To start Passion rocks. Every question I had she was on top of it within a few hours or next day i would get a responce. Tom took the time to talk to us and let us know what he could do for us and he did just that and then some…
Serving North Alabama
Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer
Why Hire A Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer
Prefer a visual explanation? Watch the drunk driving accident lawyer video video.
Why Choose McCutcheon & Hamner
What Sets McCutcheon & Hamner Apart From Other Personal Injury Attorneys
- Free Consultation
- No Out-Of-Pocket Expenses
- Only Pay If You Win
- Personal Injury Specialist
- Work Directly With Your Attorney
- Millions of Dollars Recovered
- Client-Centered Approach
- Small Firm Feel-Big Firm Results
- Personalized Attention & Care
Top Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer for Serious Injuries and Legal Claims
Were you injured by a drunk driver? Our expert car accident lawyers can help you get the payback you’re owed. This short piece will guide you on immediate steps after the wreck and how our legal team can strengthen your case.
Key Takeaways
- Each state has different rules, but most states including Alabama say that if your blood alcohol content is 0.08% or higher, you’re driving drunk. This can lead to serious punishments like big fines, time in jail, and losing your license.
- Getting a lawyer skilled in drunk driving accidents helps. They can show who’s at fault and fight for your money. Their know-how makes the legal steps complete and boosts your odds of winning.
- After a drunk driving accident, your first step should be getting medical help for anyone hurt at the accident scene. Next, let the police know about the incident. Collecting proof will help build a solid case if you decide to take legal action.
Understanding Drunk Driving Laws and Penalties
Every state has different rules about drunk driving. But they all want to prevent driving under the influence. If you’re 21 or older, a blood alcohol level of 0.08% you qualify as driving under the influence. Some states are tougher on truck drivers and folks under 21. In Alabama, the legal blood alcohol concentration is 0.08% for regular drivers and 0.04% for commercial drivers. For those under 21, any detectable amount of alcohol in the blood is considered illegal.
Drunk driving carries stiff penalties. They get worse if you’re a repeat offender or if someone gets hurt or dies. Drunk drivers might face big fines, time in jail, required alcohol counseling, and maybe community service. In Alabama multiple DWI convictions can lead to long jail sentences. Offenders might also need to put a special device in your car to stop future drunk driving.
If you’re in a drunk driving accident, know the laws matter. They can change your life. You could lose your license right away. Your insurance could go up for a long time. Know your rights and what you might face. It helps you get ready for the legal road ahead.
How a Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer Can Help You
Hiring a personal Injury attorney for your drunk driving accident can make a big difference in your fight for justice and money owed to you. Our skilled lawyers help folks show who’s at fault and go after the money they deserve. A seasoned lawyer stands by you throughout the legal process, allowing you to focus on getting better while they handle the tough parts of the case.
A good lawyer for drunk driving accidents works hard to gather additional proof that the drunk driver was at fault. They bring in experts to confirm your injuries and the treatment you need. If your case needs to go to trial, we’re ready to stand by your side and fight for your justice.
Our attorneys stand with you. Joel and I know the ins and outs of drunk driving accident cases. We dig into your case from start to finish. We help you get the money you need to heal. At our law firm, you’re not alone.
Steps to Take After a Drunk Driving Accident After
After a drunk driving or car wreck, quick action matters. Here’s what you do. Get medical help fast, for all injuries, seen and unseen. Next, tell the police. You need an official record. Last, collect all the evidence you can. This will help your case later. Stick to these steps after the accident.
These steps build a solid base for any legal claims you might file for. They document your injuries, hold the drunk driver responsible, and give you proof to show liability. We’ll talk more about each of these actions below.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention
After a drunk driving accident, make your well-being number one. Head to a doctor right away, even if you feel fine you might have suffered unseen injuries. Not all injuries show up at once, like those to your head, neck, or back. Call 911 for quick medical help.
Get to a doctor right away. It helps you heal and gives us the papers we need for your case. Those medical records show your injuries and the treatment you needed. They can help us get you compensated to pay for your medical bills and more. This step is key. It can make a big difference in your case. Remember always seek medical help, you life may depend on it. If you or a loved one has suffered severe head or spinal trauma call us we can make recommendations to medical providers the that will provide the best outcomes
Report the Accident to the Police
You need to tell the police about the accident. It’s not something to forget. It’s your legal shield and makes an official accident report. This matters a lot if you think the other driver was drunk. It’s a way to record your suspicion. When the police get involved, they perform a complete check. They gather proof and talk to witnesses.
Filing a police report helps with insurance claims and court cases. This report can show that the drunk driver was at fault and help with your accident claim. Give the police all the information you can so they can file a complete report.
Gather Evidence at the Scene
Don’t forget, right after a wreck, start collecting facts. Snap pictures and take videos of the scene. Get stories from folks who saw what happened. Write down injuries or damages you can see. If they’re around, videos from traffic or security cameras can show us clear as day what the other driver did. Photos of the interior of the offending driver’s vehicle might reveal open alcoholic containers that will strengthen your case.
The proof you gather right after the wreck matters a lot. It shows the other driver, the drunk one, was at fault. Don’t wait. Proof can get lost or messed up over time. Get all the facts you can. This will back up your side of the story and help your lawsuit.
