Scottsboro Car Accident

CAR ACCIDENT LAWYERS IN SCOTTSBORO AL

Scottsboro Car Accident Attorneys

If you or a loved one has recently been injured in a car accident in Scottsboro, Alabama, you may have the right to recover your damages by filing a personal injury claim. With so many personal injury attorneys in Alabama advertising on television, billboards, the internet and in phone books, finding the right car accident lawyer can be a challenge. For over 30 years we’ve helped thousands of car accident victims get the compensation they deserve. At Ferguson & Ferguson, we offer the only lowest fee guarantee in Alabama. We also offer no obligation free consultations to all car accident victims. Call 256-534-3435.

Types of Scottsboro 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. This usually occurs when someone is tailgating or following to close for the road or weather conditions. Rear-end accidents are among the most common type of crashes in Alabama.
• Head-on collisions in which the front ends of both vehicles collide usually causing serious injuries or death.
• Motorcycle accidents usually cause severe injuries or death. Often caused by cars not watching for motorcycle riders.
• Bicycle accidents.Usually serious injuries or death. Often caused by distracted driving.
• Pedestrian accidents usually involve very serious injuries or death. Walkers and joggers are usually seriously injured or die from these types of accidents.
• Side impact or T-bone collisions in which one vehicle is struck on either the driver or passenger side of the vehicle. This type of side impact crashes occurs when the front or back of one car collides with the side of another car.
• Rollover accidents in which a vehicle flips or rolls over. Often SUVs or trucks. Often caused by auto defects or from being t-boned.
• A single-vehicle accident in which A car strikes a ditch, car, tree or other object.
• Multi-car pileup in which three or more vehicles are involved in the accident.
• Commercial vehicle accidents in which 18 wheelers and other large vehicles strike other vehicles. Often caused by negligent truck drivers or drivers of cars pulling in front of trucks.
• Construction zone accidents usually involve pedestrian workers.
• Dangerous road accidents.
• Delivery truck accidents.
• Elderly driver accidents.
• Emergency vehicle accidents.
• Intersection accidents. Usually caused by someone running a red light or going through a stop sign.

Causes of Scottsboro Car Accidents

Statistics show that thousands are injured each year in automobile accidents in Scottsboro, Alabama. Car crashes can occur due to various reasons, and it’s important for drivers to be aware of them to promote safer driving practices. These reasons include driver fatigue, speeding, poor weather and road conditions, driver distractions, drunk driving, pedestrians, failure to yield, running red lights and stop signs, disregarding traffic signs, driving too fast for conditions, failure to stay in lane, failure to watch for motorcycles, failure to yield to pedestrians, following too closely, improper passing, reckless driving, wrong-way driving, texting and driving, drowsy driving, overweight trucking loads, defective vehicle parts, hazardous road conditions, confusing signs, potholes, construction zones, wet roads, road debris, icy or snowy roads, animals, and shoulder drop-offs.

It’s worth noting that every car accident is unique and can involve a combination of the common causes listed below. By understanding these factors and taking necessary precautions, drivers can help create a safer road environment for everyone. Remember, it’s important to prioritize safe driving practices, stay focused on the road, and follow traffic regulations to minimize the risk of accidents. There are various the most common causes of Alabama auto crashes:

