Trucking accidents in Birmingham, Alabama can occur on major interstate highways or on rural back roads, often due to truck driver or trucking company negligence. When a large tractor-trailer, big rig, or 18-wheeler strikes a much smaller vehicle, the occupants of the smaller vehicle are usually injured.
If you recently sustained injuries in a Birmingham truck collision, the knowledgeable legal team at Shunnarah Truck Accident Lawyers can handle every step of the process for you. We will thoroughly investigate your case, file a claim on your behalf, and explain your legal options. We can negotiate with insurance company representatives or litigate your case in court if the insurance company does not agree to compensate you fairly.
For a free case evaluation and legal consultation with a skilled Birmingham truck accident attorney, please call us at 866-455-3629 or contact us online to learn more.
Why Choose Us for Your Legal Needs after a Truck Accident?
When it comes to recovering compensation for your injuries following a trucking accident, you want a
skilled team of lawyers aggressively advocating for you. The experienced Birmingham truck accident attorneys at Shunnarah Truck Accident Lawyers understand the tricks and tactics that insurance companies typically use to undervalue cases. We can fight for your rights and interests in pursuit of the full compensation you need.
Our lawyers have recovered millions of dollars on behalf of injured accident victims, including those injured in commercial trucking accidents. You can review our most recent client testimonials here. Let us maximize the compensation you receive for your truck-accident losses.
Injured In A Truck Accident?
How Much Can I Get for a Birmingham, Alabama Truck Accident Case?
In a Birmingham trucking accident case, the value of your claim can vary based on several factors, including the severity of the accident, the extent of your injuries, and the level of negligence involved. The compensation you may recover can be broadly divided into economic, non-economic, and punitive damages.
Economic damages cover the tangible financial losses you incur due to the truck accident. This includes medical expenses, such as hospital stays, surgeries, and ongoing treatments. It also covers lost income if your injuries prevent you from working, and future lost earning potential (i.e., if your injuries affect your ability to work long-term). Additionally, economic damages may cover property damage, including repair or replacement of your vehicle.
Noneconomic damages address the intangible losses that are harder to quantify. These damages include pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of life enjoyment. These damages aim to compensate you for the physical pain and emotional turmoil you experience as a direct result of the accident and your injuries.
Punitive damages are less common and are awarded in cases where the at-fault party’s (defendant’s) conduct was particularly egregious or reckless. These damages are intended to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar behavior in the future. In Alabama, punitive damages are subject to certain limits and must be justified according to the severity of the negligence or misconduct.
To determine the total value of your case, it’s essential to gather thorough documentation, including medical records, accident reports, and evidence of lost income. At Shunnarah Truck Accident Lawyers, we can help you navigate the legal process, negotiate with insurance companies, and ensure you receive fair compensation for your losses. We can also help assess the full extent of your damages and advocate for your best interests throughout the legal proceedings.
Where do Truck Accidents in Birmingham, Alabama Most Frequently Occur?
In Birmingham, Alabama, trucking accidents often occur in specific locations where truck driver or trucking company negligence is prevalent. These common locations include major highways, busy intersections, and industrial areas.
Major highways like Interstate 20, Interstate 59, and Interstate 65 are frequent sites for trucking accidents. Trucks travel long distances on these roads, which increases the chance of driver fatigue, speeding, or improper lane changes. If truck drivers or companies fail to follow safety regulations or maintain their vehicles, accidents can easily happen on these high-traffic routes.
Busy intersections are another common location for trucking accidents. In Birmingham, areas with heavy traffic, such as the intersection of Highway 280 and I-459, can be risky. Truck drivers making turns or crossing lanes in these congested areas may cause accidents if they don’t properly signal their intentions or are not attentive to surrounding traffic.
Industrial areas where trucks frequently pick up or deliver goods also see a lot of accidents. These areas may include locations near warehouses, distribution centers, or manufacturing plants. Trucks moving in and out of these facilities can be involved in accidents if they are not properly loaded, if their drivers are not careful, or if there are issues with the facility’s design that make maneuvering difficult.
Residential areas with heavy truck traffic can also be problematic. Trucks may be used for deliveries or construction work in neighborhoods. If truck drivers are not cautious, they can cause accidents by speeding, failing to stop at stop signs, or not accounting for pedestrians and smaller vehicles.
Categories of Birmingham Truck Accidents
In Birmingham, Alabama, various types of commercial trucking accidents can occur due to truck drivers or trucking companies acting negligently. These accidents often result from violations of road rules or state and federal motor carrier regulations. Here are some common types:
- Rear-End Collisions – These accidents happen when a truck driver fails to maintain a safe following distance and crashes into the vehicle ahead. Negligence can include speeding, distracted driving, or not adjusting speed for roadway conditions.
- Jackknife Accidents – This type of accident occurs when truck's trailer swings out to the side, forming a sharp angle with the cab. This can happen if a driver brakes too hard, takes a turn too quickly – or if the truck’s brakes are not properly maintained.
- Wide Turn Accidents – Trucks need a wide turning radius, and accidents can occur if drivers misjudge their turns. This is especially dangerous at intersections. Negligence can include failing to use turn signals or not checking blind spots properly.