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Proving Liability in Drunk Driving Accident Cases
Law enforcement officers often write about balance tests and breath tests in their reports. These help show the driver was not fit to drive. Key facts come from these reports, lab tests, blood or breath tests, and what folks saw happen.
Seeing the wreck through others’ eyes can back up your story. They can tell what the other driver did before and after the crash. Getting names and numbers from witnesses can make your case stronger. Sometimes the police might miss key details that witnesses can fill in.
Accident investigators can study clues to figure out what happened and who’s to blame. If someone’s found guilty of drunk driving, we can use that against them in court. So, if a drunk driver wrecks your day, get the cops on the scene. They’ll help collect the proof we need.
Together, these factors build a strong case. This can bring the drunk driver to account.
Types of Compensation Available in Drunk Driving Accident Claims
If a drunk driver hits you, you can ask for money to cover your losses. This might be for medical bills, lost wages, or damage to your car. These costs pile up fast. Getting this money can help ease your financial worries.
When you’re hurt in an accident you may suffer emotional damage as well as bodily injury. It can take away your joy, your peace, and everyday comfort. Those are real losses, and the law knows it. Sometimes, if the other driver acted recklessly, the law states that they should pay extra. These punitive damages are a way to make sure they learn their lesson.
Drunk driving cases can mean more money for you. Courts take them very seriously, especially if there was a crash. Knowing your compensation options can help you get the most money you’re owed.
Wrongful Death Claims in Drunk Driving Accidents
It’s a sad truth, but sometimes drunk drivers cause accidents where folks lose their lives. This can lead to what we call wrongful death claims. If you’re a parent, spouse, or kin of a person who’s passed on because of a drunk driver, you can file this claim against that driver. This claim can help cover money lost, costs of the funeral and burial, and the heartache you’re going through.
When a loved one dies wrongfully, it’s likely due to a driver’s drunkenness and carelessness. This brings deep pain and money troubles to the family. Getting justice in court can help ease these problems and make the guilty pay for their actions. Filing a wrongful death claim is one way to do this.
Free Consultation and No Win, No Fee Policy
If you’re hurt by a drunk driver, call us for a free talk about your case. Reach us at (256) 333-5000 or fill out an online form. You pay us nothing until we win money for you. Unlike other attorneys our fees don’t change if your case gets tougher to win or has to go to court. We pride ourselves on the fact that our clients will never have to come out of pocket.
Our ‘no win, no fee’ policy ties our success to yours. Don’t hold back. Call us for a private talk. We’ll look at your legal choices and go after the recovery that you deserve.
Summary
Dealing with a drunk driving accident is tough. But, knowing the laws, what a lawyer does, and what steps to follow can help a lot. After an accident, you should see a doctor right away. Contact 911 so a police report can be made. Take as many photos and collect contact information from any wittinesses at the accident scene. Every step helps you get to justice. Our firm can be a big help in these cases. We make sure your rights are safe and you have a good shot at a win.
You’re not by yourself in this. Call us for a free talk. We’ve got a policy – if you don’t win, you don’t pay. It’s your chance to explore your rights. That way, you can make a drunk driver or any other responsible party take responsibility for their crime. You can get the money you’re owed and the justice you need.
Injured By A Drunk Driver? Get The Legal Help You Deserve
Get Maximum Compensation with an Experienced Car Accident Lawyer
We Know Alabama DUI Law
I’ve spent decades handling drunk driving cases across North Alabama. I know how DUI laws work in civil court.
We use police reports, field tests, and arrests to build your claim. I make sure the facts support your case.
We Act Immediately
Time is critical after a drunk driving crash. I begin investigating as soon as you call.
We gather evidence, protect your rights, and stop the other side from spinning the story. Delay only helps them.
We Get Police Evidence
I secure breath tests, dashcam footage, and arrest records. That kind of proof puts pressure on the insurance company.
The more evidence we have, the stronger your case becomes. We don’t let key facts slip through the cracks.
We Push For Punitive Damages
Drunk drivers should pay more than medical bills. I fight for punitive damages to hold them fully responsible.
Punitive awards send a message. They make sure reckless drivers never forget what they caused.
We Handle The Insurance
Insurance companies try to avoid paying. I don’t let them. I speak their language and know their playbook.
I deal with adjusters so you don’t have to. I make them take your case seriously from day one.
We Calculate Every Loss
Your losses aren’t just medical. We count every missed paycheck, future expense, and daily pain.
I work with experts to calculate what you truly deserve. Then, I fight for every dollar of it.
We Know The Local Courts
I’ve practiced law in Huntsville, Florence, and Athens for over 40 years. I know what to expect in court.
That experience helps your case move smoother. I’m not guessing—I’ve done this before and know how it works.
We Interview Witnesses Quickly
Witnesses forget fast. I talk to them while the details are fresh.
Their stories often prove the driver was drunk. I get those accounts locked in early.
We Use Expert Testimony
I bring in accident reconstructionists and toxicology experts to support your case. Their testimony carries real weight in court.
Expert reports help prove your injuries and the driver’s impairment. They make it hard for insurers to argue.
We Organize Medical Records
Your treatment matters. I collect every bill, test, and doctor’s note to show how the crash hurt you.
We don’t let insurers ignore your pain. We make your injuries clear, documented, and undeniable.
