Car accidents are a problem across the United States, with 37,000 people killed each year in an accident involving a vehicle. Meanwhile, injuries occur to the tune of 2.35 million people per year, with some injuries resulting in limited future abilities. Missing work, failing to pay utilities and rent, and losing mobility or dexterity due to a Mobile car accident means a completely different future for the accident victim. There is also cases where an accident caused by a negligent driver leads to a wrongful death. If any of the situations above sounds like your current circumstances, you should know you can seek full and fair compensation for your injuries and damages with help from an experienced Alabama auto accident lawyer.
How Common Are Car Accidents in Alabama?
In Alabama, the statistics regarding death due to auto accidents are alarming. The national rate for deaths is 7.0 (per 100,000 people). Meanwhile, for the state of Alabama, the Center for Disease Control says the rate is much higher, 13.7 per 100,000 to be exact. This means issues related to car accidents are higher in Alabama, as well.
Alabama’s death rate puts the state seventh out of the 50 states and the District of Columbia. When one lives in a state that is predominantly rural and requires residents to drive long distances to destinations like a hospital, this statistic carries some logic. It also means the emergency responders have to travel long distances to reach the accident and provide necessary support. Using techniques like the Jaws of Life requires more time and means a longer period between the accident and the point when emergency treatment can be administered.
This leads to more permanent injuries because the individual is dealing with pain and is restricted from treatment for longer periods. The term “the golden hour” is used to describe the ideal time to administer pain medication, triage, and determine further necessary treatment for car accident injuries. When that period is surpassed because of the distance to the hospital or the time required to free the victim from the vehicle itself, the injuries are worse and can become permanent to some extent.
This may be a circumstance that requires legal recourse on the part of the victim. If there is evidence the treatment could have been administered quickly, the responders and medical personnel may be at fault for the extended duration of the injury and limited mobility. Meanwhile, the situation may simply be the fault of the other driver if they were distracted or under the influence of a substance while behind the wheel. Talking to a skilled Mobile car accident lawyer can help determine the best approach to a legal proceeding in relation to the accident and subsequent care for the victim.
Another important factor in timely treatment following an accident is the proximity of a hospital. In Alabama, the struggling economy leads to hospital closures. This puts rural residents at risk for greater injury or lasting injury because it takes longer to reach medical help.
What Evidence Will Be Discussed During a Court Hearing?
Individuals who have been injured in a car accident find it difficult to relive that experience. Unfortunately, the mental re-enactment of the accident may be needed on multiple occasions, both during discussions with the lawyer and in the courtroom. It is important to prepare for this painful occurrence in order to provide the most accurate re-telling while dealing with the mental anguish of reliving that experience.
During a court appearance, witnesses provide testimony and doctors may be called to discuss the injuries in detail that the victim suffered. This is to provide the most accurate impression of guilt in regard to the individual who caused the accident.
Medical bills and other expenses incurred as a result of the car accident and injuries sustained will also be discussed. This is necessary to inform the judge of all pertinent information, and again, it helps determine the restitution that is appropriate for the victim.
For those who have been in a car accident, the first and most important task is to find medical help and get treated. Resolving the potential issues like permanent disability or incapacitating issues is key. Next, it is important to find the right legal counsel to handle the case and make sure all filings are done in a timely manner. It is also important to have a lawyer on your side for assistance when the situation gets stressful or difficult to manage.
How Do I Find a Good Mobile car accident lawyer?
A Google search of local Alabama car accident lawyers is a good place to start. Following that search, browse the lawyer’s website and look through their practice area pages to see if your case can be covered. The lawyers’ “About” page may also give you insight into how long they have been practicing and if they have won any awards for their service. This can be helpful to boost confidence and cut down on stress levels for the accident victim, provided the lawyer decides to take the case.
The next step is to arrange a preliminary consultation. Choose an auto accident lawyer that seems logical to handle the case, then make an appointment. This is the time to ask any questions about potential handling, discuss sticking points regarding the specific car accident this case focuses on, and make sure to share as many relevant details as possible. Discuss retainers and other related fees, so the complete cost of the case can be at least estimated before moving forward.
Consult with a Mobile car accident attorney About Your Case
The right car accident lawyer will be able to think of things you might miss in handling your medical care, making sure all the bills are paid, and ensuring that the future is not full of stress and failure because of the car accident. And with years of experience in personal injury and car accident law, Charles McCorquodale Law will be able to help you do all of the above and more throughout your case.
If you are looking for a car accident attorney, consider arranging a consultation with Charles McCorquodale Law. Call 251-220-2790 to arrange a meeting and discuss your legal options for seeking compensation following your Mobile car wreck.
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