Tuscaloosa Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
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Tuscaloosa has particularly heavy foot traffic around the University of Alabama (UA) campus and throughout downtown on game days, which can increase the risk of pedestrian accidents. When a pedestrian gets hit by a car, they have little protection from vehicles and often suffer severe injuries that have life-changing consequences. Victims often find themselves with sudden medical bills, missed work, emotional trauma, and pressure from insurance companies to settle their claims quickly.
At Mezrano® Law Firm, our Tuscaloosa pedestrian accident lawyers understand how a sudden crash can affect victims and their families. We are committed to protecting your rights and fighting for fair compensation that helps you move forward with your life.
If you were injured in a pedestrian crash, call 205-537-0112 or contact us online for a free consultation today. There is no upfront cost to get started, and no fees unless we win your case.
Why Choose Mezrano® Law Firm After a Pedestrian Accident in Tuscaloosa?
Founded in 2007, Mezrano® Alabama Injury and Car Accident Lawyers is a trial-ready firm that prioritizes thorough case preparation, in-depth investigations, and a personalized approach to every case. We have the resources to handle complex pedestrian accident claims while also giving each client the individual attention they deserve.
Here’s why injured pedestrians choose to work with our Tuscaloosa personal injury lawyers:
- Decades of experience: We have over 75 years of combined experience securing meaningful case results for our clients.
- Relentless legal advocacy: Our team will be by your side every step of the way to protect you from unfair insurance tactics.
- Structured service: Our team offers open communication, compassionate guidance, and intentional care to support you and your family.
- Integrity over speed: We don’t rush cases. We build them, taking the time required to pursue better outcomes.
- NO WIN = NO FEE representation: You only pay if we secure compensation for your claim.
“If you need a personal injury lawyer who operates at genius level and negtiates like they have a cheat code for the legal system, hire Mezrano. They turned a situation I thought was a disaster into a victory that still feels slightly magical. Professional, razor-sharp, and absolutely relentless – in the best possible way. I walked in stressed. I walked out impressed. Highly recommend.”
– Glenn G.
“I trusted Mezrano to win my case and they did just that. They were very professional, compassionate, and totally on my side. They made sure I waas always satisfied. They always gave me updates on a timely matter making sure I was up to date on every step. I would definitely recommend them and use them in the future if I ever needed to come back! My experience was great.”
– Harriett W.
“I am so thankful for the attorneys and staff at Mezrano. Everyone I spoke with was so polite, informative, and extremely responsive whenever I had a question. Mr. Ritchey and Daniela handled my case so swiftly and efficiently for me. I would definitely recommend them to anyone that needs an attorney.”
– Stephanie M.
How Traffic Laws Affect Pedestrian Accident Claims in Tuscaloosa, Alabama
Traffic laws determine who is at fault in a Tuscaloosa pedestrian accident and a victim’s ability to recover financial compensation. Here are Alabama laws that may impact your case:
Pedestrian Rights at Crosswalks
Drivers must yield the right of way to pedestrians crossing the road within any marked or unmarked crosswalk. Additionally, it is unlawful for a motorist to pass another vehicle that has stopped to allow a pedestrian to cross safely.
Driver Duties Toward Pedestrians
Motorists must exercise due care to avoid hitting pedestrians on any roadway. This duty requires drivers to honk their horn to give a warning when necessary and use extreme caution when children or confused individuals are around.
Jaywalking and Pedestrian Responsibilities
Pedestrians crossing outside a crosswalk must yield the right-of-way to all oncoming vehicles. They are legally prohibited from suddenly stepping into traffic when a vehicle is too close to stop, and they cannot cross intersections diagonally unless specifically directed by traffic control devices.
Alabama Contributory Negligence Rule
Alabama enforces a strict pure contributory negligence standard for personal injury claims. Under this rule, if a pedestrian is found even 1% at fault for the accident, they are completely barred from recovering any financial compensation. Because of this, insurance companies may try to shift blame to pedestrians to unfairly deny claims.
What Compensation Can You Recover in a Tuscaloosa Pedestrian Accident Claim?
If someone else’s negligence caused your pedestrian accident, you may be entitled to compensation for economic damages, which are your financial losses, and non-economic damages, which are the intangible ways you’ve suffered. Our Tuscaloosa pedestrian accident attorneys can fight for the full value of your losses, including:
Economic Damages:
- Past medical expenses
- Future medical expenses
- Past lost wages
- Future lost wages
- Loss of earning capacity
- Property damage
- Out-of-pocket expenses
- Rehabilitation costs
- Long-term care expenses
Non-Economic Damages:
- Pain and suffering
- Mental anguish
- Emotional distress
- Permanent injury or disability
- Disfigurement / scarring
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Inconvenience and annoyance
- Aggravation of pre-existing conditions
- Loss of consortium (spouse)
Families who have lost a loved one in a pedestrian accident may also qualify to recover additional damages, such as funeral costs and loss of support. Contact us to speak with a Tuscaloosa wrongful death lawyer who can walk you through your options.
