Decatur Auto Accident Attorney

DECATUR AL AUTO ACCIDENT LAWYER

Best Decatur AL Auto Accident Attorney near Me

Have you been injured in a auto accident in Decatur, Alabama, caused by someone else’s negligence?  Are your medical bills piling up, and the other driver’s insurance company is giving you the runaround? If you or a loved one have been injured in an auto accident in Decatur, you need an experienced attorney. Traffic incidents are the source of thousands of personal injury lawsuits in Alabama each year. Even though there are fewer drivers on the road today because of the pandemic, the automobile accidents that do happen are much more serious. As more people return to the roads, not all of them are paying attention while driving, leaving a trail of property damage, injuries, and death.

According to ALEA, troopers investigated a total of 31,717 traffic crashes, which resulted in 11,070 injuries, and included 560 fatal injuries in 2023. Crashes declined by 273, however, injuries increased by 156 in 2023 compared to 2022 totals. More than 40,000 people die annually in the United States in motor-vehicle crashes. Alabama has seen a decrease in accidents and deaths in 2023. Alabama has reported that bicycle, pedestrian, and motorcycle accident deaths have risen in 2022-2023, and more people in Alabama were injured badly enough to require medical attention. When you have been seriously injured in an auto accident, you need to call the attorney of serious accident victims call when they have been injured. Randy W. Ferguson is Decatur’s premier automobile accident lawyer. If you or anyone you know has suffered an injury in an auto accident, contact us for a free case evaluation. We offer no obligation, FREE CONSULTATIONS. Home and hospital visits are available if you are unable to come to our Decatur office. Call now. Call 256-534-3435 or 256-350-7200. We are here to help.

Do I Need an Attorney after an Auto Accident in Decatur, Alabama?

Retaining an attorney after a car wreck in Morgan County may not be the first thing on your mind after a wreck. However, making sure your lawyer is experienced is important, especially when you have suffered serious injuries in a motor vehicle accident.

• An attorney can assist you in what to do after the accident. This includes getting the police report, giving recorded statements, notifying your insurance company, notifying the other parties’ insurance company, and explaining what compensation you can recover. If you’ve suffered serious injuries or a death in your family, our attorneys can help you negotiate compensation for your auto accident claim.
• Help explain how to get proper medical treatment. A personal injury lawyer can also help you with medical bills and loss of income. You need a Decatur attorney who can help you get medical treatment, hire experts, and help with loss of income. The attorneys at Ferguson & Ferguson can help you every step of the way.
• An attorney can advise you whether to settle your case quickly or to file suit. They can also advise you on contributory negligence, property damage, and future medical expenses.
• Our attorneys can also file a lawsuit if necessary, gather your medicals, and prepare your case for trial.

If you have been in an auto accident in Decatur, it may be in your best interest to hire an experienced personal injury attorney. Contact our attorneys now and find out your legal rights.

Who is at Fault in a Decatur Car Wreck

In rear-end collisions, the driver hitting the other vehicle from behind is usually at fault. While there are circumstances that change liability in these accidents, they are very hard to prove. few and far between. By the Alabama rules of the road, you are required to leave enough room between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of you so that you can stop.

In a left turn collision, the driver making the turn is almost always at fault, unless they have a green arrow. That’s because all other vehicles usually have the right of way over a left-turning vehicle. The police report will often determine liability, even though it is not admissible in court. It is difficult to get around the details of the official police report, even if it is incorrect.

Types of 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 A car strikes a ditch, car, tree, or other object.
• Multi-carMulti-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.
• Construction zone accidents usually involve pedestrian workers.
• Dangerous road accidents.
• Delivery truck accidents.
• Elderly driver accidents.
• Emergency vehicle accidents.
• Intersection accidents.

Causes of Auto Accidents

Thousands are injured each year in automobile accidents in Decatur, Alabama. There are various causes of auto crashes including:

• Lower gas prices mean more people on the road not paying attention
• Driver fatigue
• Speeding: Almost 1/3 of all fatal car crashes in the U.S. are caused by excessive speeding.
• Weather and road conditions: Fog, ice, floods, snow, and heavy winds create driving hazards and limit visibility for safe driving.
• Driver distractions: Some common distractions are passengers, cell phones, satellite radio, hands-free devices, and outside distractions.
• Drunk Driving
• Pedestrians
• Failure to yield
• DVD players, music headphones
• 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 to close
• Improper passing
• Reckless driving
• Wrong way driving
• Texting and driving
• Construction zones
• Wet roads
• Road debris
• Icy or snowy roads
• Shoulder drop-offs
• Drowsy driving
• Overweight trucking loads
• Defective vehicle parts
• Hazardous road conditions
• Confusing signs
• Potholes

What to do After An Auto 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 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, except 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.