• Driver fatigue
• Speeding: Speeding, whether exceeding the speed limit or driving too fast for conditions, can have deadly consequences. It reduces the driver’s ability to react to unexpected situations, increases the stopping distance needed to avoid collisions, and makes it harder to control the vehicle. Almost 1/3 of all fatal car crashes in the U.S. are caused by excessive speeding. Speed limits in Alabama are similar to much of the United States with a minimum of 15 mph in school zones and a maximum of 70 mph on some interstate highways. The speed limit is highly variable in some areas so make sure you check the signs. Here are the general speed limits across the state. School zones 15 mph
  Residential areas 25 mph
  Non-paved county roads 35 mph
  Highways 45-55 mph
  Roadways with 4 or more lanes 65 mph
  Interstate highways 70 mph
• Weather and road conditions: Fog, ice, floods, snow and heavy winds create driving hazards and limit visibility for safe driving.
• Driver distractions: Examples of distracted driving behaviors include passengers, talking or typing on a cell phone, eating, grooming, satellite radio, reaching for something inside the vehicle, or looking at something outside the vehicle. Anything that distracts the driver from the task of driving increases the chances of causing an accident.
• Drunk Driving: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs can impair judgment and reaction time, leading to accidents. It increases the likelihood of making poor decisions, reduces coordination and control, and affects the driver’s ability to perceive and respond to hazards on the road.
• Pedestrians: Walkers or joggers failing to watch for motor vehicles and not using cross walks.
• Failure to yield: Motor vehicles not yielding to other vehicles with the right of way.
• Running red lights and stop signs: Committing traffic offense and not yielding.
• Disregarding traffic signs
• Driving too fast for conditions: Driving to fast for weather and road conditions.
• Failure to stay in lane: Illegal lane usage and failure to use signals.
• Failure to watch for motorcycles: Drivers often texting, eating or not paying attention to the road.
• Failure to yield to pedestrians: Usually by not stopping for buses unloading or people in cross walks.
• Following to close: tailing is one of the most common causes of serious accidents in Scottsboro.
• Improper passing: Passing in dangerous areas and no passing zones.
• Reckless driving: Speeding, drunk driving and various other reckless maneuvers.
• Wrong way driving: Going the wrong way on exits, one way streets. Often caused by alcohol, improper signage and elderly drivers.
• Texting and driving
• Drowsy driving: Driving under the influence of drugs or driving while sleepy.
• Overweight trucking loads: Shifting load on 18 wheeler trucks.
• Defective vehicle parts: Product liability or defective maintenance of tires and equipment.
• Hazardous road conditions: Holes, drop offs other dangerous road defects.
• Confusing signs: Poorly placed signs.
• Potholes: Often negligence of private, city and county maintenance crews.
• Construction zones: Driving too fast in construction zones.
• Wet and icy roads: Bad weather conditions.
• Road debris: Ladders, chairs, tires and other items dropped on the road by unknown drivers.
• Shoulder drop-offs: Often negligent design or maintained roads.
• Night driving: Driving at night poses risks and challenges due to limited visibility and compromised depth perception. It becomes harder to see pedestrians, road signs, and other vehicles. Additionally, the glare from oncoming headlights can temporarily blind drivers, making it difficult to maintain focus and react to unexpected situations.

Each of these factors plays a significant role in increasing the risk of accidents on the road. By recognizing these potential dangers and practicing safe driving habits, Scottsboro drivers can help prevent the occurrence of these hazardous situations.

What to do After A Scottsboro Car Accident

• Immediately file an accident report with the police, sheriff or highway patrol, if the agency has not done so at the scene.
• Write down the name, address, insurance information, vehicle license number and driver’s license number of any and all persons involved in the accident. Record names, addresses and telephone numbers of all witnesses.
• Obtain photographs of the accident scene, all vehicles involved (before repairing) and any visible injuries to the parties involved, such as cuts, bruises, and scars.
• Do not discuss the accident or your injuries with anyone, with the exception of your doctor and your attorney.
• Do not consent to a recorded statement or sign any document without first reviewing it with your attorney. Innocent statements made by you attempting to assist an insurance adjuster can easily be misinterpreted and used to deny or minimize your recovery.
• Immediately seek medical attention and tell your doctor the nature and extent of your pain and injury, and how the injury occurred.
• Track Your Expenses.
  A strong claim clearly outlines the financial impact of your accident. Keep records of your:
  • medical bills,
  • mileage driven to doctors’ appointments,
  • rental car expenses,
  • time away from work,
  • and any other expenses your accident has caused.