We Delay Collections
Worried about medical bills? I talk to providers and keep them off your back until the case resolves.
You need time to heal. I give you breathing room while I handle the fight for compensation.
We Keep You Updated
You’ll never wonder what’s happening. I call you back, explain your options, and give you straight answers.
This is your case. You deserve to know exactly where it stands every step of the way.
You Pay Nothing Upfront
You won’t pay a dime unless I win. That’s how strongly I believe in your case.
You’ve already lost enough—I won’t add to it. My fee only comes from your recovery.
We Don’t Shy From Trial
Some lawyers avoid court. I don’t. If we need to file suit, I’ll do it without blinking.
I’ve stood in front of juries for years. I’ll stand in front of one for you.
Respected Across Alabama
I’ve helped families across North Alabama for decades. Many of my clients come from referrals—and that means a lot.
People trust me because I treat them right. That won’t change with you.
We Block Their Excuses
Drunk drivers and their lawyers try to shift blame. I shut that down with facts and testimony.
We show clearly who caused the crash. I don’t let them dodge accountability.
We Fight For Accountability
I’m not just chasing money. I want justice. Drunk drivers ruin lives—they should answer for that.
We fight to hold them fully responsible. That’s what I believe in.
We’re Built For Tough Cases
These aren’t easy cases. But I’ve been through them before.
I’ve got the grit and experience to see them through. When it’s tough, I dig in deeper.
Common Car Accident Injuries
Click On The Body Chart To Find Potential Injuries You May Have Suffered
Head Injuries
- Caused by a sudden jolt or impact to the head.
- Symptoms: Headache, dizziness, confusion, nausea, and memory loss.
- Cause: Brain Contusions (Bruising), Intracranial Hematomas (Blood Clots), Diffuse Axonal Injury (DAI), and Coup-Contrecoup Lesions due to the collision force.
- Symptoms: Persistent headaches, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, fatigue, blurred vision, sensitivity to light, sensitivity to sound and seizures or convulsions
- Bruising of the brain tissue due to direct impact.
- Symptoms: Swelling, bleeding, or pressure in the skull.
- Breaks or cracks in the skull caused by blunt force trauma.
- Symptoms: Bleeding, bruising around the eyes (raccoon eyes), or at the ears (Battle’s sign).
- Occurs when the brain’s axons are stretched or torn due to severe shaking or rotational forces.
- Symptoms: Often leads to unconsciousness or coma in severe cases.
- Collection of blood outside the brain’s blood vessels, often caused by a rupture during trauma.
- Types:
- Subdural Hematoma: Blood collects between the brain and its outer covering (dura).
- Epidural Hematoma: Blood pools between the skull and the dura.
- Intracerebral Hematoma: Blood collects within the brain tissue.
- Occurs when an object pierces the skull and enters the brain.
- Symptoms: Severe bleeding, loss of consciousness, and potential long-term neurological damage.
- Includes fractures to the jaw, cheekbones, or orbital bones, which may indirectly affect the head and brain.
- Symptoms: Swelling, bruising, and difficulty in movement or sensation.
- Though primarily a neck injury, severe whiplash can lead to a concussion or other brain injuries from the violent back-and-forth motion of the head.
- Can develop after any head injury due to trauma.
- Symptoms: Persistent headaches, often with sensitivity to light and sound.
It's crucial for anyone involved in a car accident to seek immediate medical evaluation, even if injuries seem minor, as some head injuries may not show symptoms right away but can worsen over time. Early diagnosis and treatment are vital for recovery.
Neck Injuries
- Cause: Sudden back-and-forth movement of the neck during impact.
- Symptoms: Neck pain, stiffness, headaches, dizziness, and limited range of motion.
- Severity: Varies from mild discomfort to long-term chronic pain.
- Cause: Stretching or tearing of neck ligaments, tendons, or muscles due to the collision force.
- Symptoms: Pain, swelling, muscle spasms, and reduced flexibility.
- Cause: The force of the accident can cause intervertebral discs in the cervical spine to rupture or bulge.
- Symptoms: Neck pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness that may radiate into the arms.
- Cause: Extreme force leading to a broken neck bone.
- Symptoms: Severe pain, swelling, and possible paralysis if the spinal cord is affected.
- Severity: Life-threatening; immediate medical attention is required.
- Cause: Damage to the small joints between vertebrae during impact.
- Symptoms: Pain in the neck, shoulders, and sometimes the back.
- Cause: Direct trauma to the spinal cord within the cervical spine.
- Symptoms: Loss of sensation, paralysis, or reduced motor function.
- Severity: Can range from partial to complete paralysis.
- Cause: Glass shards, debris, or sharp objects during the accident.
- Symptoms: Open wounds, bleeding, and risk of infection.
- Severity: May require surgical intervention.
- Cause: Compression, stretching, or severing of nerves in the neck area.
- Symptoms: Numbness, tingling, or shooting pain in the neck and arms.
- Cause: Damage to muscles, ligaments, or tendons.
- Symptoms: Pain, swelling, and stiffness.
- Cause: Damage to blood vessels in the neck, such as the carotid or vertebral arteries.
- Symptoms: Severe pain, swelling, and risk of stroke or other complications.
If someone is injured in a car accident, they should seek immediate medical evaluation, as some neck injuries may not show symptoms right away but can worsen over time.
