Birmingham Personal Injury Lawyer

Personal Injury Lawyers in Birmingham

It’s truly disheartening when someone is injured or loses their life in an accident. It’s even more distressing when the injury is caused by another person’s negligence. If you or a loved one were harmed due to someone else’s carelessness, you may have grounds to recover compensation for your accident-related medical bills, lost income earnings, and pain and suffering through a personal injury claim. An experienced Birmingham personal injury lawyer review your case and discuss your legal options during a free consultation.

You deserve to be compensated for all your damages, but chances are the insurance company is shortchanging you. Let the Birmingham personal injury attorneys at Cory Watson Attorneys handle all the aspects of your personal injury claim so you can focus on your own recovery.

For a free legal consultation with a Personal Injury lawyer serving Birmingham, call 877-562-0000

Birmingham Personal Injury Guide

• Types of Personal Injury Cases We Handle
• Birmingham Accident Statistics
• What Should I Do After a Birmingham Accident
• How Much Is a Personal Injury Case Worth?
• Can I Still Recover Damages If I Was Partially At Fault for the Birmingham Accident?
• Additional Resources

Birmingham Personal Injury Lawyer Near Me 877-562-0000

Why Choose the Birmingham Personal Injury Lawyers at Cory Watson Attorneys?

With over 38 years of unwavering dedication, Cory Watson Attorneys has been steadfast in protecting the rights of injury victims not only in Birmingham but across the nation. Our commitment to seeking justice knows no bounds, as we fearlessly take on insurance companies, corporate giants, and even the pharmaceutical industry. As a result of our resolute efforts, we have successfully represented clients and recovered more than $4 Billion on their behalf.

From our main office in Birmingham, Alabama, to our branches in Memphis and Nashville, Tennessee, we welcome anyone who has suffered an injury due to someone else’s negligence. We firmly believe that every case is significant, regardless of its size, and we are determined to provide you with our utmost support and advocacy.

If you find yourself grappling with the aftermath of an injury, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team of personal injury lawyers in Birmingham. We are here to listen, understand your unique situation, and fight to secure the best possible results for your Birmingham personal injury claim. Your well-being is our priority, and we are ready to stand by your side on this journey to recovery and justice. Contact our skilled personal injury attorneys today to learn how we can help you.

Types of Personal Injury Cases We Handle

At Cory Watson Attorneys, we handle a variety of personal injury claims. During your free consultation, we will go over the details of what happened to you to see if you have a valid case. Here are the most common types of personal injury cases we handle:

• Birmingham ATV Accident Lawyer
• Birmingham Bicycle Accident Lawyer
• Birmingham Boating Accident Lawyer
• Birmingham Bus Accident Lawyer
• Birmingham Car Accident Lawyer
• Birmingham Dog Bite Lawyer
• Birmingham Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
• Birmingham Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
• Birmingham Slip And Fall Lawyer/Premises Liability
• Birmingham Truck Accident Lawyer
• Birmingham Wrongful Death Lawyer

We also handle other types of Birmingham personal injury claims as well. Reach out to us as soon as possible after suffering injuries in an accident someone else caused to discuss your case with a member of our team for free.

Our Birmingham Office Location

Cory Watson Attorneys has our law firm’s headquarters located at the following address:

2131 Magnolia Ave s.
Birmingham, AL 35205

(205) 850-1242

Come by our office to speak with an attorney for free about your case. You can also contact us at the phone number listed above to schedule an appointment for a free consultation.

Birmingham Accident Statistics

Birmingham is the county seat of Jefferson County and extends into Shelby County. The city has a population of around 200,000 residents, but the surrounding metropolitan area has a population of over one million. The Alabama Department of Transportation has published the following accident statistics for both Jefferson County and Shelby County and the greater Birmingham area:

• Jefferson County – 34,732 total traffic accidents, resulting in 7,592 injuries and 85 fatalities
• Shelby County – 6,767 total traffic accidents, resulting in 1,197 injuries and 26 fatalities

In recent years, the number of traffic fatalities in Alabama has increased by nearly 8%, and the number of injury accidents has increased by over 21%. On average, a person is killed in an Alabama car accident every eight hours.

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What Are Common Injuries People Suffer in Birmingham Accidents?

