What should I do after a Florence car accident?

Experiencing an accident can be overwhelming, leaving you with numerous questions and concerns. Rest assured, we are here to provide guidance and help alleviate your worries. After being in an accident, it is important to take certain steps to ensure the necessary actions are in place. Here are some key things to consider:
1. Assess the situation: Firstly, immediately assess the condition of yourself and others involved in the accident. If anyone requires medical attention, call for emergency assistance right away. Prioritizing the well-being and safety of everyone involved is crucial.

2. Document the accident: If it is safe to do so, gather information about the accident scene. Take photos or videos that capture the position of vehicles, damages sustained, street signs, and any relevant details. This documentation will prove helpful when filing an insurance claim or providing evidence in legal proceedings.

3. Contact your insurance company: Notify your insurance provider about the accident as soon as possible, regardless of who you believe is at fault. Provide them with accurate and detailed information about the incident. They will guide you through the claims process and inform you of any next steps.

4. Collect witness information: If there were witnesses present at the scene, gather their contact details. Eyewitness testimony can be valuable in establishing a clearer picture of the events leading up to the accident. Inform your insurance company about these witnesses, as their statements may assist in determining fault.

5. Seek legal advice: If liability is disputed or the accident resulted in severe injuries, it may be beneficial to consult with a personal injury attorney. An experienced lawyer can help protect your rights, provide legal guidance, and navigate the complexities of your case. They can also assess the credibility of witnesses and gather further evidence to support your claim.

6. Preserve evidence: Preserve any evidence related to the accident, such as medical records, repair estimates, or bills. This documentation will assist in demonstrating the extent of your injuries, property damage, and expenses incurred as a result of the accident.

7. Follow medical recommendations: Prioritize your health and follow the treatment plan outlined by your medical professionals. Attend all doctor’s appointments and promptly address any concerns or new symptoms that arise. Document all medical procedures, diagnoses, and expenses related to your injuries.

Remember, every accident scenario is unique, so it is essential to inquire about your specific case with legal professionals or insurance representatives. By following the necessary steps and seeking appropriate assistance, you can better navigate the aftermath of an accident and work toward a resolution.

How do you handle medical bills and wage loss after an accident?

Dealing with the financial burden of medical bills and missed work after an accident can be overwhelming. Here are some ways to handle this strain:
1. Seek legal assistance: Consider reaching out to a local personal injury attorney who specializes in accidents in your area. They can help you navigate the legal process and work to secure the financial compensation you deserve. These professionals will work alongside insurance companies, using their expertise to negotiate on your behalf.

2. Team approach: A reputable law firm will employ a team of attorneys, paralegals, and assistants who will work together to ensure a favorable outcome for your case. This collaborative approach maximizes your chances of receiving a fair settlement for your injuries.

3. Prioritize your recovery: Your primary focus should be on your physical, mental, and emotional healing. Allow professionals to handle the legal aspects while you concentrate on recuperating. Regularly attending physical therapy appointments and accompanying your daughter to the chiropractor can take a toll on your work schedule, but it is crucial for your recovery.

4. Communicate financial strain: Convey the financial burden caused by medical expenses and missed work to your legal team. Make them aware of the physical therapy and chiropractic bills, emergency room visits, and prescription costs that are placing a strain on your finances. By understanding your economic situation, they can advocate for a settlement that properly addresses your financial needs.

5. Be cautious of insurance companies: Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, offering the bare minimum or nothing at all. Recognize that their primary objective is profit, which may not align with your best interests. By working with a dedicated legal team, you can have peace of mind, knowing that professionals are fighting for your well-being and financial recovery.

6. Ensure justice for your family: The ultimate goal is to bring justice to you and your loved ones. A trusted law firm will go above and beyond to fight for your rights and provide the compensation you deserve. Their mission is to alleviate the strain on your wallet and help you regain control over your life.

