Alabama Rear-End Car Accident Lawyer

A rear-end collision is a nightmare scenario for even the most careful drivers. Though rear-end accidents are often considered minor and only happen at low speeds, they can cause significant damage and leave you with long-lasting injuries.

If you or a loved one were hurt in a rear-end crash in Alabama, you could recover compensation from the liable party. The Alabama rear-end accident lawyers of Belt, Bruner & Barnett P.C. are here to help you recover everything you deserve. Contact our car accident attorneys today for a free consultation to discuss your case.

Rear-End Car Crashes in Alabama

According to the most recent crash data from the Alabama Department of Transportation, over 30% of crashes happened at stop signs and traffic signals.

Rear-end accidents occur when drivers fail to slow down or yield at these traffic control systems. Negligent drivers might cause a rear-end crash if they engage in behaviors such as:

• Distracted driving – Distracted driving behaviors, such as cell phone use and rubbernecking, are a common cause of auto accidents in Alabama. This is especially true in stop-and-go traffic, where looking away from the road can take away precious time you need to react to cars around you. Any behavior that takes a driver’s eyes off the road or hands off the wheel makes it more challenging to respond to a stop sign or traffic light in time, which can lead to a rear-end crash.
• Speeding — It can take longer than you think for your car to come to a complete stop after you hit the brakes while driving. Factor in the additional time it takes to react and physically apply the brake, and it becomes clear why going too fast can keep drivers from stopping in time.
• Driving under the influence — over 5,000 crashes in Alabama were caused by suspected alcohol or drug impairment in 2020. While most drivers know the risks of driving under the influence, it doesn’t stop them from getting behind the wheel and putting others in harm’s way. The impact of drug and alcohol use on a diver’s decision-making and reaction time is a recipe for disaster, often contributing to rear-end collisions.
• Aggressive driving — Road rage can cause drivers to take unnecessary risks and speed to catch up with others. Aggressive operations contributed to nearly 2,700 crashes in 2020 (including 80 fatal crashes) in Alabama. Tailgating is another common aggressive driving behavior that can put other drivers at risk of being rear-ended.

Additional factors can come into play in causing rear-end accidents, such as faulty brakes and other mechanical defects. A rear-end accident lawyer will investigate the unique circumstances of your case and determine how the at-fault party’s negligence caused the crash.

Rear-End Auto Accident Injuries

Many rear-end collisions in Alabama happen at low speeds or when one driver is stopped, so this type of crash can cause severe injuries. Common rear-end car crash injuries include:

• Whiplash
• Head and neck trauma
• Concussions
• Spinal cord and back injuries
• Broken bones
• Traumatic brain injuries

Some injuries after a rear-end crash might not be evident in the aftermath of an accident but reveal themselves later. If you or a loved one are hurt in a rear-end crash, including any not listed above, you could have grounds for a claim to recover compensation for your medical bills, prescription costs, and more. You should consult an experienced car accident lawyer with considerable experience and success in Alabama rear-end car accident cases.

What to Do After Being Rear-Ended in Alabama

If you’re the victim of a rear-end accident, seek medical attention immediately. The neck injuries caused by a rear-end crash, especially if you were at a stop, can be more severe than you think.

Call the police to receive an accident report and get the other driver’s contact and insurance information. Then, contact a personal injury lawyer about your rights, legal option, and what you can expect regarding compensation for your injuries after being rear-ended by a negligent driver. Your lawyer can help you decide the next steps and guide you to recover damages.

Who’s at Fault for a Rear-End Accident in Alabama?

The driver who hit the back of your vehicle is likely at fault, as everyone on the road must keep a safe following distance from others. However, rear-end accident liability is not always clear-cut, such as if the driver who was hit did something unexpected that prevented the person behind them from avoiding the crash.

Compensation After a Rear-End Accident

Alabama is one of few states that follow the rule of contributory negligence, so you must successfully prove that the other party was entirely to blame for the accident to recover compensation for the damages you suffered, including:

• Medical expenses
• Property damage
• Lost wages
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Diminished quality of life

Your lawyer can help prove the other driver’s fault and show the extent of your losses.

Alabama Rear-End Accident FAQs

We know the time following a car accident is overwhelming, and you likely have many questions about filing a claim. We’ve gathered the answers to a few of the most common questions, but don’t hesitate to contact our rear-end accident lawyers for a consultation to discuss your case in more detail.

How Long After a Rear-End Accident Can You File a Claim?

AL Code Section 6-2-38 outlines the state’s statute of limitations, which sets a two-year deadline for you to file a personal injury claim. This may sound like plenty of time, but you should get started as soon as possible to maximize your chances of securing compensation. If you wait too long after being rear-ended and the statute expires, you’ll lose your opportunity and have to pay expenses out-of-pocket. Your rear-end accident lawyer will handle the legal details so you can focus on recovering from the pain and trauma of the accident.

Can You Share Fault for a Rear-End Accident?

Yes, rear-ended drivers in Alabama can sometimes share fault for the accident. For example, if you made an improper lane change without signaling, had a broken taillight, or stopped short unexpectedly, you could be partially liable and face challenges recovering compensation for your damages.

Should You Talk to the Insurance Company?

You should notify the insurance company of the accident as your policy requires. However, don’t say more or sign any paperwork without a rear-end accident attorney present. Your insurance company will look for ways to reduce its payout and resolve your claim quickly, but your lawyer can help ensure you don’t settle for any less than your case is worth.

Call an Alabama Rear-End Accident Lawyer Today

If you or a loved one were rear-ended and injured in Alabama, you shouldn’t have to shoulder the burden of another’s negligence. To get all the compensation you deserve for medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses, it’s essential to have legal representation.

The rear-end accident lawyers of Belt, Bruner & Barnett, P.C. have handled countless Alabama car accidents like yours and know how to secure the maximum compensation possible. We’re passionate about protecting the rights of Alabama car accident victims and helping them recover.

Contact us today or call (205) 933-1500 to learn about your legal options after your rear-end accident.