Common injuries that people may suffer in accidents in Birmingham, Alabama, are similar to those seen in accidents elsewhere. The type and severity of injuries can vary widely depending on the nature of the accident. Here are some common injuries that individuals may experience in Birmingham accidents:

• Whiplash: This is a common injury in car accidents, especially rear-end collisions. Whiplash occurs when the head is suddenly jerked forward and then backward, straining the neck muscles and ligaments.
• Broken Bones: Fractures can occur in various accidents, such as car crashes, slip and falls, and workplace accidents. Commonly broken bones include arms, legs, wrists, and ribs.
• Soft Tissue Injuries: These can encompass a range of injuries, including sprains, strains, and contusions (bruises). Soft tissue injuries often result from falls, car accidents, or sports-related incidents.
• Head Injuries: Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) can occur when there’s a blow to the head, such as in car accidents or falls. A traumatic brain injury can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: Accidents involving high-impact forces, like car accidents or falls from heights, can lead to spinal cord injuries. These injuries can have life-altering consequences, including paralysis.
• Burn Injuries: Fires, explosions, or contact with hot surfaces or substances can cause burn injuries. Burns are not only painful but can also result in scarring and long-term complications.
• Cuts and Lacerations: Broken glass, sharp objects, or flying debris in accidents can cause cuts and lacerations that may require stitches or surgical intervention.
• Internal Injuries: Blunt force trauma in accidents can cause internal injuries to organs like the liver, spleen, or kidneys. These injuries may not be immediately apparent but can be life-threatening.
• Emotional Trauma: In addition to physical injuries, people involved in accidents may also experience emotional trauma, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression.
• Injuries from Workplace Accidents: In industrial settings or construction sites, accidents can result in specific injuries like electrocution, chemical burns, or machinery-related injuries.
• Pedestrian and Bicycle Injuries: Birmingham has a substantial population of pedestrians and cyclists. Accidents involving pedestrians or cyclists can result in severe injuries due to the vulnerability of these road users.
• Dog Bites and Animal Attacks: Animal attacks, including dog bites, can lead to serious injuries, including infections and scarring.

It’s important to remember that the severity of injuries can vary widely, and not all accidents result in injuries. However, if you or someone you know has been injured in an accident in Birmingham, it’s crucial to seek immediate medical attention and consult with a personal injury attorney to explore your legal options for seeking compensation, especially if the accident was caused by someone else’s negligence.

What Should I Do After a Birmingham Accident

If you are involved in an accident in Birmingham, Alabama, whether it’s a car accident, slip and fall, workplace accident, or any other type of incident, it’s essential to take certain steps to protect your health, well-being, and legal rights. Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do after a Birmingham accident:

• Ensure Safety and Seek Medical Attention: First and foremost, check yourself and others for injuries. If anyone is seriously injured, call 911 immediately. If you can do so safely, move your vehicle out of traffic to prevent further accidents. If you’re unable to move, turn on your hazard lights to warn other drivers.
• Call the Police: In most accidents, it’s important to report the incident to the police. They will create an accident report, which can be valuable for insurance claims and legal purposes.
• Exchange Information: Exchange contact and insurance information with all parties involved in the accident. Obtain contact information from any witnesses who may have seen the accident.
• Document the Scene: Take photos or videos of the accident scene, including damage to vehicles, road conditions, traffic signals, and any visible injuries. Note the date, time, and location of the accident.
• Seek Medical Attention: Even if you believe your injuries are minor, it’s crucial to seek medical attention promptly. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent, and medical records can be essential for any future legal claims. Follow your doctor’s recommendations for treatment and recovery.
• Report to Insurance Companies: Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. Provide them with all relevant information. Be cautious when speaking with insurance adjusters and avoid admitting fault or making recorded statements without legal counsel.
• Preserve Evidence: Keep copies of all medical bills, records, and receipts related to your treatment and recovery. Maintain a record of any missed workdays and lost wages due to the accident.
• Stay Informed: Keep track of the progress of your medical treatment, your expenses, and any communication related to your accident and injuries.
• Consult with an Attorney: If you believe the accident resulted from someone else’s negligence and you are seeking compensation for your injuries, consult with a personal injury attorney in Birmingham. They can provide legal guidance, evaluate the strength of your case, and help you navigate the claims process.

Every accident is unique, so it’s essential to tailor your response to the specific circumstances. Consulting with an attorney early in the process can be particularly valuable, as they can help protect your legal rights and guide you through the complexities of the legal system in Birmingham, Alabama.

Do I Have a Birmingham Personal Injury Claim?

