Personal injuries can take a number of shapes, and each and every incident has the potential to cause devastating, life-changing injuries for victims. From car accidents to workplace slips, it is crucial that you have the advice and information you need to achieve the justice you deserve, and that you understand your rights when it comes to personal injury cases.

Here at Pharr & Associates Injury Attorneys, we have worked with individuals across Alabama to fight for their cases, and we have the skills and experience you need to succeed in your stand for justice.

What Is a Personal Injury?

Any injury to the body or mind of an individual (as opposed to property damage) is considered a personal injury. There are a range of accidents and events which fall under this category, and these include:

  • Auto accidents (including those involving motorcycles, cars, and cargo trucks)
  • Medical malpractice or negligence
  • Workplace injuries (including slips, trips, and falls)
  • Product liability and defective or faulty products
  • Brain or spinal cord injuries

Ultimately, the goal in any personal injury case is to determine who was at fault for your injuries, either from reckless or negligent behavior. If you are able to prove that a third party was to blame for the accident and any subsequent injuries incurred as a result, they may be liable to pay costs and damages.

What Damages Can I Claim?

The liable party will be required to pay you damages for your injuries, and these can be used to cover a range of essential expenses, including:

  • Medical Costs: this can apply to any costs incurred at the time of the accident and any ongoing expenses, such as surgery, therapy, physiotherapy, medication, ambulance trips, doctor visits, etc.
  • Adaptations: if your injuries require adjustments to be made to your home or vehicle, damages and compensation can be used to cover these costs. Such outgoings can be incredibly expensive, so a safety net is vital.
  • Loss of Earnings: as with medical costs, this can apply to the time of the accident as well as ongoing or later expenses. In the event that you are unable to work, you will be able to claim for loss of earnings to cover all essential costs. In addition, if you have reduced earning capacity due to the accident (like being forced to accept a role that pays less), you will also be in a position to claim expenses.

What Is Meant By ‘Contributory Negligence?

Alabama is a state which operates under the concept of ‘contributory negligence.’ In short, this means that if you are found to be in any way to blame for the accident, you will be prohibited from claiming damages and expenses from the third party. Actions which may place you ‘at fault’ include:

  • Trespassing or entering an area of a property you had no invitation or right to be in
  • Wearing inappropriate footwear which resulted in an accident
  • Failing to pay due care and attention while driving
  • Driving a vehicle which you knew to be dangerous or faulty
  • Using a product in a way it was not designed for or which you knew to be faulty

The decision will ultimately be up to the judge in charge of the case, but it is important to note that any blame on your part—even if it is just 1%—will block you from pursuing any damages, costs, or compensation.

How Long Do I Have to Act?

Alabama’s statute of limitations gives all victims in personal injury cases a total of two years from the date of the accident to start proceedings. Any cases which are submitted after this date are not very likely to be heard, unless there are extremely unusual circumstances.

What Are My Next Steps?

If you have been caught up in a car accident, suffered an injury in the workplace, or feel you have been the victim of medical malpractice, now is the time to take action. An experienced, qualified attorney should be your next port of call, and the perfect place to start your journey.

Here at Pharr & Associates Injury Attorneys, we have worked with victims of personal injuries all across Alabama and have a wealth of experience in a wide range of cases. Our legal team can advise you on your best course of action and put the steps in place to help you achieve the justice you deserve. Why not get in touch today by calling (256) 487-6080 and see how we can take the load from your shoulders.