Car Accident Attorneys in Daphne, AL
Cars are such a common part of our everyday lives that it can be easy to take them for granted. No one plans to get involved in a car accident, so it can be an incredible wake-up call when one happens. Unfortunately, the effects of an accident can go far beyond the initial impact of a crash. Victims of Alabama car accidents may have to deal with months or even years of consequences due to no fault of their own.
If you or someone you love has been injured in a car accident in Daphne, Alabama, speak with an experienced car accident attorney as soon as possible. At Stone Crosby, P.C., we have been fighting for the rights of accident victims throughout Alabama for over 100 years. Contact our office today to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation.
Alabama Car Accidents Are Serious
According to the most recent statistics from the Alabama Department of Transportation, there are more licensed drivers in this state and more vehicles on the road than ever. And it is creating a dangerous situation.
Based on 2019 data, a typical Alabama driver has a one in three chance of being involved in an injury or fatal crash while operating a vehicle during their lifetime. The probability of any driver in this state being involved in any crash during their lifetime is now over 90%. In Baldwin County alone, there were nearly 6,000 accidents in 2019, resulting in 1,790 injuries and 50 fatalities.
Common Causes of Car Accidents in Alabama
Most car accidents are the result of human error. Someone wasn’t paying attention or acting recklessly, causing a crash where others are either hurt or killed. Some of the most common causes of car accidents in Alabama include:
Speeding
The NHTSA reported that speeding killed over 9,000 people in a single year in this country, making it one of the leading causes of fatal car crashes. Speeding involves both driving faster than the posted speed limit and driving too fast for current road and weather conditions.
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is another leading cause of auto accidents. Drivers that take their attention away from the road to look at a phone, drink or eat, adjust vehicle controls, or even converse with other passengers are more likely to cause accidents.
Impaired Driving
Alcohol and drug use are particularly common and deadly causes of car crashes, resulting in over 10,000 deaths annually in the U.S. Alcohol use impairs a person’s ability to operate a motor vehicle and make appropriate choices.
Drowsy Driving
Drowsy driving is another form of impaired driving. A driver that operates a motor vehicle while fatigued puts themselves and others at risk.
Reckless Driving
Drivers who disregard the rules of the road are more likely to cause accidents. Examples include running stop lights, failing to yield the right of way, and making improper lane changes.
Confused Driving
This may sound strange, but the Gulf Coast of Alabama is a popular vacation destination. Drivers who are unfamiliar with the area are more likely to miss turns, make dangerous u-turns, and change lanes without looking when they are confused or lost. All of this activity is dangerous at best.
Defective Parts
Defective vehicle parts and lack of maintenance are other common causes of car crashes. Examples include exploding gas tanks and tire blowouts.
Getting You the Compensation You Deserve
After a crash, you may be wondering what type of compensation you can collect from a personal injury case. Every claim is different, and the value of your case will depend on a variety of factors.
If there is proof that another party caused the accident that resulted in your injuries, you have the right to pursue compensation for:
- Property damage or loss
- Medical costs
- Lost earnings and earning potential
- Pain and suffering
- Mental anguish
- Loss of quality of life
If you lost a loved one in an accident, you may have a wrongful death lawsuit, and our law firm can help you pursue these damages.
Who is Responsible for the Crash?
Alabama is not a no-fault state for auto insurance, meaning the party that causes the accident is responsible for your damages. But fault isn’t always easy to assign after a crash. What might seem clear on the surface can become complex when the details of the accident are revealed.
The other driver might be at fault. But some other possibilities include the driver’s employer, a designer or manufacturer of a defective part, or a business or government entity that failed to maintain a safe roadway. When we take your case, our firm will thoroughly investigate your accident and take the steps necessary to establish the strongest case possible on your behalf.
Avoiding Costly Mistakes in a Car Accident Case
After a car accident, document as much as possible at the scene and seek immediate medical attention, even if you don’t feel injured. Crashes are traumatic events but facing everything that comes next can be just as stressful.
Dealing with insurance companies can be tough. Many employ unfair tactics meant to minimize claims or even deny legitimate ones. While you should report the accident to your insurance company, avoid giving a recorded statement to anyone without first speaking with a personal injury attorney.
Insurers have no incentives to make your life easier, but they’ll be quick to do just the opposite. If they can pin the blame for the accident in your corner, they can avoid paying the compensation you deserve. This is why you need an experienced and knowledgeable lawyer on your side from the start.
Contact an Experienced Baldwin County, AL Car Accident Lawyer
Stone Crosby, P.C. is dedicated to protecting the rights of clients impacted by serious injury and wrongful death. If you or a loved one have been injured in a car accident or you have lost a loved one in one of these tragedies, we are standing by to fiercely represent your interests.
When you hire us, you never pay anything upfront. In fact, we don’t get paid unless we win your case. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation to learn more about your options for recovery.