How to Get an Alabama Motor Vehicle Crash Report

There are a few different ways to get an accident report after a car wreck in Alabama.  The easiest way is to download the crash report for $15 is on the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency’s website. According to Alabama Code 32-10-7, the police must turn in their report within 24 hours after completing the investigation of the car accident. The accident report may take up to 10 business days after the day of the accident for it to be available online. You must provide your name, your driver’s license number, or your accident report number to access your crash report. You will also need to use your email and your debit or credit card to pay the fees and obtain it.  The crash report will then be sent to your email within 48 hours. If you have problems, call the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency at (334) 242-4241. You can also go to an ALEA Driver License Office to  purchase a crash report at any of the locations in Alabama.

Filing a Car Insurance Claim in Alabama

There are a lot of car insurance companies, many of which have online options available to file a claim for injuries or for damage to your vehicle. Here are the websites where you can file claims with insurance companies:

• Allstate
• Alfa
• State Farm
• Liberty Mutual
• Nationwide
• GEICO
• Progressive
• Farmers
• USAA

When dealing with the insurance company after a car accident in Alabama, it is crucial to proceed with caution. As the aftermath unfolds, remember these key steps: ‘Do not discuss the accident or your injuries with anyone, with the exception of your doctor and your attorney.’ It is essential to protect your rights by refraining from disclosing sensitive information that could potentially harm your case. Additionally, ‘Do not consent to a recorded statement or sign any document without first reviewing it with your attorney.’ Innocent statements made with good intentions can easily be twisted to undermine your recovery. By following these steps diligently and seeking guidance from legal professionals, you can navigate the insurance claims process with confidence and safeguard your interests.

What are the legal steps after a Scottsboro car accident?

After an Alabama car accident, the legal process involves several key steps to ensure you receive proper medical treatment, assess the extent of your injuries, and handle insurance claims efficiently. Here is an overview of the process:

1. **Medical Treatment**: The first step after a car accident is to seek medical treatment for your injuries. It is crucial to fully understand the extent of your injuries before attempting to settle your claim. You may need to see multiple doctors, including specialists, to determine the necessary treatment to heal your injuries.

2. **Insurance Claims**: You will need to file a car accident claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance company. Additionally, you may need to involve your own insurance company if the at-fault driver is uninsured and you have coverage for Uninsured Motorist or Underinsured Motorist. Your attorney can help navigate these insurance claims process and advise you on the best course of action.

3. **Legal Representation**: It is advisable to secure legal representation from a car accident lawyer. Your attorney can handle communication with insurance companies, review insurance coverage details, assist with finding appropriate medical treatments, and help with car repairs and alternate transportation arrangements.

4. **Gathering Evidence**: Your attorney will collect all necessary documentation related to the accident, including medical records, bills, and other accident-related expenses. This information will be used to build a strong case for your claim.

5. **Demand Letter**: After completing medical treatments, your lawyer will send a demand letter to the defendant’s insurance company. This letter will outline the facts of the claim, including liability for the accident, medical treatments received and needed, extent of injuries, lost wages, and other damages.

6. **Negotiation and Settlement**: The insurance company may agree to the demand letter, or negotiations may continue with back-and-forth communication between your attorney and the insurance company. If a fair settlement cannot be reached, the next step is to file a lawsuit and prepare for trial.

7. **Trial Preparation**: If your case goes to trial, your attorney will handle all aspects of preparation, including gathering evidence, witness testimony, and legal arguments. Your attorney will advocate for your rights in the courtroom, presenting a strong case before a judge or jury.

By following these steps and seeking experienced legal representation, individuals involved in an Alabama car accident can navigate the legal process effectively to secure a favorable outcome for their claim.

What types of treatments are needed after a car accident?

After a car accident, the types of medical treatments that may be necessary can vary depending on the severity of the injuries sustained. Some common treatments include physical therapy, chiropractic care, acupuncture, steroid injections, nerve block injections, epidural injections, cervical fusion, lumbar fusion, open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) surgery, traction, myofascial release, and massage therapy.