People get hurt all the time, but it is not always someone else’s fault. Most personal injury cases must contain these four elements:

• Duty of care: One party had an obligation to keep another party from the risk of harm. For example, a doctor must avoid harming his patients, and drivers must drive safely and not harm anyone sharing the roads.
• Breach of duty: The party violated the duty of care with negligent behavior. 
• Causation: The negligent behavior directly caused your injuries, meaning that you would not be injured if not for the other party’s negligence. 
• Damages: Your injuries and related losses can be compensated financially.

How Much Is a Personal Injury Case Worth?

Because each case is different, there is no standard answer to how much compensation you can get through a personal injury claim. In general, people with more severe injuries might be able to recover more damages than people with less severe injuries. Your Birmingham personal injury attorney will evaluate your case and estimate how much it is worth based on your medical bills, future prognosis, lost wages, and the extent of your pain and suffering, and will seek the maximum compensation on your behalf.

You may be able to recover these types of damages:

Economic Damages in a Personal Injury Case

Economic damages compensate you for direct losses such as:

• Medical expenses
• Future medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Future lost wages
• Property damage

Non-Economic Damages in a Personal Injury Case

Non-economic damages compensate you for intangible losses like pain and suffering caused by:

• Chronic pain
• A long recovery period
• Multiple surgeries
• Loss of a limb or body function
• Permanent disability or disfigurement 
• Mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and insomnia
• Reduced quality of life 

Damages in a Wrongful Death Case

Wrongful death claims allow family members of individuals who died in accidents due to someone else’s negligence to seek compensation for damages, such as:

• Funeral and burial losses
• Your loved one’s medical bills from before their passing
• Lost wages you missed out on while taking care of your loved one

Only the personal representative of the decedent’s estate can file a personal injury lawsuit for wrongful death in Alabama. Your Birmingham accident attorney at Cory Watson Attorneys can help you determine who should file a wrongful death lawsuit if your loved one passed away from their injuries.

Legal Deadlines That Could Affect Your Alabama Personal Injury Case

If you sustained injuries or lost a loved one because of another party’s negligence, you have a limited amount of time to seek compensation. These laws may apply to your case:

• AL Code § 6-2-38 sets the statute of limitations for personal injury at two years
• AL Code § 6-5-410 sets the statute of limitations for wrongful death at two years

You generally have two years from the date of the accident or two years from your loved one’s passing to sue the at-fault party. If you wait any longer, you forfeit your right to sue. Act quickly and speak with our committed personal injury lawyers about your case before time runs out.

Our attorneys will evaluate your personal injury case. Our personal injury law firm only takes on cases we think we can win for our clients. You only pay us when we win compensation on your behalf.

How Long Will It Take to Resolve My Birmingham Personal Injury Case?

How long it takes to resolve a personal injury case in Birmingham can vary significantly based on several factors. There is no fixed timeframe, as each case is unique. Here are some factors that can influence the duration of your personal injury case:

• Severity of Injuries: Cases involving more severe injuries or long-term disabilities often take longer to resolve because of the complexity of the medical treatment, rehabilitation, and evaluation of future medical needs.
• Liability and Disputes: If there is a dispute over who was at fault for the accident or if there are multiple parties involved, it may take longer to establish liability and reach a settlement.
• Insurance Company Cooperation: The responsiveness and cooperation of insurance companies can affect the timeline. Some insurers may delay or contest claims, which can prolong the process.
• Negotiations: The negotiation process can vary in length. In some cases, parties may quickly agree on a settlement, while in others, it may take months of back-and-forth negotiations.
• Filing a Lawsuit: If a settlement cannot be reached through negotiations, filing a lawsuit may be necessary. This can significantly extend the duration of the case, as legal proceedings can take time.
• Court Docket and Scheduling: Court schedules and dockets can impact how long it takes for a case to go to trial. The availability of judges and court resources can influence the timeline.
• Mediation or Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR): In some cases, parties may opt for mediation or ADR processes to resolve the dispute, which can expedite the resolution compared to a full trial.
• Complexity of the Case: More complex cases, such as those involving multiple parties, intricate legal issues, or significant damages, may take longer to litigate.
• Legal Representation: The experience and efficiency of your personal injury attorney can also affect the timeline. An experienced attorney may be better equipped to navigate the legal process and negotiate on your behalf.

To get a more accurate estimate of how long it will take to resolve your specific personal injury case in Birmingham, it’s advisable to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney. They can assess the details of your case, provide insights into the potential timeline, and guide you through the process, including settlement negotiations or litigation if necessary. Keep in mind that while a swift resolution is desirable, it’s also important to prioritize a fair and just outcome for your case.

Can I Still Recover Damages If I Was Partially At Fault for the Birmingham Accident?

