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Browse our 1 legal article about Accidents & Injuries in United States written by expert lawyers.
The field of Accident and Injury Law, often referred to as personal injury law, in Opelika acknowledges the legal rights of victims who have suffered physical or psychological harm due to the negligence or intentional harm of others. Key areas include automobile accidents, product defect accidents, workplace accidents, wrongful death and medical malpractice, among others. In Opelika, as in most other places, time limits known as "statute of limitations" are in play, allowing victims a certain timeframe within which they can file a lawsuit.
Accidents and injuries can result in dire physical, emotional, and financial consequences. If you've been injured due to someone else's negligence or intentional act, you may be able to obtain compensation. An attorney can help evaluate your case, gather necessary evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent your interests in court. This is particularly necessary when dealing with serious injuries, medical malpractice cases, refusal of your insurance company to pay, or in cases where there is a dispute about who's at fault.
In Opelika, as in the rest of Alabama, the law follows a pure contributory negligence rule, which means that if you’re found to have any degree of fault in the accident, you may not be able to recover any compensation. For medical malpractice claims, the statute of limitations is generally two years from the date of the injury. On the other hand, if the accident leads to a wrongful death, the family has two years from the date of death to file a lawsuit. Damages in personal injury cases in Alabama can include compensation for medical bills, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering.
First, seek appropriate medical treatment and ensure all relevant details pertaining to the incident are documented. If possible, gather evidence and witness statements at the accident scene. Notify your insurance company about the accident and consider consulting with a personal injury lawyer.
For most personal injury claims in Alabama, the statute of limitations is two years from the date of accident. If the injury was not discovered immediately after the accident, it is two years from the date of discovery of the injury.
Contributory negligence is a rule that means if a person was in any way, even slightly, at fault in an accident, they are barred from recovering damages. This policy is strictly followed in Alabama and makes the role of a skilled attorney crucial in personal injury cases.
Most personal injury lawyers operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning they are paid a percentage of the recovery, typically one-third. If you do not win your case, you typically do not owe any attorney fees.
In Alabama, due to the rule of Contributory Negligence, if you're found even 1% at fault you could be barred from recovery. However, every case is different and it is advisable to consult with a personal injury attorney to understand your legal options.
You might refer to resources such as the Alabama State Bar Association's attorney search tool, the City of Opelika's city ordinances, and Alabama Legal Help for additional legal and resources. Additionally, non-profit organizations like Victims of Crime Resource Center and United Way's 211 service can provide support.
If you or someone you know is in need of legal assistance due to an accident or injury, you should consult with an experienced personal injury attorney. They can assess your situation, inform you of your rights, and help guide you through the complex legal process. It's important to act promptly, not only because of the time limit on filing a lawsuit, but also to ensure preservation of evidence and witness testimony. Remember, the initial consultation with an attorney is typically free of charge.
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The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation.
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