Physical therapy is often recommended to help heal injuries resulting from car accidents, particularly those affecting the neck, back, shoulders, or joints. Chiropractic care can assist in realigning the spine to relieve pressure on nerves, while acupuncture may be beneficial for soft tissue damage and pain relief. Injections such as steroid injections, nerve blocks, and epidurals can help alleviate pain and inflammation in specific areas.

For more severe injuries, surgeries like cervical fusion and lumbar fusion may be required to stabilize the spine and prevent further damage. ORIF surgery may be necessary for broken bones that won’t heal properly with traditional methods. Traction and myofascial release techniques can also aid in reducing pain and restoring range of motion.

Additionally, massage therapy is often used to relax muscles, improve circulation, and reduce pain following a car accident. Each individual’s treatment plan will be tailored to their specific injuries and needs to ensure optimal recovery and pain management.

Car Accident Damages You Can Recover

The Law Office Of Ferguson and Ferguson is an experienced auto accident law firm with a long track record of obtaining for clients the compensation and accountability they deserve. An individual who negligently operates a motor vehicle may be liable for a wide variety of damages that an automobile accident can cause, including but not limited to the following:

• Disfigurement
• Loss of Consortium
• Medical Bills: This covers the costs of medical treatments, surgeries, medications, rehabilitation, and any other healthcare services required due to the accident.
• Lost Wages: : If the car accident causes victims to miss work or lose income, they may be entitled to compensation for the wages they would have earned during that period. Lost wages resulting from a car accident can have a significant impact on an individual’s financial situation. When a person is seriously injured by a negligent motorist, they may miss work hours and lose wages while they recover. This immediate loss of income can create financial strain, especially if the individual relies on their job for financial stability. In addition to the immediate impact, an accident can also affect the individual’s long-term earning potential. If the injuries sustained in the car accident prevent the person from returning to their previous job or pursuing their career path, their earning potential may be permanently diminished. This alteration in their career trajectory can have not only financial consequences but also emotional implications, as one’s sense of accomplishment and identity may be closely tied to their career success. Ultimately, the consequences of lost wages resulting from a car accident can be both financially and emotionally devastating.
• Mental and Emotional Distress: In addition to pain and suffering, victims may also be compensated for emotional distress, such as anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) that may arise from the accident.
• Out of Pocket Expenses
• Pain and Suffering: Victims of car accidents may be entitled to compensation for the physical and emotional distress they experience as a result of the incident.
• Property Damage: Compensation may be sought for the repair or replacement of any property damaged in the car accident, such as the vehicle itself or any personal belongings inside it.
• Permanent injury or disability: If the car accident leads to permanent disabilities or impairments, victims may be eligible for compensation to account for the long-term impact on their ability to work or live a normal life.
• Wrongful death: In cases where a car accident results in the death of a loved one, surviving family members may be eligible to seek compensation for the loss of their loved one’s financial support, companionship, and other related damages.

You deserve the best auto accident lawyer you can hire. Don’t let an insurance company decide what your personal injury claim is worth, contact us today. It’s our job to get you the money you’re truly owed.

How Much Money Can I Recover?

The amount of money you can recover in a car accident depends on a number of different factors including the following:

• Cost of your medical treatment
• Wages you lost because of the accident
• Pain and suffering
• How severe are your injuries
• Future medicals
• Impairment
• Scarring and disfigurement
• Emotional suffering
• Loss of consortium
• Insurance of liable party
• Your own uninsured/underinsured insurance
• Subrogation

What Evidence is Used for a Alabama Car Accident Injury Claim?

