Truck Accident Lawyer in Birmingham, Alabama

Birmingham Truck Accident Lawyer

Tractor-trailers, big rigs, and 18-wheelers traverse Birmingham, Alabama, roads on a daily basis. When truck drivers and trucking companies take shortcuts or fail to follow the rules, serious accidents and injuries may result.

If you sustained injuries in a recent trucking accident the experienced Birmingham, AL, Personal Injury Lawyers at Alexander Shunnarah Trial Attorneys are ready to help. We can promptly begin an investigation into your trucking accident, determine your legal options, and pursue the compensation you deserve.

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

Why Should We Represent You in Your Truck Accident Case?

When a large commercial truck hits a smaller passenger vehicle, serious injuries can result, some of which may be permanent. If you sustained injuries in a recent Birmingham, Alabama, trucking accident, the legal team at Alexander Shunnarah Trial Attorneys: Accident & Injury Lawyers can handle the legal steps of your case while you focus on getting better.

Our attorneys have recovered millions of dollars in compensation 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 Truck Accident Case Worth?

If you’ve been involved in a trucking accident in Birmingham, Alabama, the amount you can recover through a claim or lawsuit depends on various factors, including the seriousness of your injuries, the extent of property damage, and the effect on your life. Here’s a breakdown of the various losses you might incur for which you can seek compensation:

• Medical Expenses – This includes all costs related to your treatment, such as hospital bills, surgery, medications, and physical therapy. If you need long-term care or rehabilitation, those expenses are also covered. The goal is to ensure that you are fully compensated for your medical needs both now and in the future.
• Lost income – If your injuries prevent you from working, you can recover compensation for the income you’ve lost. This also includes any future earnings if your injuries result in a long-term or permanent disability.
• Property Damage – This covers the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle and any other property damaged in the accident. If your vehicle is a total loss, you may receive the vehicle’s market value before the accident.
• Pain and Suffering – This is a type of non-economic damage that compensates for physical pain and emotional distress resulting from the trucking accident. It’s often calculated based on the severity and duration of your injuries.
• Emotional Distress – This can include compensation for anxiety, depression, or PTSD that resulted from the truck accident. Proving emotional distress may require medical or psychological evaluations.
• Loss of Consortium – If the accident has negatively affected your relationship with your spouse, then they (your spouse) may be eligible to recover compensation for loss of consortium – including the effects on companionship, support, and intimacy.
• Punitive Damages – In cases of extreme negligence, malice, or intentional misconduct, you may be awarded punitive damages. These are meant to punish the at-fault party and deter similar wrongful behavior in the future.

The total amount of compensation varies widely based on the specific circumstances of your case. It’s crucial to consult with an experienced Birmingham truck accident attorney at Alexander Shunnarah Trial Attorneys: Accident & Injury Lawyers, who can evaluate your situation, gather the necessary evidence, and advocate for the compensation you deserve.

Common Truck Accident Locations in Birmingham

In Birmingham, Alabama, certain locations are more prone to commercial trucking accidents due to traffic patterns, road conditions, and congestion. Here are some of the most common areas where these accidents may occur:

• Interstate Highways – Major highways like Interstate 20 and Interstate 65 are frequent sites of trucking accidents. Commercial trucks use these routes heavily when transporting goods across state lines, leading to higher chances of collisions. The high speeds and heavy traffic on these roads contribute to the risk.
• Major Intersections – Busy intersections, especially those with heavy truck traffic, are common accident hotspots. In Birmingham, intersections like the one at 1st Avenue North and 20th Street North, or 3rd Avenue South and 12th Street South, often experience truck accidents due to the complex traffic flow and turning movements.
• Downtown Birmingham – The downtown area has narrow streets, limited parking, and heavy pedestrian traffic, which can increase the risk of accidents involving commercial trucks. Trucks navigating through this congested area can face challenges that lead to collisions.
• Industrial Areas – Regions with a high concentration of warehouses and manufacturing facilities, such as those near the Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport, are common locations for trucking accidents. These areas see a lot of truck traffic as they move goods to and from distribution centers.
• Construction Zones – Road construction sites often involve lane closures, detours, and reduced speeds, creating hazardous conditions for all vehicles, including trucks. Accidents are more likely in these areas due to sudden changes in traffic patterns and road conditions.
• Rural Roads – While less common, accidents can also happen on rural roads surrounding Birmingham. These roads may have limited visibility and fewer safety features, which can pose risks for truck drivers traveling at high speeds.

Common Types of Birmingham Trucking Accidents

In Birmingham, several types of trucking accidents often result from negligence by trucking companies or truck drivers. Here are some of the most common categories:

• Rear-End Collisions – These happen when a truck crashes into the back of another vehicle. Negligence can include following too closely, not maintaining a safe following distance, or failing to adjust to traffic conditions. In Birmingham, heavy traffic and frequent stop-and-go situations can increase the risk of these accidents.
• Side-Impact (T-Bone) Accidents – These occur when a truck crashes into the side of another vehicle, often at intersections. Truck drivers may be negligent if they run a red light, fail to yield, or make improper turns. Busy intersections in Birmingham are common places for these types of accidents.
• Jackknife Accidents – This happens when the trailer of a truck swings out to form a 90-degree angle with the cab. This can occur due to abrupt braking, speeding, or poor road conditions. Negligence can include inadequate training or failing to properly maintain the truck.
• Rollover Accidents – Trucks can overturn if drivers take turns too quickly or drive too fast for road conditions. Negligence may involve speeding, overloaded cargo, or improper loading. Birmingham’s curves and turns can be tricky, increasing the risk of rollovers.
• Blind Spot Accidents – Trucks have large blind spots where other vehicles can be hidden from view. Accidents can occur if truck drivers fail to check these blind spots before changing lanes or merging. This type of negligence is common in busy areas and on highways.
• Equipment Failure – Mechanical issues are a common cause of truck accidents, like brake failure, tire blowouts, or problems with the truck’s lights can cause accidents. Trucking companies may be negligent if they skip regular maintenance or inspections.
• Fatigue-Related Accidents – Long hours on the road can lead to driver fatigue, which impairs reaction times and decision-making. Truck drivers or companies may be negligent if they ignore regulations on rest and driving hours.

Common Injuries in a Birmingham Trucking Accident

In Birmingham, truck accidents often result in a range of serious injuries due to the size and force of commercial trucks. Here are some of the most common injuries:

• Whiplash – This neck injury occurs when the head is suddenly jerked forward and then backward, typically in rear-end collisions. Whiplash can cause neck pain, stiffness, headaches, and, in severe cases, long-term discomfort and reduced mobility.
• Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) – TBIs occur when a sudden impact causes damage to the brain. Symptoms can range from concussions to severe brain damage, affecting cognitive functions, memory, and motor skills. TBIs can also lead to significant and sometimes permanent changes in a person’s life.
• Spinal Cord Injuries – Damage to the spinal cord can result in partial or complete paralysis, depending on the injury’s severity and location. These injuries can cause loss of movement and sensation below the injury site and may require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.
• Fractures and Broken Bones – The force of a truck collision can cause severe fractures or broken bones in various parts of the body, including the arms, legs, ribs, and pelvis. These injuries often require surgical intervention and long recovery periods.
• Internal Injuries – The force associated with a trucking accident can cause damage to internal organs such as the liver, spleen, kidneys, or intestines. These injuries can be life-threatening and may require emergency surgery.
• Soft Tissue Injuries – This category includes injuries to muscles, tendons, and ligaments, such as tears, strains, and sprains. While these injuries may not be visible, they can cause significant pain and affect a person’s ability to perform daily activities.
• Lacerations and Abrasions – Cuts and scrapes can occur from contact with broken glass, debris, or other sharp objects in the aftermath of a truck crash. These injuries may vary from minor to severe, sometimes requiring stitches or other medical treatment.

Fighting the Insurance Company After a Birmingham Truck Accident

Fighting the insurance company after a truck accident in Birmingham can be challenging, but with the right approach, you can increase your chances of getting a fair settlement. At Alexander Shunnarah Trial Attorneys: Accident & Injury Lawyers, here’s how we can help:

• Thorough Investigation – We start by conducting a comprehensive investigation of the crash. This includes gathering evidence such as police reports, witness statements, and photographs of the scene. We also review medical records to understand the full extent of your injuries. This thorough documentation helps us build a strong case against the insurance company.
• Expert Analysis – We may consult with experts such as accident reconstructionists, medical professionals, and financial analysts to support your claim. These experts provide valuable insights into how the accident happened, the effects of your injuries, and the long-term financial effects. Their testimony can strengthen your case and counter any arguments that the insurance company makes.
• Accurate Valuation of Damages – We carefully calculate all damages you’ve suffered, including medical expenses, lost earnings, and pain and suffering. By valuing your claim accurately, we ensure that the insurance company understands the full extent of your losses – and the compensation you deserve.
• Negotiation Skills – Insurance companies often offer low settlements in an attempt to save themselves money. We use our negotiation skills to advocate for a fair settlement. We have experience in countering low offers and can push for a higher amount based on the evidence and expert opinions we’ve gathered.
• Legal Representation – If settlement negotiations fail, we are prepared to take your case to court. Our legal team will handle all aspects of litigation, from filing paperwork to presenting evidence in court. We fight aggressively to ensure that your rights are protected and that you receive the compensation you deserve.

By leveraging our legal knowledge and resources, we aim to level the playing field and hold the insurance company accountable for fair compensation in your Birmingham truck accident case.

Steps to Take After a Birmingham Trucking Crash

After a truck accident in Birmingham taking specific steps can significantly help your case:

1. First, retain important documents. Gather and keep copies of the police report, medical records, and any correspondence with the insurance company. This documentation is crucial for proving your claim and assessing damages.
2. Next, complete your medical treatment regimen. Follow all prescribed treatments and attend follow-up appointments. Your medical records will not only document your injuries but also demonstrate that you have been proactive in your recovery. This can strengthen your case by showing that you are taking your health seriously and following medical advice.
3. Finally, speak with a knowledgeable Birmingham truck accident attorney right away. At Alexander Shunnarah Trial Attorneys: Accident & Injury Lawyers, we can provide valuable guidance and help you navigate the legal process. We will handle communications with the insurance company, ensure that all deadlines are met, and work to maximize your compensation.

Speak with an Experienced Birmingham Truck Accident Lawyer Today

At Alexander Shunnarah Trial Attorneys: Accident & Injury Lawyers, our skilled attorneys are prepared to fight aggressively for your rights and maximize the compensation you receive for your truck accident injuries. For a free case evaluation and legal consultation with a knowledgeable Birmingham, Alabama, truck 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