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Huntsville, AL, affectionately dubbed the "Rocket City," has transformed as dramatically as a rocket launch. It was even the meeting area where Alabama petitioned for statehood. From its humble beginnings as a tranquil farm town, albeit the largest in the territory, it has soared to become one of Alabama's most rapidly expanding metro areas. Today, Huntsville buzzes with innovation and brims with new experiences at every turn, making it an exciting place to call home. In fact, it is the most populated city in Alabama, with 221,933 citizens calling it home. Yet, this growth brings its own challenges, notably an increase in traffic and, consequently, a rise in vehicular accidents.
Thankfully, advancements in automobile safety technology have been a beacon of progress, outfitting modern vehicles with an array of features designed to protect passengers from harm. Despite these advancements, the reality remains stark: motor vehicle crashes are still a frequent occurrence, and their impact on human lives can be profound and heartrending.
A traffic accident in Alabama can leave you with serious car accident injuries, emotional trauma, expensive property damages, and years of medical expenses. Luckily, you may be able to seek financial relief through a car insurance claim. If this doesn’t work, a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault party might reimburse you for your damages instead. After a serious motor vehicle accident, contact Wettermark Keith Huntsville car accident attorneys to fight for your rights to financial compensation. The attorneys at our law firm handle all types of vehicle accidents, wrongful death, and personal injury cases. Let our attorneys help you with your automobile accident too. Contact a car accident lawyer at the Huntsville Wettermark Keith office today.
ALABAMA CAR ACCIDENT STATISTICS
The number of fatal car crashes in the country has grown at an alarming rate, rising from 36,835 in 2018 to 42,795 in 2022. A closer look at each state can be even more sobering. In 2022, a wreck was reported every 3 minutes in Alabama, a higher rate compared to 2020, in which a wreck was reported every 3 minutes and 55 seconds. In 907 fatal crashes, 986 people died in them, compared to 2020 in which 932 people died in 853 fatal crashes.
In 2022, fatal car accidents occurred the most between 4:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m., and almost 3 out of 5 people killed were not using seat belts. In a lifetime, ordinary Alabama drivers have more than a 40% chance of involvement in a crash with a fatality or injuries while operating a motor vehicle.
When you examine these statistics, it's tempting to hesitate before hitting the road again. However, it's crucial to bear in mind that the majority of accidents stem from human error. In fact, 29% of fatal accidents occurred because of speeding. By utilizing defensive driving techniques and safe roadway practices, drivers and their families can be much safer on the road.
If you or a loved one does experience a roadway accident or wrongful death, contact a car accident attorney at the firm of Wettermark Keith. Our lawyers have represented many drivers of car accidents and have dealt with numerous insurance companies. We can help you file a claim, build a case, and then fight for the compensation you deserve and need.
Top Reasons For Car Accidents in Huntsville
Unfortunately, the trend in fatal crashes has been on the rise in recent years, and there's no immediate sign of this trend reversing. It's more important than ever to keep your eyes scanning the roads. Paying close attention to driving conditions and being prepared for any unexpected events can significantly enhance your safety. Staying alert and maintaining a watchful eye on other drivers is key to navigating traffic more securely. Common factors contributing to car accidents include:
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
Driver Fatigue
Tailgating
Improper Lane Changing
Failing to Yield the Right of Way
Breaking Roadway Rules
Regardless of the underlying cause, Wettermark Keith is equipped to identify the responsible parties and advocate for your legal rights. Our goal is to ensure you receive fair compensation for any injuries or damages you may have sustained.
Understanding Negligence in Huntsville Car Accident Cases
The heavy toll, both emotionally and financially, following a car accident in Huntsville can be somewhat alleviated when compensation is awarded to offset the burden of those injuries. This compensation is contingent upon demonstrating that the defendant's negligence directly led to the accident.
Negligence serves as the cornerstone of any personal injury case in Alabama. The state's legal landscape is characterized by diverse interpretations of negligence laws.
Four factors determine whether or not the defendant was negligent:
Duty of Care: In the context of car accidents in Alabama, duty of care refers to the responsibility of drivers to ensure the safety of others on the road, including fellow drivers and pedestrians. This entails exercising reasonable care while operating a vehicle.
