Navigating the aftermath of a pedestrian accident can be a daunting experience. In Alabama, where the streets of cities like Montgomery, Birmingham, and Huntsville witness a blend of pedestrians and vehicles daily, understanding the rights of injured walkers is important. This blog post aims to shed light on pedestrian accidents in Alabama, emphasizing the legal protections and recourse available to those who have suffered injuries. 
Pedestrian accidents often result in significant physical, emotional, and financial burdens. The injuries sustained can range from minor to life-threatening, and in some cases, may lead to long-term disability. As pedestrians, it’s essential to know that Alabama law provides avenues for seeking compensation and holding negligent parties accountable.
Legal Framework in Alabama
Alabama follows a fault-based system when it comes to traffic accidents, including those involving pedestrians. This means that the party responsible for causing the accident is also liable for compensating the injured party. For pedestrians, this typically involves the driver of the vehicle that caused the injury. However, establishing fault can be complex, and the contributory negligence rule in Alabama can complicate matters further.
Under Alabama’s contributory negligence law, if a pedestrian is found to be even slightly at fault for the accident, they may be barred from recovering damages. This stringent standard underscores the importance of obtaining skilled legal representation to navigate the nuances of your case effectively.
Rights of Injured Walkers
Pedestrians injured in a car accident have the right to pursue compensation for various damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. To assert these rights, the injured party must typically file a claim against the at-fault driver’s insurance company. In cases where insurance coverage is insufficient or the driver is uninsured, pursuing a personal injury lawsuit may be necessary.
It’s crucial for injured pedestrians to act promptly, as Alabama has a statute of limitations that restricts the timeframe within which a lawsuit can be filed. Waiting too long to take legal action could result in the loss of the right to seek compensation.
Steps to Take Following an Accident
If you’ve been involved in a pedestrian accident, taking the following steps can help protect your rights and strengthen your case:
Seek Medical Attention: Prioritize your health by getting medical treatment for your injuries. This also creates a record of the accident and its impact on your well-being.
Report the Accident: Notify the police so that an official accident report can be filed.
Document Everything: Collect and preserve evidence related to the accident, including photographs, witness contact information, and medical records.
Consult an Attorney: Engage a knowledgeable Birmingham injury attorney who specializes in personal injury law to guide you through the legal process and advocate on your behalf.
At The Harris Firm, we understand the profound impact pedestrian accidents can have on individuals and their families. Our commitment to providing compassionate, professional legal representation drives us to fight for the rights of injured pedestrians across Alabama. If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident, we encourage you to reach out for a consultation. Together, we can navigate the path toward justice and recovery.
Attorney Steven A. Harris regularly blogs in the areas of family law, bankruptcy, and real estate closings on this website. He is always available in any of the firm’s offices or by phone anytime for a consultation. Mr. Harris tries to provide informative information to the public in easily digestible formats. Hopefully you enjoyed this article and feel free to supply any feedback. We appreciate our readers and love to hear from you!