A car accident attorney in Alabama will use the following evidence in a lawsuit for injuries:

• Medical records documenting your treatment and injuries
• Medical bills showing the cost of necessary care caused by a car crash
• Lost wage calculations/Income taxes from clients’ employers.
• Doctor’s deposition regarding diagnosis, treatment, prognosis, and injuries sustained in the car crash
• Lifecare planners for those with catastrophic injuries for extended periods of time or a lifetime
• Witnesses to the accident
• Videos of the scene and vehicles involved in the wreck

There are several reasons why car insurance companies may deny claims. Here are some of the most common reasons:

• The policyholder was at fault for the accident. This is the most common reason for a denied claim. If the insurance company determines that the policyholder was more than 50% at fault for the accident, they may deny the claim altogether.
• The policyholder did not have the right coverage. If the policyholder did not have the right type of coverage for the type of accident that occurred, their claim may be denied. For example, if the policyholder only had liability coverage, they would not be covered for damages to their own car.
• The policyholder did not report the accident promptly. Insurance companies require policyholders to report accidents as soon as possible. If the policyholder waits too long to report the accident, the insurance company may deny the claim.
• The policyholder provided false or misleading information. If the insurance company believes that the policyholder lied about the accident or their injuries, they may deny the claim.
• The policyholder’s injuries were pre-existing. If the insurance company determines that the policyholder’s injuries were pre-existing, they may deny the claim for medical expenses.
• The policyholder has exhausted their coverage limits. If the policyholder’s claim exceeds their coverage limits, the insurance company may deny the claim.

If your car insurance claim has been denied, you have the right to appeal the decision. You should contact your insurance company and ask for a review of your claim. If you are still not satisfied with the outcome, you can file a complaint with your state’s insurance department.

How Long Do You Have to File a Personal Injury Claim in Alabama?

The law in Alabama allows a person a limited amount of time to file a claim in regard to an accident, making it very important to contact an attorney immediately. In Alabama, there is a general two-year statute of limitations. This means that you have two years from the time of the car accident to file a lawsuit, or your case is gone forever. The statute is different if you are a minor. Even if you think the deadline to file your case might have passed, there may be other ways to extend the deadline. Alabama law requires that all claims against municipalities are filed within six months of an accident. Talk to an attorney as soon as you can to preserve your claim.

Where Do You File Personal Injury Lawsuits in Scottsboro?

In Scottsboro, personal injury lawsuits involving more than $20,000 in dispute are filed in the Circuit Court. Scottsboro is the county seat of Jackson County, and the county courthouse is located there. When it comes to personal injury claims related to negligence, they are specifically filed in Jackson County Circuit Court in Scottsboro. If an insurance company refuses to settle fairly, attorneys are prepared to take the case to court to seek a just resolution. Personal injury lawsuits are considered civil matters in Alabama.

How can Scottsboro car accident attorneys help in complex car accidents?

Our Scottsboro car accident attorneys can aid in determining the causes of complex car accidents by collaborating with traffic reconstruction experts. These experts analyze various factors to provide a detailed understanding of how the accident occurred. Additionally, in cases where severe injuries are involved, attorneys may work with financial planners. This collaboration helps in projecting the long-term costs associated with the injuries sustained by the client. By assessing the impact of these injuries on the individual’s ability to earn income over their lifetime, the attorneys can provide valuable insights into the financial implications of the accident.

When Do I Need An Car Accident Attorney

If you’ve been injured in a car accident, you need a lawyer if:

• It’s not clear who is at fault for the accident
• Commercial vehicle involved in the case
• Driver intoxicated or texting
• Multiple parties or causes of the accident
• Insurance company is stalling
• Pre-existing injuries
• You have questions about your legal rights

Don’t let the insurance companies intimidate you into accepting less than you deserve. We are here to help you with your case.

Scottsboro Car Accident FAQ

Q&A With a Alabama Car Accident Attorney

After an auto accident, you often have questions. Our goal is to make you better understand your rights. After reading the below FAQ, we encourage you to give us a call. We are here to help.

What is the focus of the Car Accident Attorneys at Ferguson & Ferguson?

Randy W. Ferguson focuses on representing individuals involved in car accidents. With over 65 years of combined legal experience handling car accidents, the dedicated team at Ferguson & Ferguson is committed to fighting for our clients.. We are not intimidated by the large insurance companies, and are prepared to take them on. We offer free consultation, where individuals can discuss their specific case with the experienced attorneys at Ferguson & Ferguson. Additionally, clients can rest assured that they will not be responsible for attorney fees unless we recover in their case.