Shoulder
- Description: The rotator cuff consists of muscles and tendons that stabilize the shoulder joint. Injuries can range from minor strains to complete tears.
- Symptoms: Pain, weakness, limited range of motion, and difficulty lifting the arm.
- Description: The ball of the shoulder joint is forcibly removed from its socket, often due to the impact or bracing during a crash.
- Symptoms: Severe pain, visible deformity, swelling, and inability to move the arm.
- Common Areas:
- Clavicle (Collarbone): Often fractured when the seatbelt restrains the body during a high-impact collision.
- Scapula (Shoulder Blade): Less common but can occur in severe accidents.
- Symptoms: Intense pain, swelling, bruising, and visible deformity.
- Description: Occurs when the tendons or bursa in the shoulder are compressed due to trauma, leading to inflammation.
- Symptoms: Pain when lifting the arm, weakness, and reduced mobility.
- Description: The labrum is a ring of cartilage that cushions the shoulder joint. Tears can result from the sudden force of an accident.
- Symptoms: Clicking or popping sound, instability, pain during movement, and weakness.
- Description: Damage to the ligaments, tendons, or muscles around the shoulder.
- Symptoms: Swelling, tenderness, stiffness, and reduced range of motion.
- Description: This condition can develop after a shoulder injury if the joint remains immobile for a prolonged period.
- Symptoms: Stiffness, pain, and limited movement.
- Description: The brachial plexus is a network of nerves near the shoulder that can be stretched or torn during an accident.
- Symptoms: Numbness, weakness, tingling, or a burning sensation in the arm.
Seek medical evaluation promptly after an accident, even if symptoms are mild, as some injuries may worsen over time.
Upper Arm
- Cause: A sudden force, such as bracing against the steering wheel, dashboard, or seatbelt, can overstretch or tear the bicep muscle.
- Symptoms: Pain, swelling, bruising, and weakness in the upper arm.
- Tendonitis: Inflammation of the bicep tendon due to repetitive or acute stress during impact.
- Tendon Rupture: A severe injury where the tendon detaches from the bone, often due to extreme force.
- Symptoms: Sharp pain, a snapping sensation, difficulty bending the elbow, and a visible deformity (e.g., a “Popeye” muscle bulge).
- Cause: Direct impact to the upper arm from the car interior or airbags.
- Symptoms: Swelling, discoloration, tenderness, and pain in the bicep area.
- A fracture of the humerus (upper arm bone) near the bicep can cause associated muscle or tendon damage.
- Symptoms: Severe pain, inability to move the arm, and possible deformity or swelling.
- The impact of a crash can compress or stretch nerves near the bicep, such as the musculocutaneous nerve.
- Symptoms: Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arm.
- Injuries to ligaments, fascia, or other supporting structures in the bicep area may occur due to overstretching or blunt force trauma.
- Symptoms: General pain, swelling, and reduced range of motion.
- The pressure from a seatbelt during sudden deceleration can compress or bruise the bicep muscle or tendon.
- Symptoms: Pain and bruising along the upper arm.
- Compensatory overuse of the bicep muscle due to other injuries (e.g., shoulder or wrist) can lead to secondary injuries like strain or tendonitis.
If a client has sustained such injuries, it's crucial to recommend seeking medical evaluation immediately. Diagnostic imaging like MRIs or X-rays can confirm the extent of the damage, and appropriate treatment (e.g., physical therapy, rest, or surgery) can be prescribed.
Elbow
- Radial Head Fracture: Often caused by bracing against the steering wheel or dashboard during impact.
- Olecranon Fracture: The bony tip of the elbow can fracture when directly struck or if excessive force is applied.
- Distal Humerus Fracture: The lower part of the upper arm bone may break during severe trauma.
- Elbow Dislocation: The joint can become displaced due to the force of the accident, often resulting in severe pain and limited movement.
- Ligament Sprains or Tears: The ligaments in the elbow may stretch or tear from sudden force or unnatural motion.
- Tendon Tears: Tendons, especially the biceps or triceps tendons, may rupture under extreme stress.
- Elbow Contusion: Bruising caused by a direct impact, leading to swelling and tenderness.
- Ulnar Nerve Compression (Cubital Tunnel Syndrome): Trauma can irritate or compress the ulnar nerve, causing numbness or tingling in the fingers.
- Radial or Median Nerve Injuries: These nerves may also suffer damage from impact or swelling.
- Olecranon Bursitis: Swelling of the bursa (a fluid-filled sac) over the elbow joint due to trauma or repetitive pressure.
- Pre-existing conditions like Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis) or Golfer’s Elbow (Medial Epicondylitis) can worsen due to the stress of the accident.
- Swelling, bruising, or deformity
- Sharp or persistent pain
- Limited range of motion
- Numbness or tingling in the fingers or forearm
- Weakness in the arm or hand
Depending on the severity, treatments may include immobilization, physical therapy, medication, or surgery. If you’re working on content for an injury law firm, you could emphasize the importance of seeking immediate medical evaluation and documenting injuries for potential claims.
Forearm
- Radius and Ulna Fractures: These bones make up the forearm, and fractures can occur in one or both bones. High-impact collisions often result in complex fractures.
- Colles’ Fracture: A specific type of fracture of the distal radius, often caused by bracing against the dashboard during a crash.
