If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident in Pleasant Valley, Alabama, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.
For decades, the experienced car accident attorneys at Baxley Maniscalco have been fighting for the rights of injured victims in Pleasant Valley and across Alabama.
We understand how devastating a serious car crash can be, which is why we work tirelessly to get our clients the maximum financial recovery they deserve.
What to Do After a Car Accident in Pleasant Valley
The moments after a car accident in Pleasant Valley can be frightening and chaotic, but the steps you take are crucial for protecting your rights.
Here's what to do if you're ever involved in a crash in Pleasant Valley:
- Move to a safe area and call 911 to report the accident, especially if anyone is injured.
- Exchange contact, insurance, and vehicle information with the other driver(s) involved.
- Take photos/videos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and injuries, if possible.
- Seek immediate medical attention, even if you think your injuries are minor.
- Avoid apologizing or accepting blame at the scene.
- Contact a trusted Pleasant Valley car accident lawyer as soon as possible.
Staying calm and gathering evidence can greatly strengthen your claim, but your first priority should always be seeking necessary medical care.
Common Car Accident Injuries
Car crashes can cause extremely serious and life-altering injuries, including:
- Traumatic brain injuries;
- Spinal cord injuries/paralysis;
- Broken/fractured bones;
- Whiplash and other neck/back injuries;
- Lacerations/disfigurement;
- Internal organ damage; and
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
No matter how minor your injuries may seem initially, it's crucial to get examined by a doctor. Many car accident injuries have delayed symptoms that can worsen without proper medical treatment.
Even low-speed collisions can potentially cause significant injuries. Here are some of the most common examples seen in car accidents in Pleasant Valley cases:
- Whiplash;
- Concussions;
- Knee injuries;
- Shoulder injuries;
- Sprains/strains; or
- Cuts/bruises.
Prompt medical care is essential, as injuries that seem minor at first can potentially become severe chronic conditions without treatment.
Causes of Pleasant Valley Car Accidents
Identifying the cause(s) of your accident is a key part of determining fault and liability. Some of the most frequent causes include:
- Distracted driving (texting, eating, grooming, etc.);
- Impaired driving (drugs, alcohol, fatigue);
- Speeding/reckless driving;
- Running red lights/stop signs;
- Improper turns or lane changes;
- Vehicle defects or maintenance issues; and
- Poor road conditions or signage.
Many accidents are also caused by a combination of these factors. An experienced car accident in Pleasant Valley lawyer will thoroughly investigate to uncover the true cause(s).
Even if fault seems obvious, defective vehicle parts or hazardous road conditions may have also played a contributing role, such as:
- Tire defects/blowouts;
- Brake failure;
- Faulty headlights or taillights;
- Poorly marked construction zones; and
- Debris/objects in the road.
Determining the exact cause(s) is critical for establishing liability and recovering full compensation for your damages.
Damages You Can Recover
If another driver was fully or partially at fault for causing your car accident in Pleasant Valley, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses (current and future);
- Lost wages/income;
- Reduced future earning capacity (for disabilities);
- Vehicle repair/replacement costs;
- Household out-of-pocket costs;
- Pain and suffering; and
- Emotional distress/mental anguish.
In fatal accidents, certain family members may be able to file a wrongful death claim for additional damages like loss of consortium, funeral/burial costs, and more.
Statute of Limitations for Car Accidents in Pleasant Valley Claims
In Alabama, there is a strict two-year statute of limitations for filing most car accidents in Pleasant Valley injury claims. This means you must settle your claim or file a lawsuit against the at-fault party within two years of the accident date.
There are only a few rare exceptions that may "pause" the statute briefly, so it's critical to have an experienced car accident in Pleasant Valley attorney evaluate your case as soon as possible. Missing this deadline will likely make you ineligible for any compensation.
Contributory Negligence in Alabama
Alabama follows a strict "contributory negligence" rule for personal injury cases like a car accident in Pleasant Valley. Under this rule, if you are found even 1% at fault for contributing to the accident or your own injuries, you are completely barred from recovering damages.
This makes it crucial to work with a skilled lawyer who can gather evidence proving you were not negligent at all. The insurance company will look for any reason to claim you were contributorily negligent to avoid paying your full claim amount.
Working With the Insurance Companies
Insurance companies are for-profit businesses, so they are incentivized to pay out as little as possible or deny valid injury claims. Their adjusters may seem friendly but may use anything you say to shift blame onto you or downplay your injuries.
This is why it's so important to have your own legal representation when dealing with insurance companies.
Your Pleasant Valley car accident lawyer will handle all communications and negotiate forcefully to recover the maximum compensation you deserve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Navigating the aftermath of a car accident in Pleasant Valley can raise many questions.
Below, we address some common inquiries to help you better understand your rights and legal options.
What Should I Do Immediately After a Car Accident in Pleasant Valley, Alabama?
After a car accident in Pleasant Valley, it's crucial to prioritize your safety and well-being.
Seek medical attention for any injuries, document the scene, exchange information with the other parties involved, report the accident to law enforcement, and notify your insurance company.
How Long Do I Have to File a Car Accident Claim in Alabama?
In Alabama, the statute of limitations for filing a car accident claim is typically two years from the date of the accident.
However, it's essential to consult with an attorney as soon as possible to ensure you meet all deadlines and preserve your right to compensation.
What Damages Can I Recover in a Car Accident in Pleasant Valley Lawsuit?
Victims of a car accident in Pleasant Valley, Alabama, may be entitled to various types of damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damage, and more.
The specific damages available depend on the circumstances of the case.
What Factors Can Affect the Outcome of My Car Accident Case?
Several factors can influence the outcome of a car accident case, including the severity of injuries, the extent of property damage, the availability of evidence, the credibility of witnesses, insurance coverage limits, and the skill of your legal representation.
Each case is unique, so it's essential to consult with an attorney to assess your specific situation.
Can I Still Pursue Compensation If I Was Partially at Fault for the Accident?
Alabama follows a "contributory negligence" rule, meaning that if you're found to be even partially at fault for the accident, you may be barred from recovering compensation.
However, it's essential to discuss the specifics of your case with an attorney, as there may be exceptions or defenses that apply.
Call Baxley Maniscalco for a Free Consultation
If you or a loved one has been hurt in a car wreck in the Pleasant Valley area, don't try to handle your claim alone against the insurance companies' lawyers.
The experienced and aggressive car accident attorneys at Baxley Maniscalco have successfully recovered millions for our clients, and we'll fight tirelessly to maximize your compensation.
Contact us for a free, no-obligation consultation about your case. We stand ready to assist you, and we never charge any fees unless we recover money for you.
Don't wait until it's too late—contact us for a free and confidential consultation.