Birmingham Pedestrian Accident Attorneys

Birmingham Pedestrian Accident Attorneys

Pedestrians face some of the most severe dangers on Alabama roads. According to statewide crash data, hundreds of people on foot are injured each year in collisions involving cars, trucks, and commercial vehicles, which has increased by around 56% from 2012 to 2021. Because pedestrians have no protection from the force of impact, these accidents often lead to catastrophic injuries, long-term disability, and overwhelming financial stress.

If you or a loved one was struck by a vehicle, you deserve a pedestrian accident attorney who knows how to navigate the complexities of Alabama law and who will not back down when an insurance company tries to shift blame or minimize your compensation.

At Serious Injury Law Group, our attorneys have secured major recoveries for injured pedestrians and grieving families throughout Alabama and Georgia.

Understanding  Pedestrian Accident Claims in Alabama & Georgia

Pedestrian claims are often more complex than typical auto accident cases. Alabama’s & Georgia’s right-of-way laws, the severity of injuries, and the insurance company’s aggressive tactics can make these cases difficult to navigate without experienced legal representation.
Here’s what you need to know about how these accidents happen and what makes them so challenging:

How Pedestrian Accidents Commonly Occur

Pedestrian collisions can happen anywhere, in crosswalks, intersections, parking lots, sidewalks, and residential streets. Some of the most common causes include:

• Speeding, Distracting Driving & Impaired Driving: Drivers who are texting, under the influence, or traveling too fast for conditions often fail to see pedestrians until it’s too late. A single moment of inattention can cause life-altering harm.
• Failure to Yield at Crosswalks or Intersections: Even when pedestrians follow the law, drivers may ignore crosswalks, roll through stop signs, or turn without checking their surroundings.
• Parking Lot Accidents: Low-speed areas like parking lots create high-risk situations for pedestrians. Drivers backing up, navigating tight spaces, or rushing to exit can easily strike someone on foot.
• Poor Lighting & Visibility Conditions: Early morning, evening, and nighttime conditions dramatically increase the risk of a collision, especially in areas without proper street lighting.

Common Injuries in Pedestrian Collisions

Because pedestrians lack physical protection, injuries are often catastrophic. Our attorneys frequently represent clients suffering from:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)
• Broken or crushed bones
• Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
• Internal bleeding and organ damage
• Loss of limbs
• Wrongful death

Why Pedestrian Claims Are More Complex

Pedestrian accident cases require a higher level of legal investigation and strategy compared to standard auto accidents. They often involve:

• Higher Medical Costs & Long-Term Care Needs: Severe injuries may require surgeries, lifelong treatment, and rehabilitation, all of which increase the value of a claim and the potential for insurer pushback.
• Disputes Over Fault or Visibility: Insurance companies may argue the pedestrian “came out of nowhere,” wasn’t in a crosswalk, or wore dark clothing in an unlit area. We know how to counter these tactics.
• Insurance Company Pushback: Alabama’s contributory negligence rule makes insurers extremely aggressive in trying to blame pedestrians, even when the driver was clearly negligent.
• Need for Accident Reconstruction: To overcome disputed facts, we often work with reconstruction specialists to analyze scene evidence, impact points, driver behavior, and video footage.

How Our Pedestrian Accident Attorneys Help

When you hire Serious Injury Law Group, you get a team that handles every part of your claim while you focus on your recovery. Our approach is thorough, strategic, and built on years of experience fighting for injured pedestrians.

Investigating the Accident

We start with a comprehensive investigation to establish exactly what happened and who is responsible. No detail is too small when it comes to proving liability. This may include:

• Obtaining police reports, 911 calls, and EMS records
• Securing video footage from traffic cameras, security cameras, or dash cams
• Interviewing witnesses
• Reviewing driver cellphone data
• Analyzing vehicle damage, skid marks, and scene evidence
• Working with accident reconstruction experts

Negotiating With Insurance Companies

Insurance companies often try to offer quick, low settlements, especially in pedestrian cases. Our attorneys:

• Handle all communication with insurers
• Protect you from tactics designed to shift blame
• Present strong evidence proving fault
• Fight for the maximum settlement possible based on your injuries

We do not accept low-ball offers, and we do not let insurers take advantage of injured victims.

Preparing Your Case for Trial If Needed

While many claims settle, some require litigation. Our attorneys are experienced trial lawyers who aren’t afraid to take your case before a jury if it means securing the best possible outcome. Insurance companies know we are willing to go to court, and that gives our clients leverage.

Compensation You May Be Entitled To from a Pedestrian Accident

Every case is unique, but injured pedestrians may be eligible to recover several types of damages.

Economic Damages

These include all financial losses caused by the accident, such as:

• Past and future medical bills
• Physical therapy and rehabilitation
• Lost wages due to missed work
• Reduced earning capacity if you can’t return to your previous job
• Assistive devices, home modifications, and other long-term needs

Non-Economic Damages

These damages compensate you for the pain and emotional burden caused by the accident, including:

• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Trauma and psychological injuries

Wrongful Death Damages

If your loved one passed away after being hit by a vehicle, you may be able to pursue a wrongful death claim. Depending on the circumstances, compensation may include:

• Punitive damages (allowed under Alabama’s wrongful death law; Georgia does not allow punitive damages in wrongful death cases, but will accept separate actions filed in specific circumstances)
• Funeral and burial expenses
• Loss of financial support
• Loss of companionship and guidance

FAQs About Pedestrian Accident Claims in Alabama & Georgia

What should I do after being hit by a car as a pedestrian?

Seek medical care immediately, even if you feel okay. Call the police, collect the driver’s information, take photos if possible, and contact an attorney before speaking with the insurance company.

How long do I have to file a pedestrian accident claim in Alabama or Georgia?

In Alabama, most personal injury claims must be filed within two years. Georgia also generally allows two years. However, exceptions may apply, so speak with a lawyer as soon as possible to ensure you don’t miss the time window.

Can I still recover compensation if I’m partially at fault?

Alabama’s contributory negligence law is extremely strict. If the insurance company can prove you were even 1% at fault, they may try to deny your claim. Georgia follows a modified contributory negligence law, so damages can still be recovered if you were less than 50% at fault, but the compensation will be reduced by this percentage. This makes legal representation crucial from day one.

Contact Our Pedestrian Accident Lawyers Today

You don’t have to face the insurance company alone. The attorneys at Serious Injury Law Group are ready to protect your rights, investigate your case, and fight for the compensation you need to rebuild your life.

We offer free consultations, and you pay nothing unless we win your case.

Contact us today to speak with an Alabama or Georgia pedestrian accident lawyer.