Traffic accidents can drastically change lives, especially when they involve pedestrians. When motor vehicles collide with the unprotected human body, the consequent injuries can be severe, sometimes fatal. It is essential for you, whether you are a motorist or a pedestrian in Alabama, to understand the causes, consequences, and liability attached to pedestrian accidents.
Several potential causes can contribute to a pedestrian accident. Speeding, distracted driving, reckless or aggressive driving, drunk driving, and poor weather conditions are some common elements. Sometimes, factors such as inadequate street lighting or obstructed sidewalks force people onto the road and into the path of vehicles, leading to accidents. Understanding these causes helps in comprehending the responsibility that both drivers and pedestrians have in maintaining road safety.
Ensuring the safety of pedestrians is a shared responsibility. Laws regulated by the Alabama Department of Public Safety stipulate that drivers must yield the right of way to pedestrians crossing within any marked or unmarked crosswalk. Additionally, pedestrians should avoid carelessly stepping into the path of a closeby vehicle that cannot stop in time. Adherence to these laws is vital to reducing pedestrian accidents.
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Despite the various laws, pedestrian accidents are often a result of driver negligence. Some fail to yield the right of way to pedestrians or overlook traffic signals. Other instances include drivers turning right on red without noticing the incoming pedestrian or simply driving under the influence.
Understanding who is at fault or liable in a pedestrian accident can be complex and usually requires the help of an experienced personal injury lawyer like Stephen Thompson. In Alabama, both the driver and the pedestrian can share the fault, making it a challenging situation to navigate. Alabama follows the contributory negligence rule, which can dismiss any compensation if the pedestrian was at fault, even to a minute extent. Hence, enlisting professional legal aid is crucial in getting key evidence and handling such cases.
After an incident, it's best to consult a personal injury lawyer immediately to protect your interests. An attorney like Stephen Thompson not only possesses an in-depth knowledge of Alabama's pedestrian laws but also has years of experience in dealing with accident claims. Your lawyer will conduct an investigation, gather evidence, consult with experts if required, and advocate for your rights. They will also negotiate with insurance companies, whose first offer is generally not in the victim's best interest.
Communication with the insurance company is best delegated to your attorney, who will strive to obtain the best compensation for you. If the case requires, they will take it to court as well. Remember, it's not just about dealing with the immediate physical trauma but also coping with potential future medical expenses, loss of earnings, and the overall mental anguish.
Finally, it is essential to remember that the statute of limitations in Alabama allows you to file a personal injury claim within two years from the date of the accident. This is another reason why availing the help of a knowledgeable lawyer soon after your accident would be beneficial in taking timely action.
In summary, pedestrian accidents in Alabama can be caused by numerous factors, with liability potentially falling on both the driver and pedestrian. Understanding the nuances of liability and the contributory negligence rule is critical for victims seeking compensation for their injuries. Stephen Thompson is a seasoned personal injury lawyer in Alabama with a particular focus on pedestrian and motorcycle accident cases, ready to support victims throughout their compensation claims journey.
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During your Initial Strategy Session, I will asist you in creating a strategy on how to best pursue your claim, whether it be the result of a Car Accident Claim, 18 Wheeler Injury, or, Alabama Workers' Compensation Claim. At your Initial Strategy Session, you will receive the following:
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