can also recover compensation for pain and suffering. This is meant to cover the physical pain and emotional distress you’ve endured because of the pedestrian accident. The more severe your injuries, the higher this compensation may be.
In some cases, you may also be entitled to compensation for property damage if any personal items, such as your phone or clothing, were damaged in the accident. Additionally, if your injuries require you to make changes to your home or vehicle to accommodate a disability, you can be compensated for these costs.
An experienced pedestrian accident attorney at Alexander Shunnarah Trial Attorneys: Accident & Injury Lawyers can help you accurately assess the value of your case and ensure that you pursue the full compensation you deserve.
Most Common Locations for Birmingham Pedestrian Accidents
In Birmingham, Alabama, pedestrian accidents can happen in various parts of the city, but certain locations are more prone to these incidents due to heavy traffic, poor visibility, and a high concentration of pedestrians.
- Downtown Birmingham is one of the most frequent locations for pedestrian accidents. This area is bustling with activity, with many people walking to and from work, restaurants, and shops. The mix of heavy vehicle traffic and numerous pedestrians increases the likelihood of accidents, especially during rush hours when drivers may be in a hurry, and visibility can be compromised.
- Five Points South is another hotspot for pedestrian accidents in Birmingham. Known for its vibrant nightlife and dining scene, this area attracts many visitors, especially in the evenings. The combination of dim lighting, alcohol consumption, and crowded streets can create a dangerous environment for pedestrians. Drivers in this area may be distracted or impaired, increasing the risk of accidents.
- The University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) Campus and surrounding areas also see a high number of pedestrian accidents. With a large student population and many crosswalks, there is constant pedestrian movement throughout the day. Drivers who are unfamiliar with the area or who are not paying attention may not yield to pedestrians, leading to accidents.
- Intersections along major roads like US-31 (Montgomery Highway) and US-280 (Red Mountain Expressway) are also common locations for pedestrian accidents. These roads are major thoroughfares with high-speed limits and heavy traffic. Pedestrians attempting to cross these busy roads – especially at poorly marked crosswalks – are at significant risk.
- Residential areas with schools and parks, such as Avondale and Homewood, also experience pedestrian accidents. Children walking to and from school or people jogging or walking their dogs in these neighborhoods are vulnerable, especially when drivers are not paying attention or are speeding through residential streets.
Types of Birmingham Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrian accidents in Birmingham, Alabama, often result from driver negligence, which occurs when a driver fails to operate their vehicle in a reasonably safe manner. Several key factors contribute to these accidents, often leading to serious injuries or even fatalities for pedestrians.
- One of the most common causes is distracted driving. Drivers who are texting, talking on the phone, adjusting the radio, or using a GPS are not fully focused on the road. This distraction can cause them to miss seeing pedestrians – especially those who are crossing the street or walking near the road. Even a momentary lapse in attention can have devastating consequences.
- Another significant cause is speeding. When drivers exceed the speed limit, they have less time to react to pedestrians crossing the road or walking alongside it. The higher the speed, the longer it takes for a vehicle to come to a stop, making it more difficult to avoid a collision. In addition, the impact of a high-speed collision is much more severe, increasing the likelihood of serious injury or death for the pedestrian.
- Failure to yield is another common form of driver negligence that leads to Birmingham pedestrian accidents. Drivers are required to yield the right-of-way to pedestrians at crosswalks and intersections, but many fail to do so. This is especially dangerous when pedestrians have the right-of-way, such as at marked crosswalks with traffic signals. Drivers who ignore these rules put pedestrians at significant risk.
- Drunk driving also plays a significant role in pedestrian accidents. Alcohol impairs a driver’s ability to make sound decisions, slows reaction times, and affects coordination. Drunk drivers are less likely to notice pedestrians and more likely to make dangerous maneuvers, increasing the chances of an accident.
- Lastly, running red lights or stop signs is a dangerous form of negligence that frequently leads to pedestrian accidents. Drivers who ignore traffic signals and signs are often in a rush or simply not paying attention. This reckless behavior can easily result in collisions with pedestrians who are crossing the street legally.
Common Injuries in a Birmingham Pedestrian Accident
Pedestrian accidents in Birmingham, Alabama, can lead to a wide range of injuries, many of which are severe due to the vulnerability of pedestrians compared to vehicles. Without the protection that a car provides, pedestrians are at a high risk of serious injury when a vehicle strikes them.
