Know Your Rights as a Pedestrian if You Are Hit in Alabama
Walking is an everyday activity that many of us do. However, sometimes pedestrians can be involved in traffic accidents and suffer severe injuries as a result of being hit by a vehicle. If you ever find yourself in such a situation in the state of Alabama, it’s important to know your rights and the actions you can take to protect yourself legally. Below, we will explain some key aspects you should consider.
- Driver’s Responsibility
In Alabama, drivers have an obligation to maintain a reasonable duty of care toward pedestrians on public roads. This involves obeying traffic rules, paying attention to pedestrians, and taking necessary measures to avoid hitting them. If a driver fails to fulfill their duty of care and hits you, they may be held liable for your injuries and damages.
- Right to Seek Compensation
If you are injured as a pedestrian due to a driver’s negligence, you have the right to seek fair compensation for your injuries and damages. This may include reimbursement for medical expenses, loss of income, pain, and suffering, as well as other related damages. To do this, it’s crucial to have the support of a personal injury lawyer who can help you file a lawsuit and seek the compensation you deserve.
- Statute of Limitations
It’s important to note that in Alabama, there is a limited time frame to file a personal injury lawsuit, including pedestrian accidents. This time frame is known as the «statute of limitations.» Generally, in Alabama, the statute of limitations to file a personal injury lawsuit is two years from the date of the accident. It’s essential to take legal action as soon as possible to not miss the opportunity to seek compensation.
- Gathering Evidence
After a pedestrian accident, it’s imperative to gather as much evidence as possible to support your case. This can include obtaining contact information from the driver and witnesses, taking photographs of the accident scene, collecting police and medical reports, and keeping a detailed record of your injuries and related expenses. The more evidence you have, the stronger your case will be, and the more likely you are to receive fair compensation.
- Consult with a Personal Injury Lawyer
When you suffer injuries as a pedestrian due to a car accident, it can be overwhelming to face the legal process on your own. For this reason, it’s highly recommended to seek the advice of a personal injury lawyer in such cases. An experienced personal injury lawyer will understand the complexities of Alabama laws and provide you with the necessary legal representation to protect your rights.
A personal injury lawyer will help you:
- Evaluate your case: They will review the details of your accident, gather evidence, and assess the viability of your claim. They will provide you with a clear understanding of your rights and the legal options available to you.
- Negotiate with insurance companies: Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts. An expert personal injury lawyer will negotiate with insurers on your behalf to ensure you receive fair and adequate compensation.
- Represent you in court: If a satisfactory settlement with the insurance company is not reached, a personal injury lawyer will be prepared to take your case to court. They will represent you and fight for your rights before a judge and jury.
Remember, if you are hit by a car as a pedestrian in Alabama, you have legal rights and options to seek fair compensation for your injuries and damages. Don’t face the consequences of a traffic accident alone. Seek the support of a personal injury lawyer to guide you and defend your interests.
Please note that the articles we share are only an informational guide and do not constitute legal advice. Each case is unique, so it’s important to consult a qualified lawyer for personalized advice based on your particular situation.
If you or a family member has been a victim of a pedestrian accident, you can contact Abogados Centro Legal at 205 940 2233 or schedule your free consultation.