Breach of Duty: This occurs when a driver fails to uphold their duty of care, such as by driving recklessly or violating traffic laws.
Causation: This means that in breaking their vow to exercise reasonable care, the other driver directly caused your accident and subsequent injuries.
Damages: This refers to the harm suffered by the injured party as a consequence of the accident, which may include medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
It's crucial to note that Alabama operates under a contributory negligence law, which means that if you're found even slightly at fault for the accident, you may not be eligible for compensation. However, it's important not to assume fault without a thorough investigation. Let us evaluate your case and fight for your rights.
At Wettermark Keith, we understand the challenges you face and are here to help. Our experienced team specializes in advocating for victims of negligence, ensuring they receive the compensation they deserve. If you've been injured due to someone else's negligence, don't hesitate to reach out to us today for a free consultation.
COMMON INJURIES FOR CAR ACCIDENT VICTIMS
The nature of injuries people face following car accidents depends largely on whether or not they were wearing a seat belt. Correctly using a seat belt significantly reduces the likelihood that your injuries will be severe or life-threatening. Put on your seat belt every time you enter a motor vehicle and lower the chances of incurring a life-altering injury. But even with such protection, some injuries can always power through. Such injuries include:
Skull and Bone Fractures
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
Whiplash
Chest and Lung Injury
Internal Organ Damage
Pelvic Injury
Knee and Lower Extremity Injuries
Internal Bleeding
Lacerations and Abrasions
Wrongful Death
Even if an injury seems minor and you experience little pain, always seek medical attention after an accident to be examined for more serious internal trauma. First responders can check for personal injury at the accident scene, then send you to a nearby medical facility for a doctor's thorough evaluation. This is important because auto accident injuries can lead to long-term disabilities or permanent scarring and disfigurement. Wettermark Keith lawyers know how to get the maximum compensation for serious and life-changing losses. Take time to heal, but don’t forget to file your claim with an attorney, otherwise, you may exceed the statute of limitations.
DO I NEED A CAR ACCIDENT ATTORNEY?
Many people ask if they need a personal injury attorney for a car accident injury or wrongful death case. Insurance adjusters will tell an accident victim that lawyers are unnecessary, but beware! The adjuster is working for a company’s best interests....not yours! The insurance industry is in business to make profits. Insurers want you to negotiate with them directly, without an attorney, because their company most likely will pay out less compensation. Insurance companies employ numerous techniques to diminish and deny claims. For example, an insurance company might wait to address your claim until the statute of limitations runs out.
Having the right personal injury lawyer to represent you can even the playing field in settlement negotiations. In general, accident victims represented by an experienced personal injury law firm, such as a car accident lawyer at Wettermark Keith, walk away with significantly more money than those who attempt to do it alone.
Our attorneys are familiar with insurance company tactics and know-how to handle negotiations for your benefit, making sure you get everything your case is worth. A car accident lawyer knows how and where to find vital crash information. Evidence at the accident scene, medical records, police reports, and eyewitness testimony will be thoroughly investigated and used to support your case. Wettermark Keith will litigate your case in court if necessary. We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you won’t pay a penny until you get your compensation. Get started with our legal services by scheduling a free consultation.
COMMON DAMAGES IN CAR CRASH CASES
A successful car accident lawsuit could provide compensation for both tangible and intangible damages suffered as a result of the crash, benefiting you and your family. At Wettermark Keith, we possess decades of experience and expertise in litigating claims to optimize the likelihood of success. Throughout the entire process, we are committed to advocating for your best interests and vigorously challenging the defendant to achieve favorable outcomes. Types of compensation we may assist you in recovering include:
Medical Bills
Lost Wages
Travel Fees
Legal Fees
Quality of Life Loss
Vehicle Repairs
Property Damages
Pain and Suffering
Counseling
Wrongful Death
Punitive Damages
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, your child can receive compensation for injuries sustained in a car accident. A parent or guardian must file the claim on their child’s behalf, as minors cannot sue on their own. Compensation can cover medical expenses, pain and suffering, and future care needs. An experienced Huntsville car accident lawyer can help ensure the claim is properly handled and that any compensation is protected for the child’s future.