- One of the most common injuries is head trauma, which can range from concussions to severe traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). When a car hits a pedestrian, their head may impact the vehicle, the pavement, or other objects, leading to injuries that can affect cognitive functions, memory, and even personality. Severe head injuries can require long-term medical care and rehabilitation.
- Broken bones are also frequently seen in pedestrian accidents. The impact from a vehicle can cause fractures in the arms or legs. Depending on the severity, these fractures may require surgery, the insertion of metal rods or plates, and extensive physical therapy. In some cases, victims may suffer permanent disability or a reduced range of motion.
- Spinal cord injuries are another serious consequence of pedestrian accidents. These injuries can occur when the spine is compressed or twisted during the collision, leading to damage that can result in partial or complete paralysis. Spinal cord injuries often require lifelong medical care and can drastically change a victim’s quality of life.
- Internal injuries are also common and can be particularly dangerous because they are not always immediately apparent. Damage to internal organs, such as the liver, kidneys, or lungs, can cause internal bleeding, which may be life-threatening if not treated promptly. These injuries often require emergency surgery and intensive care.
- Lacerations and abrasions are more superficial injuries but can still be serious, especially if they lead to significant blood loss or infection. These injuries often require stitches, wound care, and sometimes plastic surgery if they are severe.
In addition to physical injuries, victims of pedestrian accidents often suffer from emotional and psychological trauma. The experience of a vehicle striking them can lead to anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), requiring mental health treatment and support.
Fighting the Insurance Company After a Birmingham Pedestrian Accident
If you’ve suffered an injury in a pedestrian accident in Birmingham, Alabama, dealing with theinsurance company can be overwhelming. Insurance companies often prioritize their profits over your recovery, which is why it’s crucial to have someone on your side who knows how to fight for your rights. At Alexander Shunnarah Trial Attorneys: Accident & Injury Lawyers, here’s how we can help you in this challenging process.
- First, we gather and preserve critical evidence. This includes obtaining police reports, medical records, witness statements, and any available video footage. Strong evidence is the foundation of a successful claim, helping to establish the driver’s negligence and the extent of your injuries.
- Next, we handle all communication with the insurance company. Insurance adjusters are skilled at using your statements against you, often trying to minimize your claim. By letting us communicate on your behalf, we ensure that your words aren’t twisted – and that your rights are protected.
- We also carefully evaluate the full extent of your damages. This includes not only your immediate medical expenses but also future medical costs, lost income, pain and suffering, and any other effects the accident has had on your life. Insurance companies often try to settle quickly and for less than what you deserve. We fight to make sure you receive fair compensation for all of your losses.
- If the insurance company refuses to offer you a fair settlement, we are prepared to take your case to court. We have the experience and resources to present a strong case before a judge and jury, ensuring that the full effect of the accident on your life is recognized.
Our goal is to secure the compensation you deserve so you can focus on healing and moving forward with your life.
Steps to Take After a Birmingham Pedestrian Accident
After a pedestrian accident in Birmingham, Alabama, taking the right steps is crucial to protecting your health and your legal rights.
- First, retain important documentation related to your pedestrian accident. This includes the police report, medical records, photographs of the accident scene, and any witness information. These documents will be essential in proving your case and securing fair compensation.
- Finishing your medical treatment is also vital. Follow your doctor’s advice and complete all recommended treatments. This not only aids in your recovery but also provides a clear record of your injuries and the effect they’ve had on your life.
- Finally, speak with an experienced Birmingham pedestrian accident attorney as soon as possible. At Alexander Shunnarah Trial Attorneys: Accident & Injury Lawyers, we can handle the entire legal process for you, handle all communications with the insurance company, and fight to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Taking these steps will help protect your rights and support your recovery.
Speak with an Experienced Birmingham Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Today
At Alexander Shunnarah Trial Attorneys: Accident & Injury Lawyers, we are prepared to fight hard for your rights throughout the claims filing and litigation processes and will work diligently to secure the compensation you need in your pedestrian accident case.
For a free case evaluation and legal consultation with a knowledgeable Birmingham pedestrian accident lawyer, please call us at (205) 894-3513 or contact us online.
Alexander Shunnarah Trial Attorneys: Accident & Injury Lawyers – Birmingham Office
950 22nd St N suite 600
Birmingham, AL 35203
Ph: (205) 894-3513
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