If you suffered an injury in a car crash in Montgomery, Alabama, Belt, Bruner & Barnett Personal Injury Lawyers can help. Our Montgomery seatbelt injury lawyers offer free consultations. Call (334) 518-6098 to learn how our team may help you seek compensation for your injuries and losses.
A seatbelt can help protect you during a crash, but it can also cause injuries when the force of impact is strong. Whether you suffered chest pain, broken bones, or other harm, you may have options for seeking compensation.
Why Choose Belt, Bruner & Barnett Personal Injury Lawyers for Help After a Seatbelt Injury in Montgomery, AL?
At Belt, Bruner & Barnett Personal Injury Lawyers, we understand how devastating a serious car accident can be. Our Montgomery personal injury attorneys bring more than 100 years of combined experience to personal injury cases and have recovered more than $400 million for injured clients.
We are committed to helping accident victims understand their rights and pursue the compensation they deserve. We will work to build a strong case that accounts for the full extent of your injuries and financial losses.
Our team understands that every accident is different. We take the time to evaluate your circumstances, answer your questions, and develop a legal strategy tailored to your needs. Contact us today for a free consultation with an experienced Montgomery car accident lawyer.
What Is My Seatbelt Injury Case Worth?
The value of a seatbelt injury claim depends on the harm you suffered and how it affects your life. Factors may include medical bills, lost wages, future treatment needs, and whether your injuries limit your ability to work or handle daily tasks.
The cause of the crash and the evidence supporting your claim also matter. For example, a person who needs surgery and months of physical therapy may have greater losses than someone who recovers within a few weeks. Our team can review the details of your case and explain what compensation you may be able to seek.
What Kinds of Damages Are Available to Seatbelt Injury Victims?
Damages are the losses you may seek compensation for after an injury. Economic damages cover financial losses that can be measured, such as hospital bills, medication, physical therapy, lost wages, and future medical expenses.
Non-economic damages cover the personal effects of an injury. These may include pain and suffering, emotional distress, scarring, and loss of enjoyment of life. For example, ongoing chest pain that makes it difficult to sleep or exercise may affect your quality of life, even when there is no separate bill for that harm.
How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Seatbelt Injury Lawyer?
Many personal injury lawyers work on a contingency-fee basis. This generally means you do not pay attorney fees upfront, and the lawyer receives a fee from the recovery if the case succeeds, according to your agreement.
This arrangement can help injured people get legal advice without paying hourly attorney fees while their claims are pending. Our team can explain the fee agreement and any other case costs before you decide whether to hire us.
Can I Recover Compensation If I’m Being Blamed for a Seatbelt Injury in Alabama?
Alabama generally follows a contributory negligence rule. This means that if an injured person is found to have contributed to the accident through their own negligence, it can prevent them from recovering damages.
For example, an insurer may argue that your actions contributed to a crash or made your injuries worse. The rules about seatbelt use can affect how that argument is handled. Our team can review the facts and explain how Alabama law may apply to your claim.
Common Seatbelt Injuries in Montgomery, Alabama
During a crash, a seatbelt can press hard against the body as it restrains a person from moving forward. Although seatbelts help reduce the risk of severe injury, the force involved can still cause harm.
Common seatbelt-related injuries include:
- Bruising and cuts across the chest or abdomen
- Broken ribs or other fractures
- Shoulder injuries
- Abdominal organ injuries
- Neck and brain injuries
- Internal bleeding
- Injuries to the chest wall
Some injuries may not cause clear symptoms right away. Getting medical care after a crash can help identify hidden injuries and create records of your treatment.
What Causes Most Seatbelt Injuries in Alabama?
Seatbelt injuries often happen when a vehicle stops suddenly or collides with another object. The force of the crash can cause the belt to press into the chest, shoulder, or abdomen.
Common causes and contributing factors include:
- Rear-end collisions
- Head-on crashes
- Side-impact collisions
- High-speed crashes
- Rollover accidents
- Sudden stops in heavy traffic
- Defective seatbelts or restraint systems
In some cases, the crash may be caused by another driver’s actions. In others, a faulty belt or vehicle part may need to be investigated. Crash reports, photographs, medical records, and vehicle inspections may help show what happened.
How Long Do I Have to File a Lawsuit After a Seatbelt Injury in Alabama?
In Alabama, the general deadline for filing a personal injury lawsuit is two years from the date the claim arises. Certain claims may have different rules, so it is important to confirm the deadline that applies to your situation.
Waiting too long can prevent you from seeking compensation in court. Speaking with a lawyer early can help you understand your options and preserve important evidence.
Contact Our Montgomery Seatbelt Injury Lawyers for a Free Consultation
A seatbelt injury can leave you facing medical expenses, missed work, and pain that affects your daily life. At Belt, Bruner & Barnett Personal Injury Lawyers, our team has more than 100 years of combined experience and has recovered more than $400 million for clients.
If you suffered a seatbelt injury in Montgomery, contact our team for a free consultation. Call today to discuss your situation with our Montgomery seatbelt injury attorneys.