Remember, if you or someone you know is dealing with the financial aftermath of an accident, seeking legal assistance can be crucial in handling medical bills and missed work effectively.

How important are witnesses in a car accident?

Witnesses play a crucial role in a car accident case, as their testimonies can significantly impact the outcome of a lawsuit. When involved in a car accident, it is essential to prioritize gathering information from witnesses present at the scene. These individuals can provide valuable insight into the events leading up to and following the accident, potentially strengthening your case.

Obtaining the contact information of witnesses is vital, as it allows your attorney to reach out to them during the investigation. Their statements can provide an unbiased account of how the accident unfolded, including factors such as the actions of the parties involved, the sequence of events, and any other pertinent details. This information can support your version of events and potentially negate any false or conflicting statements made by the opposing party.

In a lawsuit, the credibility of witnesses can heavily influence the judge or jury. A truthful and reliable witness who can provide clear and accurate details can significantly bolster your case, potentially leading to a favorable outcome. On the other hand, witnesses with conflicting or questionable testimonies can weaken your position and provide leverage to the opposing side.

Given the importance of witnesses, it is paramount to have a competent attorney by your side when dealing with the legal complexities of a car accident case. A skilled attorney, such as those at our firm, Ferguson & Ferguson, can guide you through the process, help you gather witness information, and explain how to use this evidence to support your claim effectively. Should you have any questions or concerns, our team is here to provide the support and assistance you need to navigate your car accident case successfully.

What are the most common car accident injuries?

More than half of all accidents in Alabama result in an injury to the driver or his or her passengers. If you or a loved one sustains injuries in a car accident in Alabama, you and your loved ones have a right to be compensated for your injuries. Many of the injuries we see include the following:

• Burn injuries
• Catastrophic injuries
• Broken bones
• Lacerations
• Bruising
• Whiplash includes:
  • Extreme neck pain
  • Strong headaches
  • Tingling or numbness that moves into the arms or hands
  • Loss of balance or coordination
  • Instability in the neck
  • Concussions
  • Spinal issues
  • Mental health issues, including depression, insomnia, increased irritability, or behavioral changes
• Concussion
• Eye injury
• Seatbelt injuries
• Chest injury
• Degloving injury
• Spinal cord injury
• Traumatic brain injury
• Amputation
• Paralysis
• Wrongful death
• Soft tissue injuries
• Hip injuries
• Shoulder injuries
• Strained ligaments
• Back muscle sprains
• Scrapes and Cuts
• Contusions
• Broken ribs
• Internal injuries
• Jaw injuries
• Loss of teeth
• Neck injuries
• Crushed larynx
• Crushed trachea
• Broken neck
• Pelvic injuries
• Penetration injuries

Damages You Can Recover

If you have been injured in a car accident, you may be able to recover the following damages:

• Hospital and Doctor Bills
• Towing Charges
• Prescription Bills
• Home Care by Healthcare Providers
• Repairs to Car
• Loss of Value of Car Due to Property Damage
• Future Medical Costs
• Loss of Income or Earning Capacity
• Mental Pain and Suffering
• Physical Pain and Suffering
• Loss of Enjoyment of Life
• Punitive Damages
• Disfigurement
• Loss of Consortium

Types of Florence Car Accidents

There are numerous types of motor vehicle accidents. Our attorneys have the expertise to handle all types of auto accidents. Our firm has represented clients who have been involved in the following types of accidents:

