Pedestrian Accident Lawyers in Tuscaloosa Alabama

Pedestrian Accident Lawyers in Tuscaloosa, Alabama

Fierce advocates for pedestrians injured by vehicles in Tuscaloosa, AL

Pedestrians are the most vulnerable road users. Walking near cars, trucks, and other vehicles can be dangerous, especially when drivers are irresponsible or careless. Regardless of how careful a pedestrian is, they may suffer devastating harm because of a driver’s negligence. At Prince Glover Hayes, we fight to recover compensation for pedestrians who suffer injuries because of driver negligence. If you’ve been hurt, contact our Tuscaloosa pedestrian accident attorneys to schedule a free case evaluation.

Free Consultation

How can we help

scales of justice lady

Why choose Prince Glover Hayes for your pedestrian accident case?

If you suffered injuries in a pedestrian accident, you need representation from an experienced personal injury lawyer. At Prince Glover Hayes, our lawyers have represented injury victims since 1979. Our track record speaks for itself – we’ve secured some of the highest settlements and verdicts in the state. If you sustained injuries in one of these accidents, reach out to learn how we can help you.

Our firms, Besley Allen and Prince Glover Hayes, have worked extensively as outside counsel for the State of Alabama in its efforts to hold accountable those responsive for the opioid crisis in this state.

Together, we have recovered settlements worth $728,206,685 for the state citizens.

Pedestrian accident facts in Alabama

Pedestrian accidents killed 112 people in 2022 and injured another 633. Unfortunately, pedestrian deaths in the state increased by a shocking 90% between 2013 and 2022. This drastic increase is also a national trend, even as vehicles come with more sophisticated safety technology. Part of the reason is that people have been buying larger vehicles, such as SUVs, which are more likely to cause severe harm when they strike a pedestrian. Statistics also show that more than three in four fatal crashes occurred after dark, emphasizing how important it is for drivers to slow down and use caution at night.

Causes of pedestrian accidents in Tuscaloosa

Pedestrian accidents can occur because of a variety of negligent behaviors. Some contributing factors include the following:

Driver negligence

Speeding, distracted driving, and failure to yield at crosswalks all create dangers for pedestrians. Drunk driving can make matters even worse, as can distracted driving, which has increased because of cellphone use.

Poor road design

Poor infrastructure design often puts pedestrians at increased risk. Areas that lack sidewalks, crosswalks, and traffic signals can force pedestrians to share space with vehicles, making them extremely vulnerable.

Pedestrian behavior

Pedestrians sometimes contribute to the accidents that injure them. It’s important to use caution when walking near the street, especially in places with poor lighting. Additionally, people should put their phones away when walking, especially near or on the road.

Common injuries in pedestrian accidents

If a crash between two vehicles can cause significant harm to the occupants, it’s no surprise that a collision between a vehicle and a person’s body is even more likely to lead to catastrophic harm. Some injuries that might result from pedestrian accidents include:

Liability in pedestrian accidents

Pedestrians injured by someone else’s negligence may be able to recover damages. Some possible parties that could be at fault include:

Drivers: Failing to yield, speeding, or driving while distracted or under the influence of alcohol are all possible negligent actions a driver may take that result in pedestrian injuries.

Government entities: Negligent roadway design and poor maintenance of pedestrian areas might increase the risk of injury in an accident.

Third parties: Manufacturers of defective auto parts or traffic control devices may be at fault, although far less often than drivers. However, as partially autonomous vehicles become more popular, manufacturers might be liable for pedestrian accidents more often.

Compensation available for pedestrian accident victims in Tuscaloosa

The total compensation for victims of pedestrian accidents will vary depending on many factors, including the severity of the injuries. Some of the types of damages that could be available in a successful claim include:

  • Current and future medical expenses
  • Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
  • Permanent Injury
  • Pain and suffering
  • Mental and Emotional distress
  • Funeral and burial expenses in wrongful death cases

Calculating damages is a complicated process that involves not only consideration of past medical expenses and lost wages but also the effect that injuries have had on your daily life and an estimation of future needs and ongoing treatments. It’s important to discuss possible compensation with a Tuscaloosa pedestrian attorney.

FAQs about pedestrian accidents in Tuscaloosa

If you’ve been injured in a pedestrian crash, you likely have questions. Here are some frequently asked questions and answers for anyone with a possible pedestrian claim:

What should I do if the driver flees the scene of a pedestrian accident?

Sadly, a shocking number of pedestrian accidents are hit-and-runs. In fact, some studies state that nearly one-quarter of pedestrian deaths involve a driver who flees the scene. It’s important for victims to file police reports in these cases so that the authorities can start searching for the responsible party. Even in cases where the person cannot be located, it might be possible to file an uninsured motorist claim. Reach out to an attorney to discuss your options.

How long do I have to file a pedestrian accident claim in Alabama?

In Alabama, you must file your injury claim within two years. Failing to meet the deadline can mean the court will refuse to hear your case. You should speak to an attorney right away – even though two years seems like a lot of time, starting the process sooner helps preserve evidence and means that witness memories will be fresh.

What if the accident was caused by poor road design?

In some cases, poor road or crosswalk design might lead to a pedestrian accident. If you think this might be the case in your claim, you should discuss your options with an attorney.

Pedestrian safety and prevention tips

Recovering damages can help you cover the costs you suffered due to a pedestrian accident, but it’s better to avoid these events altogether. Some ways to stay safe in the future include:

  • Use designated crosswalks and pedestrian signals
  • Wear reflective clothing and carry a flashlight when walking at night
  • Put your phone away when walking
  • Don’t walk in places where drivers would not expect to see you – like on busy roadways
  • If you have to walk on a road without sidewalks, face oncoming traffic

Do you have a lawyer near me in Tuscaloosa who can handle my pedestrian accident claim?

Prince Glover Hayes Team

Prince Glover Hayes has an office at 2311 University Boulevard, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401. If your injuries prevent you from visiting our office, contact us to arrange an alternative option, including a different meeting location or a video call.

Contact the pedestrian accident attorneys at Prince Glover Hayes

Pedestrian accidents are some of the most devastating on the road, and they are happening far too often. Our dedicated litigators are determined to hold irresponsible drivers in our community accountable for their actions. If you or your loved one sustained injuries in a pedestrian accident, call Prince Glover Hayes today or complete our contact form for a free consultation with one of our experienced Tuscaloosa pedestrian accident lawyers.