- Monteggia and Galeazzi Fractures: These involve fractures of the ulna or radius with associated dislocations, common in severe trauma.
- Muscle Strains and Tears: Sudden impact can strain or tear the muscles of the forearm.
- Tendon Injuries: Tendons connecting muscles to bones may be stretched or torn, particularly in high-impact accidents.
- Ligament Sprains: Sudden force can overstretch the ligaments in the wrist and forearm.
- Median Nerve Injuries: Often associated with forearm trauma, particularly fractures or crush injuries, leading to pain, numbness, or weakness in the hand and forearm.
- Ulnar and Radial Nerve Damage: Damage can result from direct trauma or compression caused by swelling or broken bones.
- This is a medical emergency caused by increased pressure within the muscles of the forearm, leading to reduced blood flow. It can occur after severe trauma, such as a car accident.
- When the forearm is trapped or compressed during the accident, it can result in severe damage to muscles, nerves, and bones.
- Lacerations: Sharp objects or debris from the crash can cause deep cuts, potentially damaging muscles, tendons, or nerves.
- Bruising (Contusions): Blunt force trauma during the collision can result in significant bruising.
- Dislocations of the elbow or wrist can occur when the forearm is subjected to excessive force or hyperextension.
- In severe accidents, the forearm may be partially or completely amputated, either during the collision or as a result of surgical intervention due to extensive trauma.
Treatment for forearm injuries often involves immobilization (casts or splints), surgery (e.g., to set fractures or repair torn tendons), physical therapy, and pain management. Prompt medical attention is critical, especially for injuries like compartment syndrome or nerve damage, which can lead to long-term complications if not treated quickly.
Wrist
- Distal Radius Fracture: The radius, one of the forearm bones, commonly breaks near the wrist during high-impact accidents.
- Scaphoid Fracture: This small bone in the wrist is vulnerable when the hand absorbs force.
- A sprain occurs when the ligaments in the wrist are overstretched or torn, often from sudden twisting or impact.
- Tendonitis: Overuse or acute trauma during an accident can inflame wrist tendons.
- Tendon Tears: Sudden force may partially or completely tear tendons in the wrist.
- Swelling or trauma to the wrist during an accident can compress the median nerve, causing pain, numbness, or tingling.
- The wrist’s small bones can dislocate due to the intense forces of a collision.
- Bruising, contusions, or damage to the muscles and tissues around the wrist are common, even without fractures.
- Bruising, contusions, or damage to the muscles and tissues around the wrist are common, even without fractures.
- Repetitive strain or acute trauma may cause inflammation in the tendons along the thumb side of the wrist.
Prompt medical attention is essential to diagnose and treat these injuries properly. Left untreated, they can lead to long-term pain, reduced mobility, or chronic conditions.
Hand
- Wrist Fractures: The radius and ulna bones in the wrist are frequently broken in car accidents.
- Finger Fractures: Direct impact or crushing injuries can cause fractures in the phalanges (finger bones).
- Metacarpal Fractures: These are fractures in the long bones of the hand connecting the wrist to the fingers.
- Wrist Sprains: Stretching or tearing of the ligaments due to sudden impact or awkward twisting motions.
- Finger Sprains: Caused by jamming the fingers during the accident.
- Damage to the tendons in the hand or wrist can occur due to lacerations, blunt trauma, or overstretching during the crash.
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Can develop from swelling or trauma to the wrist, compressing the median nerve.
- Peripheral Neuropathy: Nerve injuries caused by direct trauma to the hand.
- Cuts and punctures from broken glass, metal, or other debris can cause severe damage to the skin, tendons, and nerves in the hand.
- The hand may be crushed between the steering wheel, dashboard, or other parts of the vehicle, leading to extensive soft tissue, nerve, and bone damage.
- In severe accidents, fingers or parts of the hand may be amputated due to trauma or require surgical removal.
- Joints in the fingers, wrist, or thumb can be dislocated due to sudden and forceful movements.
- Hands may sustain burns from contact with hot engine parts, spilled fluids, or fires caused by the crash.
- Contusions (bruising) and swelling are common due to impact or airbag deployment.
Seek immediate care to assess the severity of the injury.
Chest & Back
Chest Injuries
- The force from a seatbelt, airbag, or collision can cause ribs to crack or break. These injuries are painful and can sometimes lead to complications like punctured lungs.
- Seatbelts and airbags often protect occupants but can cause significant bruising to the chest area.
- The breastbone can be fractured in high-impact collisions, particularly when a driver hits the steering wheel or is restrained by a seatbelt.
- Trauma to the chest can lead to air leaking into the space between the lung and chest wall, causing the lung to collapse.
- The heart, lungs, and major blood vessels in the chest are at risk of injury from severe impacts.
- Sprains, strains, or tearing of muscles, tendons, and ligaments in the chest area can result from sudden force.
Back Injuries
- The force of a collision can cause the soft material between vertebrae to bulge or rupture, compressing nearby nerves and causing pain.
- High-impact accidents can fracture the bones of the spine, leading to severe pain and mobility issues.
- Damage to the spinal cord can range from minor to severe and may result in partial or total paralysis.
- Strains and sprains in the back muscles and ligaments are common due to the rapid and unnatural movement of the body during a crash.
- The vertebrae may be compressed under extreme force, leading to fractures that can cause significant pain and long-term issues.
