At the Law Office of Dwayne L. Brown, we have represented injury victims for more than 30 years. Our Pelham personal injury attorney has helped individuals and families pursue the compensation they need to recover after serious accidents. If you have been in a car accident, we can guide you through the legal process with the professional care and dedication you deserve.
Car accidents often happen without warning, leaving victims unsure about their next steps. Medical bills, lost income, and stress about how to move forward can feel overwhelming. That is where a car accident attorney in Pelham, Alabama, can step in. By working closely with each client, we aim to remove confusion, explain the process, and handle the details of the claim so that you can focus on recovery. Call today for a free case consultation.
Common Causes of Pelham Auto Accidents
Whether it was on a busy road like U.S. Highway 31, during a morning commute to work, or in the grocery store parking lot, vehicle accidents can happen at any time. According to the 2023 Crash Facts, there were 143,487 crashes across Alabama, resulting in 37,792 injuries and 975 fatalities. Shelby County experienced 3,239 crashes at intersections and 2,818 non-intersection related crashes.
Some of the most common causes include:
- Distracted driving, including texting behind the wheel
- Speeding or reckless driving
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Failing to yield at intersections or stop signs
- No adjusting to poor weather and dangerous road conditions
These actions create serious risks, and the resulting injuries can alter a person’s life in an instant.
Seeking Compensation in Alabama Motor Vehicle Accident Cases
Alabama law allows victims of negligent drivers to pursue compensation for their injuries. Victims may suffer such injuries as:
- Broken bones
- Spinal cord injuries (SCI)
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Whiplash and soft tissue injuries
- Emotional trauma, such as anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress
Many individuals in Pelham can receive immediate medical attention at Shelby Baptist Medical Center. However, medical care often continues long after the initial visit. Rehabilitation, therapy, and follow-up appointments can last months or years.
However, a successful car accident claim can address the losses you have suffered. You may seek such economic and non-economic damages as the following:
- Medical expenses
- Lost income during recovery
- Reduced earning ability due to lasting injuries
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, or trauma
- Property damage
Alabama follows strict rules on negligence, which means that even a small amount of fault assigned to the victim can affect compensation. Insurance companies are aware of this and may try to shift blame or pressure you into accepting a low settlement.
We can protect you from these tactics.
We have recovered more than $100,000,000 for clients and received recognition in Super Lawyers and Lawyers of Distinction for our work advocating for injured individuals across the state.
How We Help Clients After a Car Accident
Attorney Dwayne Brown believes in giving every case the attention it deserves, which is why we intentionally work with a limited number of clients at a time. This approach allows us to:
- Understand how the accident has impacted your health, work, and family life
- Check in regularly to monitor both physical recovery and emotional well-being
- Connect you with trusted doctors, specialists, and psychologists as needed
- Recommend secondary medical opinions if your treatment is not progressing
- Provide timely updates about the status of your claim
- Answer questions promptly and adjust our approach as your needs evolve
- Work on contingency fees, so you pay nothing unless we win
Clients often tell us that frequent communication gives them peace of mind during a stressful time. We see it as part of our role to not only pursue financial recovery but also to support your overall well-being.
Statute of Limitations for Car Accident Cases in Alabama
In most situations, Alabama law gives you two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit with the Shelby County Courthouse. Missing this deadline generally means losing the right to recover damages, no matter how strong your case may be.
We understand how these deadlines interact with medical treatment, settlement negotiations, and court filings. Acting quickly helps preserve your rights and strengthens your position in negotiations.
What To Do After a Car Accident in Pelham
The moments following a crash can feel chaotic, but the steps you take are critical to your health and your case:
- Call 911: Having police and emergency responders at the scene ensures injuries are treated quickly.
- Seek medical attention: Getting examined protects both your health and your claim.
- File a police report: The Pelham Police Department will document details of the accident.
- Gather evidence: Photos, witness contact information, and accident notes often strengthen a case.
- Document everything: Medical records, repair estimates, and missed workdays all show the true impact of the accident.
- Before speaking with insurance, contact an attorney: Legal guidance from the beginning prevents mistakes that could weaken your case.
Each of these steps matters and can affect the outcome of the case.
Connect With a Pelham Car Accident Lawyer
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident in Pelham, the Law Office of Dwayne L. Brown is here to help. We will work with you to understand your needs, connect you to the right resources, and pursue the compensation you deserve.
Call or complete our online form for a free consultation and learn more about your legal options.
Pelham Car Accident FAQs
Do all car accident cases go to trial?
Not all cases require a trial. Many claims are resolved through negotiation with insurance companies. However, if the insurer does not make a fair offer, a trial may become the best option. We prepare each case as though it could go to court so that we are ready if negotiations fail.
Can I recover damages if the other driver has no insurance?
Yes, but the process is different. Many clients rely on uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage from their own policies. In some cases, we may also pursue other liable parties. Our role is to explore every possible option for compensation.
How long does it usually take to resolve a car accident case?
The timeline depends on the complexity of the case, the severity of injuries, and whether a trial is required. Some cases settle in a few months once medical treatment stabilizes, while others may take a year or more. We keep you updated so you know what to expect throughout the process.
