Car Accident Attorneys in Tuscaloosa, Alabama
Experienced car accident attorneys for those injured in Tuscaloosa, Alabama
Car accidents are a leading cause of injury, and at Prince Glover Hayes, we know what it means to families to recover from their losses in these traumatic events. If you or a loved one suffered injuries in a vehicle collision in Tuscaloosa or elsewhere in Alabama, reach out to our experienced team of car accident attorneys for a free consultation.
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How can we help
- Why choose Prince Glover Hayes for your car accident claim?
- Common causes of car accidents in Tuscaloosa
- Understanding Alabama car accident laws
- How Prince Glover Hayes helps car accident victims
- Compensation for car accident victims in Tuscaloosa
- FAQs about car accident cases in Alabama
- Do you have a lawyer near me in Tuscaloosa who can handle my car accident claim?
Why choose Prince Glover Hayes for your car accident claim?
Prince Glover Hayes has been representing clients for over 40 years. Our team has secured some of Alabama’s largest settlements and verdicts. We understand what it takes to build a successful claim and aren’t afraid to take on large insurance companies and corporations.
Common causes of car accidents in Tuscaloosa
Car crashes happen frequently in Alabama. In 2022, one took place every 3 minutes and 38 seconds. According to Drive Safe Alabama, 986 people lost their lives in those collisions.
Distracted driving
Distracted driving, which often involves the use of phones, is one of the leading causes of serious car crashes in the US. Reports found that in 2022, 3,308 people died in collisions that involved distractions. However, that number is based on police data, and more fatal crashes likely involved these devices.
Driving under the influence (DUI): Drunk driving remains a leading cause of fatal crashes. In 2022, 13,524 people reportedly died in drunk driving collisions. Many more sustained severe injuries.
Speeding and reckless driving
Speeding is extremely common, likely making many drivers feel it isn’t a major concern. However, speeding alone factored into 29% of all deadly crashes in 2022. Those cases may involve speeding and other dangerous behavior, like drunk driving or using a phone.
Fatigue or drowsy driving
Fatigued driving is often an overlooked risk. However, between 2017 and 2021, driving drowsy contributed to 17.6% of deadly crashes.
Defective auto parts or road conditions
Most crashes result from driver error, but that’s not always the case. Defective car parts can also lead to dangerous crashes. Faulty tires, brakes, and lights are some of the leading causes of crashes caused by a problem with a vehicle. However, even safety equipment, like airbags, can cause unexpected and severe harm if defective.
Understanding Alabama car accident laws
Alabama has strict laws about car accident liability. It’s important to discuss claims with an experienced Tuscaloosa car crash attorney to learn how they might apply in your case. You will need to show that another driver is entirely at fault for the collision because they behaved negligently. Drivers who engage in any of the above behaviors, like driving drunk, speeding, or using their phone, are examples of likely negligence.
Not only is it important to find an attorney who can make the strongest possible claim that another person is at fault for your injuries, but you will also need to take action quickly. Alabama law allows for just two years from the date of the accident to file a claim.
How Prince Glover Hayes helps car accident victims
Car accidents can cause catastrophic injuries that leave victims and their families struggling to afford medical care or cope with lost income. It’s a lot to worry about. However, if another person’s negligence led to your injuries, you may be able to file a claim that will help you recover for those losses. In those cases, we can help. Here are some of the tasks we can perform so that you can focus on your recovery.
Investigating the accident
Collecting evidence and interviewing witnesses can be critical to your car accident claim. Not only will evidence help prove fault, but it will also demonstrate your damages. Medical bills are part of that picture, but we may also want to have a deposition with your doctor and others to get a full picture of your losses, past and future. In severe cases, we may also work with experts who can estimate your financial losses related to your reduced earning capacity. Gathering as much information as possible is critical for building a strong claim.
Negotiating with insurance companies
Insurance companies may be willing to settle your claim – unfortunately, they may think they can get away with offering a mere fraction of what your case is truly worth. Insurance companies want to pay as little as possible, so they are unlikely to agree to a reasonable settlement until your attorney puts some pressure on them. Our team can handle these negotiations and all of your communications with the insurer to help prevent them from using your words against you or trying to intimidate you into accepting less than you deserve.
Litigating when necessary
One of the best ways to get a fair settlement is to be willing to take a claim to court. If insurers aren’t willing to agree to a favorable settlement, filing a lawsuit might be the best course of action. We can work with you to make that decision. Even if your claim becomes a lawsuit, it may not go to trial. Most cases settle.
Compensation for car accident victims in Tuscaloosa
A successful car accident case should compensate you for your true losses. For instance, you might recover for your:
- Medical expenses (current and future).
- Lost wages and loss of earning capacity.
- Permanent injury.
- Mental and emotional distress.
- Pain and suffering.
- Property damage.
- Punitive damages in certain cases (i.e., drunk driving).
The actual amount you recover will depend on several factors. One of the most important considerations is the severity of your injuries. More serious injuries, like paralysis, will generally lead to higher damages than less severe injuries, like a broken leg.
FAQs about car accident cases in Alabama
If you suffered injuries in a vehicle collision, you probably have questions, including the following:
How long does it take to settle a car accident case?
Settling a car accident case can be quick, or your case may become a lawsuit that takes years. The more complicated the claim, the more likely it will take more time. You will need the time to build that claim, including by gathering medical information proving your injuries' severity. The last thing you want to do is take a quick settlement for a lower amount before you even understand the true cost of your injuries.
Do I have to go to court?
You might have to go to court, but remember that most cases never make it to trial. In fact, jury trials have been declining for years, and only around 5% of cases are resolved in trials. Most cases will result in settlements, although some might settle as the trial date seems to be fast approaching.
How much does it cost to hire a car accident attorney?
If you are concerned that hiring an attorney will be expensive, don’t be. Most personal injury lawyers work on a contingency basis. If your claim succeeds, our payment comes out of that settlement or verdict. If your claim isn’t successful, you don’t pay us. This structure helps ensure you and your lawyer have the same motive – to get a substantial settlement in your case. It also prevents you from having to pay upfront, which would be challenging for many accident victims. If you have questions about the fee structure, just ask us. We’re happy to review everything beforehand so you understand how the process works.
Do you have a lawyer near me in Tuscaloosa who can handle my car accident claim?
Yes, Prince Glover Hayes has an office located at 2311 University Boulevard, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401. Contact us if your injuries prevent you from visiting our office. We can schedule a call or video consultation or meet you in another location to discuss your claim.
Contact the car accident attorneys at Prince Glover Hayes in Tuscaloosa
If you or a family member suffered a serious injury in a car accident caused by another person’s negligence, you need legal representation. At Prince Glover Hayes, we’re prepared to fight to secure the compensation you need. Call or fill out our contact form to schedule a free consultation today to discuss your case with an experienced Tuscaloosa car accident lawyer.