- Though often associated with the neck, whiplash can also strain the muscles and ligaments in the upper back.
If you or someone you know has suffered a chest or back injury in a car accident, seeking immediate medical attention and consulting with a personal injury attorney can help ensure proper care and compensation for damages.
Abdomen
- Bruising and Contusions: Often caused by seatbelts or airbags.
- Lacerations: From broken glass or debris.
- Liver Damage: The liver is prone to injuries like lacerations or rupture due to its size and position.
- Spleen Injuries: A ruptured spleen can lead to internal bleeding and is considered a medical emergency.
- Kidney Damage: The kidneys are vulnerable to trauma from rear or side impacts.
- Pancreatic Injuries: Less common but severe, often from steering wheel impacts.
- Hematomas: Caused by blunt force trauma to blood vessels or organs.
- Symptoms include pain, swelling, and signs of shock.
- Perforations or Tears: Can result from compression forces or seatbelt injuries, leading to infection or sepsis.
- Ruptures or Tears: Rare but serious, often occurring from blunt force trauma, causing difficulty in breathing.
- While not part of the abdominal cavity, pelvic fractures can cause secondary injuries to abdominal organs or blood vessels.
- A specific type of injury caused by seatbelts, including bruising, abdominal wall tears, and damage to underlying organs or the spine.
Proper medical evaluation after a car accident is crucial, even if injuries are not immediately apparent. Many abdominal injuries can worsen over time and may require emergency intervention.
Hip & Pelvis
- Types of fractures:
- Acetabular fractures (fracture of the socket part of the hip joint)
- Femoral head or neck fractures (upper part of the thigh bone)
- Common in high-impact accidents, particularly in older individuals with weaker bones.
- Often requires surgical intervention and prolonged rehabilitation.
- Occurs when the femoral head is forced out of its socket in the pelvis.
- Typically caused by direct impact during a crash.
- This is a medical emergency as it can lead to nerve damage and loss of blood flow to the femoral head.
- Damage to the ring of cartilage (labrum) surrounding the hip joint socket.
- Can result from the twisting or abrupt force during the impact of an accident.
- Symptoms include pain, instability, and a clicking sensation in the hip.
- Muscle Strains: Caused by overstretching or tearing of the hip muscles, such as the hip flexors.
- Ligament Sprains: Damage to the ligaments supporting the hip joint due to sudden trauma.
- These injuries can lead to stiffness, swelling, and limited mobility.
- Inflammation of the bursae (small fluid-filled sacs cushioning the hip joint).
- Can be triggered by the impact and pressure experienced during a crash.
- Causes pain and tenderness, especially when moving the hip.
- Structural damage to the bones in the hip joint due to abnormal impact.
- Can occur after a collision and lead to long-term joint problems.
- The impact from an accident can compress or stretch the sciatic nerve near the hip joint.
- Leads to pain, numbness, or weakness radiating down the leg.
- Fractures or damage to the pelvic bones surrounding the hip joint.
- These injuries often occur in severe accidents and may require surgical repair.
Accidents can cause a wide range of hip injuries due to the force and impact experienced during a collision. Seek medical treatment if you show signs of hip pain, swelling, bruising, limited range of motion, numbness, tingling, weakness in the legs, difficulty walking or bearing weight.
Upper Leg
- The femur (thigh bone) is the longest and strongest bone in the body, but it can break under significant force.
- High-speed collisions often cause these fractures, which may require surgery and a long recovery period.
- Muscle Strains or Tears: The impact of a crash can overstretch or tear muscles in the thigh, such as the quadriceps or hamstrings.
- Contusions (Bruises): Blunt force from hitting the dashboard or door can cause painful bruising.
- Thigh Contusions: Hard contact with car interiors can lead to deep tissue bruising.
- Traumatic injuries can damage nerves in the upper leg, such as the femoral or sciatic nerve, leading to pain, numbness, or weakness.
- A rare but serious condition where swelling in the thigh’s muscle compartments increases pressure, cutting off blood flow and potentially causing permanent damage if not treated promptly.
- High-impact forces can strain or tear ligaments or tendons attached to the femur, particularly around the knee and hip areas.
- If the leg is trapped or compressed during an accident, it may result in severe damage to the muscle, bones, and blood vessels.
Treatment for these injuries often involves a combination of immobilization, physical therapy, medication, and sometimes surgical intervention. Early diagnosis and medical attention are critical for recovery.
Knee
- Cause: When the knee forcefully strikes the dashboard during a collision, it can injure the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL).
- Symptoms: Swelling, pain, and instability in the knee.
- Cause: Twisting motions or direct impact during the accident can tear the meniscus, the cartilage that cushions the knee joint.
- Symptoms: Pain, stiffness, swelling, and difficulty straightening the knee.
- Cause: Sudden twisting or hyperextension of the knee during impact can result in an ACL tear.
- Symptoms: A “popping” sound at the time of injury, pain, swelling, and instability.
- Patella (Kneecap) Fractures: Direct impact can fracture the kneecap.
- Symptoms: Severe pain, inability to straighten the knee, and visible deformities.
- Cause: Extreme force can dislocate the knee joint, moving the bones out of alignment.
- Symptoms: Visible deformity, intense pain, and restricted movement.