Yes, you may still be able to recover damages in Birmingham, Alabama, even if you were partially at fault for the accident. Alabama follows a legal doctrine called “contributory negligence,” which means that if you are found to be even slightly at fault for the accident, you could be barred from recovering damages from other parties involved in the accident. This is a strict legal standard that can make it challenging to recover damages if you are deemed to have contributed to the accident in any way.

Here’s how contributory negligence works in Alabama:

• Pure Contributory Negligence: Alabama follows the principle of “pure contributory negligence.” Under this doctrine, if it can be proven that you were even 1% at fault for the accident, you may be barred from recovering any damages from other parties who were also at fault.
• Burden of Proof: The burden of proving contributory negligence falls on the defendant(s) or their insurance company. They must demonstrate that you were negligent in some way and that this negligence contributed to the accident.
• Comparative Fault: In some states, a different doctrine called “comparative fault” is used, which allows for partial recovery based on the degree of fault. In contrast, Alabama does not provide for this partial recovery option.

Given the strict nature of contributory negligence in Alabama, it’s crucial to approach personal injury cases with care. If you believe you were partially at fault for the accident, it’s advisable to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney in Birmingham. An attorney can evaluate the circumstances of your case, help you understand your legal rights, and explore potential defenses or strategies to minimize the impact of contributory negligence on your ability to recover damages.

Additionally, remember that insurance companies may try to assign a portion of fault to you to limit their liability. Having legal representation can be essential in negotiating with insurance companies and protecting your interests in a personal injury claim.

How Your Lawyer Can Help With Your Personal Injury Case

A personal injury lawyer can help you navigate the confusing and tedious process of seeking compensation from the party that injured you and their insurance provider. We can provide our personal injury clients with the following services:

• Investigate the incident: We will gather evidence such as pictures of the scene, pictures of your injuries, traffic or security camera footage, cell phone records, toxicology reports, and interviews with witnesses to show that the other party’s negligence caused your injuries.
• Estimate your damages: You need to know the value of your damages to evaluate settlement offers. We will review your medical records and your medical bills, past income statements, and more to estimate your losses.
• Negotiate a settlement: We will negotiate with the insurance company or negligent parties for a fair settlement that compensates you for the full value of all your losses.
• File a lawsuit: We can sue the negligent party and represent you in court.

The Personal Injury Lawyers at Cory Watson Attorneys Will Fight for Your Rights

If you or a loved one suffered a serious injury in an accident in Birmingham, you could be entitled to damages for medical care, lost earnings, and pain and suffering. A personal injury attorney with Cory Watson Attorneys may be able to help you recover damages for your losses. We provide aggressive legal representation to our clients in pursuit of the maximum financial compensation we know our Birmingham clients deserve.

Call our office today at (205) 328-2200 for a free case consultation. The sooner you call, the sooner we can get started on your case. Our past client reviews affirm how much we care for those who rely on our knowledge and resources.

Additional Resources

Birmingham Emergency Rooms

Several emergency rooms and urgent care centers serve the Birmingham area. A few include:

• Ascension St. Vincent’s Birmingham Emergency Room: 810 St Vincents Dr, Birmingham, AL 35205
• Emergency Room | UAB Hospital: 1802 6th Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35233
• Brookwood Baptist Medical Center Freestanding Emergency Department: 7131 Cahaba Valley Rd, Birmingham, AL 35242
• UAB Hospital-Highlands Emergency Room: 1201 11th Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35205
• Birmingham VA Medical Center Emergency Room: 700 19th St S, Birmingham, AL 35233
• Children’s of Alabama – Emergency Department: 1600 5th Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35233

Seek immediate medical attention for any serious injuries you suffer in Birmingham because of someone else’s negligence and contact Cory Watson Attorneys as soon as possible to discuss your claim for free.

*Disclaimer – Cory Watson Attorneys does not endorse these healthcare providers, nor do we profit from having them listed on our website.

Birmingham Courthouses

• Jefferson County Courthouse: 716 Richard Arrington Jr Blvd N, Birmingham, AL 35203
• Birmingham Municipal Court: 801 17th St N, Birmingham, AL 35203
• Federal Building U.S. Courthouse: 1800 5th Ave N, Birmingham, AL 35203
• Hugo L. Black United States Courthouse: 1729 5th Ave N, Birmingham, AL 35203

Neighborhoods We Serve In Birmingham

North Birmingham (35207), Five Points South, Avondale (35222), Ensley (35218), Bush Hills, Belview Heights

Call or text 877-562-0000 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form