Hospitals Serving Decatur, Alabama

People who are injured and require emergency care in Hartselle or Decatur, Alabama have two choices when it comes to medical care. If you have suffered serious trauma in your auto accidents you will normally be transported to either Decatur Morgan Hospital Decatur or Decatur Morgan Hospital Parkway Campus. If you are in either hospital recovering from your injuries, we are available 24-7 to discuss your case. In most instances you will receive at least four bills when you are transported to one of these hospitals. The hospital bill, radiology bill, emergency physician bill and the ambulance bill. If necessary, you may receive other treatment and bills from orthopeadic surgeons and other physicians. You may be worried about how you will pay your medical bills and monthly bills. If necessary, we can connect you to companies that do low interest loans to cover your living expenses and medical bills while you recover. Our injury attorneys can help guide you through the process of recovering for your injuries. Decatur has two hospitals in Morgan County. They are:

• Decatur Morgan Hospital – Decatur Campus
  1201 7th St. S.E.
  Decatur, Alabama 35601
  Phone: (256) 341-2000
• Decatur Morgan Hospital – Parkway Campus
  1874 Beltline Rd. S.W.
  Decatur, Alabama
  Phone: (256) 973-2000

What are the Most Common Auto Accident Injuries in Decatur, Alabama Accidents?

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
• 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, including abdominal injuries, internal bleeding, injuries to organs and collapsed or punctured lungs
• Jaw injuries
• Loss of teeth
• Neck injuries
• Crushed larynx
• Crushed trachea
• Broken neck
• Pelvic injuries
• Penetration injuries

Common reasons for insurance injury denials in Alabama

• Injury unrelated to accident: Make sure you receive medical treatment as soon as possible after an accident, otherwise insurance may argue your injury is from an unrelated incident.
• Accident was your fault/contributory negligence: Insurance companies will work to show you were partially at fault for the accident.
• No coverage: Driver policy canceled or the driver is not a covered driver.
• Insured not cooperating: Insured must cooperate with their insurance company by providing accident report, giving statment and respond to phone calls.

Automobile Accident Damages You Can Recover

When it comes to seeking compensation for injuries sustained in an automobile accident, there are various factors that may influence the outcome. It is important to be aware of these considerations to ensure you receive the appropriate compensation you deserve.

Firstly, it is crucial to receive prompt medical treatment following the accident. This is because insurance companies may argue that your injury is unrelated to the accident if you delay seeking medical attention.

Additionally, if the accident was determined to be partially your fault or involved contributory negligence, insurance companies will work to establish your level of responsibility. This could potentially affect the amount of compensation, if any, you are entitled to.

It is also essential to verify that you have adequate insurance coverage. If your policy has been canceled or you are not listed as a covered driver, it may impact your ability to claim compensation.

Cooperation with your insurance company is another key aspect. It is important to provide all necessary documentation, such as accident reports and statements, and respond promptly to their requests for information. Failure to cooperate may hinder your chances of obtaining the compensation you deserve.

Now, let’s delve into the various types of compensation that can be claimed for injuries in an automobile accident. These include:

-Disability and disfigurement: Compensation for any long-term or permanent physical impairments resulting from the accident.

– Loss of consortium: This refers to the loss of companionship or support experienced by a spouse or family member due to the injuries sustained in the accident.

– Diminished future potential earnings: If the injuries sustained in the accident impact your ability to earn a living, you may be entitled to compensation for the potential income you would have earned.

– Diminished quality of life: Compensation for the negative impact the injuries have on your overall quality of life, including limitations on physical activities or personal enjoyment.

– Medical bills: Reimbursement for all medical expenses incurred as a result of the accident, including hospitalization, surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing treatments.

– Lost wages: Compensation for the income you have lost due to the accident, including any time taken off work for medical treatments or recovery.

– Mental and emotional distress: Compensation for the psychological impact of the accident, such as anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder.

– Out of pocket expenses: Reimbursement for any expenses directly related to the accident, such as transportation costs, home modifications, or assistive devices.

– Pain and suffering: Compensation for the physical pain and emotional suffering endured as a result of the accident.

– Property damage: If your vehicle or personal belongings were damaged in the accident, you may be entitled to compensation for repair or replacement costs.

– Wrongful death: In cases where the accident resulted in the loss of a loved one, surviving family members may be eligible to claim compensation for their loss.

It is important to note that the specific types and amount of compensation you can claim may vary depending on the laws and regulations of Alabama. Consulting with a legal professional who specializes in personal injury cases can provide you with the guidance and support necessary to navigate the complexities of seeking compensation for your injuries in an automobile accident. The Decatur, Alabama 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. 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.