- Cause: Sudden stress or direct trauma can damage the tendons that support the knee.
- Symptoms: Pain, swelling, and difficulty extending the leg.
- Cause: Impact forces can compress the bones of the knee, causing deep bruising.
- Symptoms: Swelling, stiffness, and pain, especially during movement.
- Cause: Inflammation of the bursa (fluid-filled sacs) in the knee due to trauma or pressure during the accident.
- Symptoms: Swelling, tenderness, and reduced range of motion.
- Cause: Overstretching of the knee ligaments during sudden stops or impacts.
- Symptoms: Pain, swelling, and limited mobility.
- Cause: Damage to the cartilage under the kneecap due to impact or repetitive stress.
- Symptoms: Pain when bending the knee, climbing stairs, or sitting for extended periods.
Knee injuries are a common outcome of car accidents, as the knees are often in a vulnerable position during a collision. Seek medical attenction if you belive you have suffered a knee injury.
Lower Leg
- Tibial Shaft Fractures: The tibia (shinbone) is the larger and stronger bone in the lower leg and is commonly fractured during car accidents due to direct impact or crushing forces.
- Fibular Fractures: The fibula, the thinner bone running alongside the tibia, may fracture either independently or in conjunction with a tibial fracture.
- Compound (Open) Fractures: Occur when the bone pierces the skin, often leading to additional complications like infection.
- Bruising and Contusions: Caused by the leg striking the dashboard or other hard surfaces.
- Muscle Tears: Sudden force can cause tears in the calf muscles or surrounding tissues.
- Lacerations: Sharp debris or impact may cause cuts that can lead to scarring or nerve damage.
- Sprains and Strains: Result from sudden twisting or hyperextension of the ankle or knee.
- Achilles Tendon Ruptures: A severe injury often caused by extreme force during a collision.
- A serious condition where swelling or bleeding in the leg creates pressure, reducing blood flow and potentially causing permanent damage to muscles and nerves.
- Occur when the lower leg is pinned or compressed, potentially damaging muscles, nerves, and blood vessels.
- Peroneal Nerve Injury: May cause weakness or numbness in the foot.
- Vascular Injuries: Damage to the blood vessels in the lower leg can lead to circulation issues or even amputation in severe cases.
- While more common in sports, the repetitive stress of bracing for impact in an accident can exacerbate shin splints or cause stress fractures.
If someone is injured in a car accident, they should seek immediate medical evaluation, as some neck injuries may not show symptoms right away but can worsen over time.
Ankle
- A break in one or more of the bones forming the ankle joint, including the tibia, fibula, or talus.
- Symptoms: Severe pain, swelling, inability to bear weight, visible deformity in severe cases.
- Stretching or tearing of the ligaments in the ankle, particularly the lateral ligaments.
- Symptoms: Swelling, bruising, pain during movement, instability.
- Partial or complete tear of the Achilles tendon due to sudden impact or overextension.
- Symptoms: Sharp pain at the back of the ankle, difficulty walking, or inability to push off the ground.
- The bones in the ankle joint are forced out of their normal alignment, often accompanying fractures.
- Symptoms: Severe pain, deformity, swelling, and inability to move the ankle.
- Occurs when the ankle is subjected to significant compressive force, such as being pinned in the car’s footwell.
- Symptoms: Severe pain, swelling, bruising, and potential nerve or blood vessel damage.
- Inflammation of the tendons in the ankle, such as the posterior tibial or peroneal tendons, often due to overstress.
- Symptoms: Pain, swelling, and stiffness around the ankle.
- Damage to the muscles, ligaments, or tendons surrounding the ankle joint without bone involvement.
- Symptoms: Pain, swelling, and reduced mobility.
- Rare but serious condition caused by increased pressure within the muscles of the lower leg, leading to reduced blood flow and nerve damage.
- Symptoms: Severe pain, numbness, and tightness in the lower leg or ankle.
- Blunt force trauma causing localized bleeding under the skin or deeper tissues.
- Symptoms: Discoloration, tenderness, and mild swelling.
If someone has injured their ankle in a car accident, they should seek immediate medical evaluation.
Foot
- Calcaneus (heel bone) fractures: These occur due to a high-impact collision, often when the foot is braced against the floorboard.
- Tarsal and metatarsal fractures: These small bones in the midfoot and forefoot can break under extreme force.
- Ankle fractures: These happen when the joint twists or endures direct trauma.
- Ligaments in the foot or ankle can become stretched or torn due to sudden, unnatural movements during the crash.
- These occur when the foot is trapped between parts of the vehicle or under heavy debris, potentially leading to tissue damage or amputation in severe cases.
- The bones in the foot or ankle may shift out of their normal positions, causing extreme pain and mobility issues.
- Injuries to muscles, tendons, and ligaments can result in significant pain, swelling, and difficulty walking.
- Plantar fascia tears are common and may cause chronic pain if untreated.
- These involve damage to the midfoot joints or ligaments and often occur when the foot is hyperextended or crushed.
- In severe cases, high-impact trauma or crushing can necessitate surgical amputation of part or all of the foot.
- Increased pressure in the foot’s muscles due to swelling or bleeding can cut off circulation, requiring emergency surgery to relieve the pressure.
- Nerves in the foot may be pinched, stretched, or severed, leading to numbness, tingling, or loss of function.