In Huntsville, Alabama, the statute of limitations for filing a car accident claim is two years from the date of the accident. This means that you must file your lawsuit within two years of the accident, or you risk losing your right to seek compensation for your injuries or damages. It’s important to act promptly and consult with a lawyer to ensure you meet all necessary deadlines and protect your legal rights.
Yes, if you’re self-employed and injured in a car accident, you can still claim compensation for lost wages. While traditional wage documentation like pay stubs may not apply, you can provide evidence of your income through tax returns, bank statements, invoices, or contracts to show the income you’ve lost due to your inability to work. An experienced car accident lawyer can help you gather the necessary documentation to support your claim and ensure you are compensated for both past and future lost income.
If you believe you are at fault for the car accident, it's still important to speak with a Huntsville car accident lawyer. Alabama follows pure contributory negligence laws, which means that even a small percentage of fault on your part can bar you from recovering compensation. However, an attorney can help investigate the circumstances of the accident to determine the true cause and whether any other factors—such as the other driver’s actions—contributed to the crash. Even if you think you were at fault, a lawyer can ensure your rights are protected and explore all options for potential compensation.
The timeline for a car accident claim in Huntsville can vary depending on the complexity of the case, the severity of the injuries, and whether liability is disputed. On average, a straightforward claim can take several months to settle, especially if insurance companies agree on the extent of the damages and liability. However, if the case involves significant injuries, multiple parties, or disputes over fault, it may take 1 to 2 years or longer to reach a resolution, especially if the case goes to trial. Working with an experienced Huntsville car accident lawyer can help speed up the process by ensuring all necessary evidence is gathered and negotiations are handled efficiently.
If you were driving a company vehicle at the time of the wreck, your employer's insurance may cover the damages, but it depends on the circumstances. If the accident occurred while you were performing work-related duties, your employer's insurance policy (such as commercial auto insurance) may be responsible for covering the costs. However, if the accident happened while you were using the vehicle for personal reasons, your personal auto insurance might apply. In either case, it's important to consult with a car accident lawyer to understand your rights and ensure that you pursue the correct path for compensation, especially if there are any complications regarding liability or insurance coverage.
No recovery, no fee - guarantee
At our Huntsville car accident law firm, we understand that dealing with the aftermath of a car crash can be overwhelming, both physically and financially. That’s why we offer our legal services on a contingency fee basis. This means you don’t have to worry about paying any legal fees upfront. We only get paid if we win your case and secure compensation on your behalf.
Our contingency fee structure is designed to make high-quality legal representation accessible to everyone, regardless of their financial situation. You can focus on your recovery while we handle the legal complexities. Our goal is to ensure you get the compensation you deserve without the added financial stress of hourly billing or expensive retainers.
Experienced Car Accident Injury Lawyers
If you were involved in an Alabama car accident in Madison, Limestone County, or the North Alabama area, call a Huntsville car accident lawyer from Wettermark Keith. If you’re looking for reliable, trustworthy, hard-working law firm experts to handle a car accident with injuries or wrongful death, Wettermark Keith has the experience and expertise to get your case settled with maximum compensation. We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you won’t pay a penny until you get your compensation. Contact the Huntsville personal injury law office of Wettermark Keith.
Wettermark Keith™, with offices located throughout Alabama, Tennessee, and Florida, has an excellent reputation as one of the most accomplished personal injury firms in the country. Wettermark Keith’s reach is not only regional, but it also includes a diverse range of practice areas, including personal injury cases, auto wrecks, trucking wrecks, nursing home abuse, medical malpractice, on-the-job injuries, social security disability, and veterans’ disability claims, to name just a few. At Wettermark Keith, we believe in taking cases personally. Our purpose is to practice with care and compassion - to tell our client’s stories and make their voices heard. We do this by building strong relationships based on constant communication and an unwavering dedication to truth and trust. Winning cases isn’t our goal - caring for you is. Winning is just how we show it. As we say, It’s more to us, it’s personal.