Who May Be Liable for a Pedestrian Accident in Tuscaloosa?
Multiple parties can be responsible for a Tuscaloosa pedestrian crash depending on the circumstances. Common liable parties include:
- Negligent drivers: Distracted or careless drivers who speed, fail to yield right-of-way, or violate other traffic laws
- Commercial trucking companies: May be liable for their driver’s negligence, poor fleet maintenance, or inadequate driver training or supervision
- Government entities: Municipalities or agencies responsible for poorly timed signals, unmaintained crosswalks, or hazardous road conditions
- Vehicle manufacturers: Companies that designed or produced defective brakes or other vehicle parts that led to the accident
- Employers: Businesses that are legally responsible for employees driving negligently while on the clock
How Long Do You Have to File a Pedestrian Accident Claim in Alabama?
Under Alabama’s statute of limitations for personal injury, you generally have two years from the date of the pedestrian accident to file a claim. Missing this strict deadline means forfeiting your right to recover compensation. However, there are some exceptions, such as claims that involve minors or government agencies. Speak with our pedestrian injury lawyers in Tuscaloosa to see what timeline applies to your case. We can manage important deadlines on your behalf and secure crucial evidence before it is lost.
Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents in Tuscaloosa
Understanding why these tragic accidents happen can help make our community safer. In Tuscaloosa, pedestrian crashes are often connected to:
- Campus congestion: High foot traffic and student drivers around the UA campus
- Game day distractions: Heavy traffic congestion and excited crowds during Crimson Tide games
- Distracted driving: Motorists looking at their phones or away from the road rather than watching for pedestrians in busy downtown areas
- Failing to yield: Drivers making hurried turns through intersections without checking for people crossing
- Poor road visibility: Inadequate lighting on local streets, making pedestrians difficult to see at night
Common Injuries Caused By Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrians lack structural protection, leaving them highly vulnerable to serious physical trauma during a vehicle collision. Victims may suffer from:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs): Concussions and disruptions to brain function caused by violent blows or penetrating head trauma
- Spinal cord damage: Severe nerve injuries that can result in temporary or permanent paralysis
- Bone fractures: Painful breaks in the arms, legs, hips, or pelvis from direct impact
- Soft tissue damage: Extensive tears to ligaments, tendons, and muscles, often requiring lengthy physical therapy
- Internal injuries: Serious internal bleeding or organ damage that may need emergency medical intervention
- Road rash: Deep, painful skin abrasions and lacerations caused by rubbing across rough asphalt
Frequently Asked Questions About Tuscaloosa Pedestrian Accident Claims
Can I Recover Compensation if I Was Not in a Marked Crosswalk?
Yes, you may still recover compensation if the driver breached their duty of care when you were crossing in an unmarked crosswalk at an intersection. However, you must prove you did not suddenly step into traffic or violate jaywalking laws to avoid losing your claim.
What if the Driver Fled the Scene?
If you are the victim of a hit-and-run pedestrian crash in Alabama, your own auto insurance policy’s uninsured motorist (UM) coverage can step in to pay for your medical bills and lost wages. Alabama insurance policies cover you even if you are hit while walking as a pedestrian.
What if the Insurance Company Says I Was Partially at Fault?
Because Alabama uses a strict contributory negligence rule, any proven fault on your part completely bars you from recovering compensation. Consult a Tuscaloosa crosswalk accident attorney who can protect you from being unfairly blamed for what happened.
How Much Does a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Cost?
Our pedestrian accident attorneys operate on a contingency fee basis, which means there is no upfront cost to hire us, and you owe us nothing unless we win your case. Schedule a free consultation with our Alabama pedestrian accident lawyers to learn more.
What if the Accident Was Caused by Poor Road Design?
If a government entity designed a dangerous intersection or failed to maintain proper lighting, you can file a claim against the city, county, or state agency responsible for the roadway. These claims involve complex sovereign immunity rules and short filing deadlines, so it’s helpful to work with an attorney.
Speak With a Tuscaloosa Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Today
As your hometown attorneys, we’re ready to stand up to insurance companies that may try to blame you for the accident or minimize your payout. We provide aggressive legal advocacy with a deeply personal approach, helping you and your family pursue the compensation you need and deserve. Call 205-537-0112 or fill out our online form to schedule a free consultation with our attorneys.
No Fee Unless We Win. Period.
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Shaun P
Mezrano Law Firm is truly top-notch! The team was professional, responsive, and genuinely cared about my case from start to finish.
So thankful for Bailey at Mezrano Law, very very helpful!!!
Xochilth Orellana
Si necesitas un abogado que atienda tus necesidades legales, no busques mas llama a Mezrano