ALABAMA MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENT ATTORNEYS
Legal Steps After a Motorcycle Accident in Alabama
The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) reports that motorcyclists are as much as 35 times more likely to be involved in a fatal motor vehicle accident than drivers in standard passenger vehicles. Even with proper safety gear—such as motorcycle helmets and heavy clothing—motorcyclists do not have the same level of protection as vehicle occupants. As a result, they face a much higher risk of catastrophic injury and death.
At Morris Haynes Attorneys at Law, we recognize the unique challenges injured motorcyclists face after collisions with larger, heavier motor vehicles.
If you or someone you love was involved in a motorcycle accident in Alexander City, Birmingham, or any surrounding area, reach out to our firm right away. Our attorneys can explain your options and help you pursue the fair compensation you are owed. We proudly serve clients throughout Alabama and can assist you in English or Spanish.
Injured in a motorcycle accident? Call Morris Haynes Attorneys at Law at (205) 324-4008 or contact us online today for a free, no-obligation consultation.
Identifying the Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
There is a common misconception that motorcyclists are typically risky or dangerous drivers. While there are exceptions, the truth is that most motorcyclists are highly skilled and defensive drivers.
In fact, most motorcycle accidents occur not because of the motorcyclist’s own error but due to the negligence of the other motorist involved.
Some common causes of motorcycle accidents include:
- Speeding
- Drunk driving
- Distracted driving
- Fatigued driving
- Tailgating (following too closely)
- Unsafe turns
- Failing to check for motorcyclists in blind spots
- Illegal passing
- Failing to yield the right of way
- Opening car doors into motorcyclists
- Running red lights or stop signs
- Aggressive driving
- Road rage
- Unsafe merging
- Cutting off motorcyclists
These and other negligent driving behaviors can lead to devastating consequences for motorcyclists. Sometimes accidents result from, or are made worse by, poor weather conditions, auto defects, unsafe roadways, or defective safety gear.
At Morris Haynes Attorneys at Law, our Alabama motorcycle accident attorneys evaluate all available evidence to determine how the crash occurred and, most importantly, who is at fault. When appropriate, we can help you file a standard personal injury claim, as well as a product liability claim against a liable manufacturer.
Understanding Fault and Liability in Motorcycle Accidents
Alabama is a “fault-based” state for motor vehicle collisions and injury claims. This means injured accident victims must file claims with the at-fault party’s insurance company to receive compensation for damages such as medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Therefore, proving the other party’s fault becomes a critical part of your claim.
Fault is especially important because Alabama follows a contributory negligence rule. Under this rule, an injured victim cannot recover compensation if they are even one percent at fault for the crash. This standard is far stricter than the comparative negligence rules in many other states, which allow victims to recover reduced compensation based on their percentage of fault.
Because Alabama imposes strict rules on fault and liability, it is essential to work with an attorney after a motorcycle accident.
At Morris Haynes Attorneys at Law, we not only know how to build strong, evidence-based claims, but we also know how to present these cases to judges and juries who may already carry bias against motorcycle riders. With more than 30 years of experience and over $1 billion recovered for our clients, we understand what it takes to win these cases.
Comprehensive Legal Support for Motorcycle Accident Victims
If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle accident, you may be dealing with serious injuries and extensive financial losses. Right now, your priority should be healing and securing medical care—not fighting with an insurance company for a fair settlement.
At Morris Haynes Attorneys at Law, we are prepared to handle every detail of the legal process, including:
- Investigating the accident to determine what happened and who is liable
- Working with accident reconstructionist and other experts to build your case
- Developing innovative legal strategies tailored to your unique situation
- Gathering and presenting applicable evidence in support of your claim
- Putting together and filing necessary documents and paperwork
- Communicating with the insurance company on your behalf
- Helping you find and obtain proper medical treatment and care (if needed)
- Answering any questions you may have throughout the legal process
- Advocating for your maximum recovery and preparing for litigation
- Representing you and your best interests at trial if necessary
We are here to support you at every stage, from your first call through the final resolution of your case. Our Alabama motorcycle accident attorneys offer compassionate, personalized legal counsel along with an aggressive approach designed to secure maximum compensation.
We do not collect any attorney fees unless we recover compensation for you. Call (205) 324-4008 or contact us online to get started with a free consultation today.