These injuries often require immediate medical attention and, in severe cases, long-term rehabilitation or surgery to regain functionality. Addressing foot injuries promptly is critical to preventing complications such as chronic pain or permanent disability.
Prompt medical treatment and proper documentation are crucial for both health and any potential legal claims.
What To Do After An Auto Accident
Step-by-Step Guide to Protecting Your Rights and Ensuring Your Safety
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Ensure Safety First
- Move to a safe location, away from traffic or hazards.
- Call 911 to report the accident, even if it seems minor, to obtain an official police report.
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Check for Injuries
- Assess yourself and others for injuries.
- Provide first aid if trained, but avoid moving seriously injured individuals unless there is immediate danger.
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Exchange Information
- Gather and exchange names, contact details, and insurance information with the other driver(s).
- Obtain the names and contact information of any witnesses.
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Document the Scene
- Take photos or videos of vehicle damage, road conditions, traffic signs, skid marks, and other relevant details.
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Seek Medical Attention
- Even if you feel fine, get checked by a medical professional to identify potential hidden injuries.
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Report the Accident
- Notify your insurance company promptly but avoid providing a recorded statement without consulting an attorney.
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Keep Detailed Records
- Save all receipts and records of expenses related to the accident, such as medical bills, vehicle repairs, and rental car costs.
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Understand Alabama's Legal System
- Be aware of Alabama’s contributory negligence law, which could impact your ability to recover compensation if you are partially at fault.
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Consult an Attorney
- Seek legal guidance to protect your rights, navigate the claims process, and ensure fair compensation.
Call Us At: (256) 242-5384
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Answers to Common Questions About What to Do, Who’s Liable, and How to Protect Your Rights
Most car wreck lawyers ask for a fee only if they win your case. Their cut is typically between 30 to 40 percent. This way, folks with tight budgets can still get legal help.
In Alabama, if you’re 21 or older, the law says your blood alcohol content, or BAC, must stay below 0.08%. For folks driving a commercial vehicle, it’s even lower at 0.04%. Sticking to these numbers helps keep our roads safe.
You need to tell the police about a drunk driving accident. It’s for your own legal safety and to have an official record. This record is helpful for insurance claims and may be needed for legal actions.
You can ask for money to cover your doctor bills and missed work, along with something for your stress and pain. If the other driver was real bad, you might even get extra to punish them.
Sure thing. If a bar or restaurant keeps serving drinks to someone clearly drunk, and that person then causes an accident, the business could be held responsible under our state’s dram shop laws.
Yes. Even if you feel fine, injuries like whiplash, concussions, or internal injuries may not show symptoms immediately. Seeking medical attention promptly can protect your health and strengthen your case.
- Don’t admit fault or speculate about what caused the accident.
- Avoid giving a recorded statement to insurance companies without consulting an attorney.
- Stick to factual details when discussing the accident with others.
Yes. Calling the police ensures there is an official accident report, which can be critical for insurance claims and legal proceedings.
- Call 911 immediately to report the hit-and-run.
- Provide as much information as possible about the fleeing driver and vehicle.
- Document the scene with photos and speak with any witnesses.
- Contact an attorney to explore options for recovering compensation.
Filing a lawsuit is often necessary to ensure you receive proper compensation for your losses. This is not about being confrontational‚Äîit’s about protecting your financial stability and holding the responsible party accountable.
As far as your case is concerned absolutely nothing. Remember, you don’t owe us anything unless we win your case.
Your initial consultation with McCutcheon & Hamner is completely free. We’ll discuss your case, answer questions, and explain your legal options at no cost.
To maximize the value of your consultation, bring:
- A copy of the police report
- Photos or videos of the accident scene and vehicle damage
- Medical records and bills related to the accident
- Insurance information for all parties involved
- Any correspondence with insurance companies
Our team conducts a thorough investigation, including:
- Visiting the scene of the accident
- Reviewing police reports and witness statements
- Analyzing photos, videos, and physical evidence from the accident scene
- Consulting with accident reconstruction experts, if necessary
- Collecting medical records and other documents to build a strong case for you
The statute of limitations for car accident claims in Alabama is typically two years from the date of the accident. Missing this deadline could prevent you from recovering compensation. It’s best to consult a personal injury attorney as soon as possible to insure properly documenting the details of your car accident.
Catastrophic injuries, such as traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, amputations, or fatalities, require comprehensive legal representation. We work to ensure victims and their families receive compensation for medical costs, long-term care, lost income, and emotional distress.
Every case is unique. Settling can provide quicker resolution and certainty, while a trial may yield a higher payout but involves risks and delays. Our attorneys will guide you through your options and recommend the best strategy.
Quick Guide
McCutcheon & Hamner's attorneys are among the finest in the United States. Our name alone strikes fear into insurance companies. We love the law, we teach the law, we have written some of Alabama's laws, and we kick ass in court!
Important Facts - Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer
- North Alabama's Drunk Driving Accident Experts
- We have recovered over a billion dollars for our clients
- On average, attorneys recover 6–7 times more than other lawyers
- At our firm, the client ALWAYS makes more than the attorney
- At our law firm, our prices don't increase if your suit goes to trial
- You work directly with a partnered lawyer
- Consultations are always free
- No out-of-pocket cost
- Only pay if you win!