Investigating Your Decatur AL Auto Accident

Once our attorneys commence representation, we will thoroughly investigate your auto accident claim. Our auto accident attorneys will investigate your auto accident to determine who is at fault for the accident. We will do the following:

• Visit the accident scene
• Look at the property damage of all vehicles
• Interview eye witnesses to the accident. People move and their memories fade. The faster we can talk to the witnesses, the better outcome for you.
• Determine the weather conditions at the time of the accident
• Take pictures and video of the scene and make any necessary measurements of skid marks. Private and government security cameras often can provide crash information.
• Obtain and review the police report for errors
• Perform a background check on the defendant, including their criminal history and driving record
• Obtain all medical records before and after the accident
• Retain experts to assist us in presenting your case

Why Hire Decatur, AL Auto Accident Attorneys (Abogados) Ferguson and Ferguson

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

• Always choose an attorney with experience handling car accident cases.
• We are committed to excellent client service.
• 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.
• We make sure that our clients understand each step of their case.
• Always consider the past auto accident cases they have handled.
• You should look for an attorney with trial experience. Although most auto accident cases will settle, you want to hire a law firm that will take your case to trial. Sometimes am insurance company will only take you serious if they fear going to court.
• 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.

If you have been in a car wreck in Decatur and an injury or death has occurred, you should get help from an experienced accident attorney. Contact our attorneys by phone or email or fill out the free consultation form. Insurance companies have adjusters, investigators, and attorneys working for them. Their goal is to limit the amount of money paid to auto accident victims like you. Insurance companies are not on your side. Don’t make their job easier by providing them with information that they can use or manipulate to deny your claim. Make sure you have the best auto accident attorney you can hire on your side to aggressively protect your interests.

Alabama Auto Insurance Requirements

Mandatory liability insurance in Alabama was the following as of 2020:

• $25,000 for bodily injury or death per person
• $50,000 total for bodily injury or death per accident
• $25,000 for property damage

The insurance limits in Alabama do not provide enough coverage in many accident claims. Because the limits are so low, you should try to have your own medical payments coverage and uninsured-underinsured on your auto insurance. Since healthcare is so expensive, and the death of a loved one can destroy a family financially, it is so important to check your auto insurance policy to make sure you are covered. Since most people do not have assets to cover a major accident, protect yourself with sufficient uninsured-underinsured coverage.

Alabama is a contributory negligence state. If you contributed to the accident by one percent you may be unable to recover any damages from the other driver’s insurance or your own. Insurance companies understand that they may be able to avoid paying you damages by showing that you contributed to the auto accident. That is why you need to hire our firm immediately after an accident, or the evidence may be lost, and your case gone forever.

Auto Accident FAQ

Q&A With a Alabama Automobile 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 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.

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. You generally have two years from the date of your car accident to file a personal injury lawsuit, per Alabama Code § 6-2-38. A general two-year deadline also applies to wrongful death lawsuits, per Alabama Code § 6-5-410.

Failing to take legal action within this time frame could prevent you from recovering damages via a lawsuit. Although this may seem like a generous amount of time, it can go quickly as you struggle to put your life back on track.

Should I do a police report following an accident?

Yes. A police report is very important in your case.

Should I release my medical records to the insurance company?

No. Let your attorney get your records for the insurance company.

The insurance company is offering a settlement. Should I accept it?

No. Insurance companies do not make reasonable offers to unrepresentative people. In most cases, we can get you a much better settlement than what the insurance company offers.

What happens if I am partially at fault for the accident in Alabama?

Contributory negligence means if you are at fault at all, you cannot recover anything in your case. Talk to an attorney before you just believe the insurance company. Insurance companies often say you were 1% at fault to avoid paying you what you deserve.

Can I recover if I am a passenger injured in an accident?

Yes. You can recover against the other driver if they are at fault. You can even recover against the driver of your vehicle if they were wanton. If one or both drivers are at fault, and are uninsured or underinsured, you may be able to recover from your own uninsured or underinsured automobile insurance.

Do you handle DUI accidents in Decatur?

Recovering compensation after a Decatur, Alabama DUI wreck can be challenging, and a knowledgeable Decatur auto accident lawyer can truly make a difference in a DUI accident. It is vital to carefully consider the decision to hire an auto accident lawyer, as this choice can significantly impact your ability to seek the compensation you deserve. If you find yourself searching for the best attorney near you or the best lawyer near you, it can be overwhelming with the plethora of out-of-town attorney advertisements bombarding you.

When facing the aftermath of an automobile accident, it is crucial to have a skilled and experienced personal injury attorney by your side. Many attorneys may not diligently pursue all available claims and compensation on your behalf, potentially leaving you undercompensated for your injuries and damages. At Ferguson & Ferguson, we understand the importance of personalized attention and direct communication with your attorney.

Our commitment to our clients is unwavering – you will always have direct access to your attorney, not just a paralegal. We provide our clients with our cell phone numbers and email addresses, ensuring that you can reach us when you need us the most. If you have been a victim of an auto accident in Decatur, Alabama, do not hesitate to contact our team for a free assessment of your situation. Our consultations are always free, and we are prepared to meet you at your convenience, whether it be at a hospital, residence, or workplace.