Is there a car accident lawyer near me?

Absolutely! Ferguson & Ferguson, a car accident law firm, is based in Huntsville, and Decatur, Alabama. We understand the importance of having a lawyer nearby during such challenging times. While our physical locations are in Huntsville and Decatur, we are dedicated to serving clients throughout the entire state of Alabama. Further, we handle serious injury and death case in all 50 states. So, regardless of where you are in Alabama, you can count on our expertise and assistance.

In case you are critically injured and unable to travel to Huntsville or Decatur, rest assured that we are prepared to come to you. We are committed to visiting you in the hospital or rehabilitation center to ensure that we can provide the proper support and guidance during your legal journey.

Additionally, we understand that modern technology can bridge distances, which is why we also offer virtual conferences and telephone consultations. This means that even if you are unable to meet in person, we can still discuss your case, answer your questions, and provide legal advice remotely.

At Ferguson & Ferguson, we prioritize convenience and accessibility for our clients. So, whether you need an in-person meeting, a virtual conference, or a telephone consultation, we are here to cater to your needs and ensure that you receive the highest level of legal representation no matter where you are located in Alabama.

What are some examples of common car accident injuries?

Common car accident injuries can manifest in various forms, affecting different parts of the body. Head and neck injuries, such as concussions, whiplash, or cervical spine injuries, are prevalent in car accidents. Back injuries, such as herniated discs, sprains, or strains, are also commonly reported. Additionally, car accidents can cause spinal cord injuries, leading to paralysis or loss of sensation in certain parts of the body. Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) are another significant type of car accident injury, which can result in cognitive impairments, memory loss, or even coma. Fractured bones, ranging from minor fractures to severe breaks, are frequently observed. Soft tissue injuries, like sprained ligaments, strains, or contusions, can also occur in car accidents. Internal organ injuries, such as organ ruptures or internal bleeding, may result from the impact of a collision. Traumatic amputation or limb loss can happen in severe accidents. Moreover, car accidents can cause burn injuries, cuts, lacerations, and sadly, sometimes even fatalities.

What are my rights if another driver caused my accident and injuries?

Under Alabama law, you have a right to recover for your property damage and your personal injury damage. Under most circumstances, your case can be settled without filing a lawsuit.

What is the Alabama guest passenger statute?

The Alabama Guest Statute is a legal provision that pertains to individuals who are injured while riding in someone else’s car. It specifically addresses the legal rights and responsibilities of guests or passengers who are involved in car accidents in the state of Alabama.

Under the Alabama Guest Statute, guests or passengers who are injured in a car accident may face certain limitations when it comes to seeking compensation for their injuries. Essentially, this statute places restrictions on the ability of a guest to file a personal injury lawsuit against the driver of the vehicle they were traveling in, even if the driver was at fault for the accident.

The primary intention of the Alabama Guest Statute is to protect drivers from unnecessary lawsuits brought forth by their own passengers. However, it can sometimes result in guests being unable to recover damages from negligent drivers, even if they have sustained injuries due to the driver’s actions.

It’s important to note that there are exceptions to the Alabama Guest Statute. For example, if the driver was operating the vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or if they were acting in a reckless or intentional manner, the guest may be able to pursue legal action against the driver.

In summary, the Alabama Guest Statute is a legal provision in Alabama that places limitations on the ability of passengers to sue drivers for personal injuries suffered in car accidents. While it aims to protect drivers from unwarranted legal actions, it can also restrict the rights of injured passengers to seek compensation for their injuries.

How much is my claim worth?

This is the most common question we receive at our initial free consultations. It all depends on your injuries, medical bills, lost wages, available insurance coverage and your attorney. Our goal is to get you the maximum compensation possible in your case.

Should I settle with the insurance company?

Insurance companies are not in the business of paying out money. They like to take your money, but not pay it out. Their goal is to pay you nothing or as little as possible. You should always talk to an attorney before settling any auto accident case.