- Rollovers – Rollovers happen when a truck tips over onto its side or roof. This can result from excessive speeding, sharp turns, or overloaded cargo. Rollovers become more likely if a trucking company improperly loads the truck or the driver ignores safety protocols.
- Head-On Collisions – These are among the most dangerous types of accidents and occur when a truck and another vehicle crash front-to-front. Causes can include driving in the wrong lane or a truck driver veering off course due to drowsy driving or impaired judgment.
- Side-Impact Collisions – Also known as T-bone crashes, these occur when a truck collides with the side of another vehicle. They often happen at intersections when a truck driver negligently runs a red light or fails to yield, possibly due to driver fatigue or distraction.
- Cargo Spills – When cargo is not secured properly, it can spill onto the road, causing accidents. Negligence can include improper loading, failing to check cargo securement, or ignoring weight limits.
Most Likely Injuries in Birmingham Truck Accidents
In Birmingham, Alabama, victims of trucking accidents often suffer a range of physical and mental injuries. These injuries can be severe and long-lasting, affecting many aspects of their lives.
Physical Injuries:
- Broken Bones – The force of a trucking accident often results in fractures or broken bones, especially to the victim’s ribs, legs, and arms.
- Spinal Cord Injuries – Severe truck collisions can also damage the victim’s spinal cord, leading to partial or complete paralysis. Victims may experience loss of movement or sensation in various parts of the body, which can dramatically affect their quality of life.
- Whiplash and Neck Injuries – These injuries occur when the victim’s head is suddenly jolted forward and backward. This can lead to chronic neck pain, stiffness, and other complications.
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs) – A TBI occurs when a sudden truck collision causes the victim’s brain to collide with their skull. Common examples include concussions, comas, and diffuse axonal injuries.
- Internal Injuries – The significant force associated with a truck accident can cause internal injuries such as damage to organs or internal bleeding.
Mental Injuries:
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) – Victims of commercial trucking accidents may develop PTSD, including severe anxiety and flashbacks about the accident.
- Depression – The stress and trauma from an accident, combined with physical injuries and lifestyle changes, can lead to depression. Symptoms may include persistent sadness, loss of interest in activities, and difficulties coping with daily tasks.
- Anxiety Disorders – Anxiety about driving or being in a vehicle can become overwhelming for accident victims. This can include general anxiety or specific phobias related to travel.
At Shunnarah Truck Accident Lawyers, we can handle the legal steps of your case while you focus on completing your medical treatment regimen.
Fighting the Insurance Company in a Birmingham Truck Accident Case
In a Birmingham, Alabama truck accident case, fighting the insurance company can be challenging, but having the right support can make a big difference. At Shunnarah Truck Accident Lawyers, here’s how we can help you:
- Gathering All of the Necessary Evidence – We can begin by collecting all relevant evidence from the truck accident. This includes police reports, medical records, photos of the crash scene, and statements from eyewitnesses. Strong evidence is vital in proving the truck driver’s or trucking company’s negligence.
- Assessing Your Damages – We’ll work to fully understand the extent of your injuries and damages. This includes calculating medical expenses, lost income, and any pain and suffering you experienced. Proper assessment ensures that we claim the full amount you deserve.
- Dealing with Insurance Company Adjusters Effectively – Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts. We will handle all negotiations with the insurance adjusters, ensuring they don’t take advantage of you. Our goal is to secure a fair settlement that reflects the true value of your claim.
- Filing a Lawsuit if Needed – We are prepared to take your case to court if the insurance company is unwilling to offer you a fair settlement. We’ll file a lawsuit and aggressively represent your interests in front of a judge and jury.
- Providing Legal Knowledge – Understanding trucking regulations and laws can be complex. We have the legal knowledge and skills to navigate these regulations and use them to support your case. This includes identifying any violations that contributed to the trucking accident.
- Advocating for Your Rights – Throughout the process, we will advocate for your rights and work to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. This includes addressing your concerns and keeping you informed about the progress of your case.
Steps to Take after a Birmingham Truck Crash
After a truck accident in Birmingham, Alabama, taking the right steps is crucial for your recovery and legal claim. First, you must follow through with all medical treatment recommendations. Adhering to your doctor’s advice ensures that you receive the necessary care and creates a detailed medical record, which is important for your case.
Next, gather important documentation. This includes police reports, which provide an official account of the accident; medical records and bills, detailing your injuries and treatment costs; and other relevant documents like witness statements or photos from the accident scene. These documents are vital for proving your case and calculating the compensation you may be entitled to receive.
Finally, consult with a knowledgeable Birmingham truck accident attorney right away. At Shunnarah Truck Accident Lawyers, we will take the time to help you understand your rights and ensure that you meet all of the necessary deadlines in your case. We will also gather the evidence to prove your claim, negotiate with insurance companies, and fight for fair compensation. These steps will help you build a strong case and increase your chances of a successful outcome.
Injured In A Truck Accident?
Contact a Skilled Birmingham Truck Accident Lawyer Today
If you suffered injuries in a recent Birmingham, Alabama, trucking accident, you want an experienced legal team in your corner fighting for you. The knowledgeable attorneys at Shunnarah Truck Accident Lawyers will aggressively fight for your interests and pursue the full compensation you need for your accident-related losses.
For a free case evaluation and legal consultation with a Birmingham trucking accident lawyer, please call us at 866-455-3629 or contact us online right away.