Taking the step to seek legal guidance after a serious automobile accident is crucial. Do not delay in reaching out to our skilled attorneys to protect your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve. Call us today at 256-350-7200 or 256-534-3435 – we are here to help you through this challenging time.

Can I recover if the other driver is uninsured, underinsured, or leaves the scene?

Yes. If you have uninsured and underinsured coverage on your own insurance, you can recover just like you can from the other driver.

How does it benefit me to hire a Decatur motorcycle lawyer?

Hiring a Decatur motorcycle accident lawyer can provide numerous benefits when seeking compensation for injuries sustained in a motorcycle accident. These lawyers possess the expertise to gather essential evidence, such as accident reports, witness statements, and expert testimonies, which can significantly strengthen your case. They leverage their knowledge of local laws and court systems to navigate the legal complexities involved in seeking damages.

Additionally, a skilled motorcycle accident lawyer can assist in calculating the full extent of damages you are entitled to, including medical bills, lost wages, out-of-pocket expenses, and potential non-economic damages like pain and suffering. In cases where a loved one has been lost in a motorcycle accident, a lawyer can help secure compensation for funeral expenses, loss of financial support, and companionship.

By enlisting the services of a Decatur motorcycle accident lawyer, you can delegate the legal intricacies to a professional, allowing you to focus on recovery while having the confidence that your legal rights are being protected. Even minor injuries from a motorcycle accident can have long-term implications, requiring ongoing care and potential lifestyle adjustments. A lawyer’s guidance can ensure you receive adequate compensation to cover medical expenses, home modifications, and other necessary accommodations.

Moreover, a motorcycle accident attorney can negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf and advocate for a fair settlement that reflects the true extent of your damages. Therefore, securing the assistance of a knowledgeable lawyer early in the process is crucial to safeguarding your rights and maximizing your chances of receiving appropriate compensation for your injuries.

Who is responsible for my rental vehicle?

If the other person is at fault, his or her insurance company will provide a rental. If liability is being debated, you should be able to obtain a rental from your insurance company.

Statistics

• 32% write text while driving.
• 42% read texts while driving.
• 70% of drivers talk on a cellphone while driving.
• 48% say they have driven 15 mph over the speed limit on a freeway.
• 32% admitting to drowsy driving.
• 39% reporting running red light.
• 13% admitting to driving under the influence of alcohol.

Steps in a Alabama Auto Accident

Draft and file complaint. The complaint lists the details of what happened in the accident, the damages claimed from the accident, and why the defendant is responsible for the accident. The complaint is then served on the defendant. The defendant normally has 30 das to answer the complaint, unless the complaint?is served with discovery. If the defendant has insurance, the insurance complaint for the defendant normally hires an attorney to answer the complaint served on the defendant. After the complaint is answered the discovery process starts. This is where the parties exchange relevant information related to the case. This includes filing admissions, production, interrogatories and usually doing depositions. If the case does not settle, the parties often go to mediation in Decatur. If the case does not settle the case goes to trial. This is where you go in front of a jury and present opening statements, evidence and closing arguments. During the trial process, you have the right to settle at any time. If the other party provides a settlement offer that is satisfactory, you may settle the case before you get a jury verdict.

Decatur Alabama Driving Laws

Knowing Alabama’s driving laws will help you stay safe in Decatur. 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.

Free Case Review

Recovering compensation after a Decatur, Alabama automobile wreck can be difficult, and a knowledgeable Decatur auto accident lawyer can make all the difference. Making the decision to hire a auto accident lawyer is an important choice that takes careful consideration. Are you looking for an attorney by searching for the”best attorney near me”, or the “best lawyer near me”. With all of the cheesy out of town attorney television and billboard ads you see, it can be difficult to determine who to call. If you need a Decatur, Alabama automobile accident lawyer, you need to hire the best auto accident lawyer you can hire. Some lawyers, due to their lack of skill or resources, may not pursue all claims and compensation available to you. Many of the television and billboard attorneys have you talk to their paralegals. Don’t hire an attorney who you will never meet, or a law firm that bounces you between attorneys. If they send you the paperwork to sign, throw it in the garbage and call us. At Ferguson & Ferguson, you only deal with attorneys. A client should be able to get a hold of their attorney. All of our attorneys give their clients their cell phone numbers and email addresses. If you have been a victim of an automobile accident in Decatur, Alabama, do not hesitate to call our skilled and experienced personal injury attorneys for a free assessment of your situation. Our consultations are free. We can visit you or your loved one at a hospital, residence, or workplace. Take the first step and call us today if you’ve been seriously injured. Call now 256-350-7200 or 256-534-3435. We are here to help.

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

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

Our auto accident attorneys serve every city and county in the State of Alabama.