How long do I have to file a claim after a auto accident accident?

The statute of limitations for personal injury claims in Alabama is two years from the date of the incident. The statute of limitations is different for minors. If you don’t settle or file before two years, your case is gone forever.

What is Huntsville’s new texting law?

Huntsville has recently made amendments to its texting-while-driving ordinance to promote safer road practices. Ferguson & Ferguson, a law firm based in Huntsville, Madison County, is at the forefront of raising awareness and advocating for these changes. The ordinance now includes stricter penalties for individuals caught texting while driving, reinforcing the importance of focusing on the road.

With the revised ordinance, Huntsville is committed to ensuring the well-being of its residents. Ferguson & Ferguson, known for serving clients throughout the state of Alabama, has taken proactive steps to support this initiative. In addition to their office in Huntsville, they are now extending their services to hospitals and rehabilitation centers, visiting those critically injured who are unable to come to them.

Furthermore, recognizing the importance of accessibility and convenience, Ferguson & Ferguson offers virtual conferences and telephone consultations. This enables individuals to consult with their team of experienced attorneys about legal matters relating to the amended ordinance, such as contesting citations or seeking compensation for accidents caused by texting while driving.

With their dedication to providing personalized legal services, Ferguson & Ferguson is contributing to the overall goal of Huntsville’s amended texting-while-driving ordinance – to minimize distracted driving and ensure the safety of all those on the road.”

What do I need to know about rear-end collisions?

Rear-end collisions are a common type of car accident that occurs when one vehicle collides into the back of another vehicle. It is important to have a clear understanding of what to expect in the event of a rear-end collision, as well as the necessary steps to take following such an incident.

Causes and Factors: Rear-end collisions typically occur due to several factors, including tailgating, distracted driving, sudden braking, and slippery road conditions. Understanding these causes can help drivers anticipate potential hazards and take precautionary measures to avoid such accidents.

Common Injuries: Rear-end collisions can result in various injuries, ranging from minor to severe. Whiplash is a prevalent injury, causing neck and back pain due to the rapid back-and-forth movement of the head during impact. Other injuries can include head trauma, spinal cord injuries, broken bones, and soft tissue damage. It is crucial to seek medical attention promptly after a rear-end collision, even if you initially feel fine, as some injuries may not manifest immediately.

Legal Aspects: Determining liability in a rear-end collision is usually straightforward because the driver who hits the vehicle in front is typically at fault. However, there may be instances where liability is disputed, such as in cases involving sudden lane changes or if the leading vehicle has malfunctioning tail lights. Understanding the legal aspects surrounding rear-end collisions can help individuals protect their rights and seek appropriate compensation for any damages or injuries incurred.

Insurance Claims: Following a rear-end collision, it is essential to contact your insurance provider and report the incident. Documenting the accident thoroughly, including taking photos of both vehicles, gathering witness statements, and obtaining a copy of the police report, can strengthen your insurance claim. It is advisable to consult with legal professionals who specialize in car accident cases to ensure that you receive fair compensation for property damage, medical expenses, and any resulting emotional distress.

Preventive Measures: Although you cannot control the actions of other drivers on the road, there are steps you can take to reduce the risk of being involved in a rear-end collision. Maintaining a safe following distance, practicing defensive driving techniques, minimizing distractions while driving, and ensuring that your brake lights are in working order are all effective preventive measures. By being proactive and vigilant behind the wheel, you can significantly reduce the chances of a rear-end collision.

In conclusion, being aware of the causes, potential injuries, legal aspects, insurance claims, and preventive measures associated with rear-end collisions is crucial for all drivers. By familiarizing yourself with this information, you can be better prepared in the event of an accident and take appropriate action to protect yourself and your rights.