• Rear-end collisions in which one car is struck by another in the back of the vehicle.
• Head-on collisions in which the front ends of both vehicles collide usually cause serious injuries.
• Motorcycle accidents usually cause severe injuries or death.
• Bicycle accidents.
• Pedestrian accidents usually involve very serious injuries or death.
• Side impact or T-bone collisions in which one vehicle is struck on either the driver or passenger side of the vehicle.
• Rollover accidents in which a vehicle flips or rolls over. Often SUVs or trucks.
• A single-vehicle accident in which one car collides with stationary structures, rolls over, leaves the roadway, or otherwise crashes without hitting another car.
• Multi-car pileup in which three or more vehicles are involved in the accident, often resulting in chain-reaction crashes.
• Commercial vehicle accidents in which 18-wheelers and other large vehicles strike other vehicles.
• Construction zone accidents usually involve pedestrian workers.
• Dangerous road accidents.
• Delivery truck accidents.
• Elderly driver accidents.
• Emergency vehicle accidents.
• Intersection accidents.
• Back-up accidents: Back-up accidents occur when a negligent driver reverses and the rear end of their vehicle collides with another car or pedestrian, commonly seen with hit-and-run accidents.
• Sideswipe accidents result when the side of one vehicle collides with the side of another vehicle traveling in a parallel or opposite direction.
• Truck accidents
• Recreational vehicle accidents
• Wrongful death claims
• Hit-and-run accidents
• Underinsured/uninsured motorist accidents
• Collisions with animals
• Teen car accidents

Florence Car Accident FAQ’S

1. What is the fee structure for handling the case?

The attorney will handle the case on a contingent fee basis, which means that the client will not owe any legal fee unless compensation is obtained.

2. How will the attorney prepare the case for trial and proceed to court if a reasonable settlement is not reached?

The attorney will prepare the case for trial and will be ready to proceed to Circuit Court if the insurer refuses to agree to a reasonable settlement.

3. How will the attorney keep the client updated on the progress of negotiations and settlement offers?

The attorney will keep the client informed about the progress of the negotiations and any settlement offers.

4. How will the attorney prevent medical debt collection efforts during the claim process?

The attorney will take measures to prevent any medical debt collection efforts while the accident claim is pending.

5. How will the attorney handle negotiations and communication with insurance companies?

The attorney will handle all negotiations and communication with the insurance companies on behalf of the client.

6. How will the attorney calculate the extent of losses, including medical bills, lost income, future care needs, and living assistance?

The attorney will calculate the extent of losses, including hospital bills, lost income, future medical care, and the need for living assistance.

7. How will the attorney locate all available insurance policies to provide compensation for injuries?

The attorney will search for all insurance policies that may be available to provide compensation for injuries.

8. How will the attorney investigate the car accident and determine the liable parties?

The attorney will conduct a thorough investigation of the car accident to identify all parties who may be held liable.

9. When can a spouse recover for “loss of consortium”?

In some cases, the spouse of the accident victim may be entitled to damages, including a loss of companionship or affection under “loss of consortium.”

10.Can you recover for emotional suffering in a Florence car accident?
Emotional suffering can be compensated for the accident victim and their loved ones if they have endured any as a result of the accident or injuries.

11. What is pain and suffering under Alabama law?

“Pain and Suffering” refers to the physical pain and suffering caused by the accident and is determined by the nature and extent of injuries.

12.Can you recover lost wages after a Florence car accident?

If you’re unable to resume work normally following your accident or injury, you may deserve to be compensated for wages you would have earned otherwise.

13. How are you compensated if you cannot return to work?

Depending on the extent of your injuries, you may recover all post, current, and future medical expenses, including ER visits, hospital care, medical devices, etc. It’s best to consult a Florence injury lawyer to learn more about the specifics.

Free Attorney Consultations

Our experienced car accident attorneys take your case and your recovery very seriously. We offer the lowest fee guarantee in Alabama. We also offer no-obligation, free consultations to all car accident victims in Alabama. We can help you get the compensation you deserve for your personal injury case. We have offices in Decatur and Huntsville, and we represent personal injury cases throughout all of Alabama. Call Ferguson & Ferguson today at (256) 534-3435 or fill out the free initial consultation form below. We’re available to take your call 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and 365 days a year. Call now.

Huntsville office location:
303 Williams Avenue SW
Suite 321
Huntsville, AL 35801

Decatur Office Location:
211 Oak Street, NE
Decatur, AL 35601