Scottsboro, Alabama Driving Laws

Knowing Alabama’s driving laws will help you stay safe in Huntsville. Some of the general Alabama driving rules include:

Blood Alcohol Limits: Alabama law now limits blood alcohol to 0.02% for drivers under 21. The rules allow drivers over 21 a maximum BAC of 0.08%.
Pedestrian Right-of-Way: Pedestrians always have the right of way against vehicles, even if the pedestrians disobey the law. Although pedestrians can be contributorily negligent.
Automotive Right-of-Way: At Alabama intersections, no vehicle has the right of way, except those granted by traffic signals and stop signs.
Emergency Vehicles: You must allow 500 feet between your vehicle and any emergency vehicle. Alabama move over law requires you to move over one lane if an emergency vehicle is in the lane next to you. If you can’t move over you must slow down 15 miles below the speed limit.
Mandatory Seat Belts: Passengers must now wear seat belts in front and back seats. Toddlers and infants must be secured in a child’s safety seat or booster seat.
Parking and Turning: The law in Alabama permits a right turn at red lights as long as you follow any traffic instructions. Making U-turns is legal if you can make them safe while not impeding traffic.
Parking Laws: Generally, parking laws for cities are posted, but beware of parking at curbs painted yellow, red or in front of a bridge.

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 sustain 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

Types of Damages You Can Recover in A Car Accident

In Alabama you may be able to recover the following damages:

• Medical bills
• Future medical expenses
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional injuries
• Scarring and disfigurement
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Lost work wages and future earnings
• Loss of consortium

How Much Does it Cost to Hire a Scottsboro Car Accident Attorney?

You do not have to worry about the cost to hire the best car accident lawyer in Huntsville. The attorneys at Ferguson & Ferguson take car accident cases strictly on a contingency basis. A contingency fee means that our pay is contingent upon you receiving money. We only get paid out of the settlement paid by the insurance company. Our personal injury lawyers charge no money up-front and only get paid if we get money for you.

Why Hire Scottsboro Car Accident Lawyers (Abogados) Ferguson and Ferguson

The law offices of Ferguson and Ferguson takes pride in giving each client individual and personal attention.

• We are committed to excellent client service.
• Our Huntsville car accident attorneys have been helping folks injured in a car accident for decades.
• We care about our clients, and have patience.
• Free phone consultation 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Saturdays
• Free office consultation as late as 7 p.m. and Saturdays also
• Locations near you
• We answer all our clients calls, or return them promptly.
• We keep our clients informed of the status of their case.
• All car accident claims are handled on a contingency fee basis. We only get paid if we win.
• Our car accident attorneys charge no upfront costs.
• We make sure that our clients understand each step of their case.
• We have great compassion for the physical, emotional, and financial problems that our clients suffered, and will do everything possible to get them through their difficult time.

Why Hire Ferguson & Ferguson

Having a knowledgeable Scottsboro personal injury attorney on your side can bring several advantages when dealing with a legal case following an injury. Firstly, such an attorney can alleviate your stress and allow you to concentrate on your recovery process. Their expertise and experience can provide you with guidance and reassurance during what may be a stressful and challenging time. Additionally, a skilled personal injury attorney familiar with the local legal landscape can offer reliable representation tailored to your specific circumstances. This level of support can be crucial in helping you seek justice and fair compensation for injuries caused by others.

Having a trusted legal team like by your side after a car accident can provide peace of mind to individuals and their families in various ways. The experience and expertise of an established law firm specializing in cases related to motor vehicle accidents can offer reassurance during a challenging time. This support can help alleviate the stress and uncertainty that often accompany legal proceedings, allowing individuals to focus on their recovery and well-being while the legal team handles the intricacies of the case. The personalized attention and compassionate approach we give clients assures that they have a strong advocate fighting for their rights and best interests every step of the way. Our Scottsboro, Alabama car accidents lawyers have extensive experience representing people who have been hurt in car crashes in Alabama. If you would like to schedule a free no obligation consultation at one of our conveniently located offices in Decatur and Huntsville, then call us today at 256-534-3435. Our car accident attorneys are available 24/7. We can help.

Huntsville Office Location:
303 Williams Avenue SW
Suite 321
Huntsville, AL 35801

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