Motorcycle Accident Attorneys Serving Mobile, Dothan & All of Southern Alabama
The Dothan motorcycle accident lawyers at Morris, Andrews, Talmadge & Driggers, LLC are committed to helping injured motorcyclists recover the justice and compensation they deserve after a crash. With more than 130 years of combined legal experience, we have earned a reputation for excellence in communities throughout Alabama. Our experienced motorcycle accident attorneys will work diligently to obtain the best possible outcome in your case.
Morris, Andrews, Talmadge & Driggers, LLC has recovered millions of dollars in verdicts and settlements. There are many defense strategies that can be used by negligent drivers in an attempt to avoid taking responsibility for their actions. Business Alabama magazine recently stated that the lawyers at Morris, Andrews, Talmadge & Driggers, LLC are “some of the state’s most skillful plaintiff attorneys,” and you can rest assured that we will use our expertise to help you get the compensation you deserve.
If you were injured in a motorcycle wreck due to another driver’s reckless or careless actions, contact the Dothan motorcycle accident lawyers at Morris, Andrews, Talmadge & Driggers, LLC today online or at 844-654-6228 to schedule a FREE case evaluation. You may be entitled to compensation for your physical, financial, and emotional losses. We serve clients throughout southern Alabama and the Tri-State Area, including Dothan, Mobile, and other areas. We handle motorcycle accident cases on a contingency-fee basis, which means you don’t pay unless we win.
Do I Need a Motorcycle Accident Attorney?
If you have been involved in a motorcycle accident, at the hands of a reckless or negligent driver, you will have a greater chance of recovering the compensation you seek if you hire a skilled Dothan motorcycle accident lawyer from our firm. Our lawyers are highly-trained negotiators and litigators who are known for aggressively pursuing justice and fair compensation for all types of personal injury cases.
There are many ways that motorcycle accident lawyers help crash victims recover after a serious injury, including:
1. Determine Fault & Liability
Unfortunately, many juries, insurers, and legal professionals have inherent biases against bikers. Motorcycle accident lawyers understand how to confront those biases with facts that prove negligence on the part of negligent or reckless drivers. The attorneys at Morris, Andrews, Talmadge & Driggers, LLC determine what really caused the accident and utilize evidence to recover compensation for our clients.
When determining fault and liability, a motorcycle accident attorney will:
- Conduct a thorough investigation
- Gather witness testimonies
- Analyze police reports
- Hire Accident Reconstruction Experts
2. Deal with Insurance Companies
Insurance companies are in the business of making profits, not paying out claims. They retain vast legal teams and employ an arsenal of tactics to delay, devalue, and deny accident claims. Our experienced motorcycle accident lawyers know the tactics used by insurance companies, and we act as your shield, handling aggressive adjusters who do not have your best interests at heart. We take the stress off your shoulders, manage communications, and allow you to focus on healing instead of malicious calls and complicated paperwork.
When dealing with insurance companies, a motorcycle accident attorney will:
- Pursue the full and fair compensation to which you are entitled
- Negotiate with insurance adjusters
- Handle low-ball settlement offers
3. Navigate the Legal Process
If a fair settlement cannot be negotiated with the insurance company, your attorney may recommend taking legal action. Navigating the legal process can be a complex and time-consuming effort. It is in your best interest to have a knowledgeable motorcycle accident attorney on your side who is familiar with the intricacies of the legal process.
When navigating the legal process, a motorcycle accident lawyer will:
- Ensure all necessary paperwork is filed correctly and on time.
- Prepare for trial by organizing evidence, identifying witnesses, and developing strategies
- Present your case before a judge or jury
Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries
According to the most recent data from the Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT), Alabama saw 1,189 motorcycle accident injuries and 95 motorcycle accident deaths in 2022. and Motorcyclists face countless dangers every day while attempting to navigate our city streets and highways alongside cars, trucks, tractor-trailers and other high-profile vehicles. While drivers of cars and trucks have safety features like seat belts and airbags to protect them in the event of an accident, motorcyclists are only protected by their helmets and the clothes on their backs.
Motorcycle accidents are capable of causing severe and catastrophic injuries. The impact from the crash alone is enough to cause massive damage and long-lasting injuries. In many instances, when a motorcyclist is involved in an accident, he or she will be thrown off the motorcycle. Secondary impact points such as the road, another vehicle, a tree or any other object often cause serious, life-altering injuries. Common motorcycle accident injuries include:
- Brain injuries
- Neck and back injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Whiplash
- Broken bones
- Fractures
- Internal bleeding
- Cuts
- Scrapes (road rash)
- Bruises
In some tragic cases, motorcycle accidents are fatal. If you lost a loved one in a motorcycle crash, you may be able to pursue compensation for medical bills, funeral expenses, and other losses in a wrongful death lawsuit. While no amount of money can make up for your unfathomable loss, compensation from a wrongful death claim can help your family avoid undue financial hardships during this difficult time.
Recovering from your injuries after a motorcycle accident will take time and money. We do not believe you, as the victim of a motorcycle accident, should have to bear the financial burden associated with your accident-related injuries. You have had to suffer enough already. We are here to fight on your behalf. To give you the hard-hitting representation you need after such a painful and traumatic experience. Not all personal injury cases are simple and easy to resolve. Defending the rights of a motorcycle accident victim can be a complex legal matter.
Is Lane Splitting Legal in Alabama?
No, lane splitting is not legal in Alabama (see Ala. Code § 32-5A-242). The main reason is because Alabama laws consider a motorcycle entitled to the full use of a lane just like other vehicles. Lane splitting can make other drivers nervous and it puts the motorcyclist in a dangerous position.
Frequently Asked Questions About Motorcycle Accident Claims
What Should I Do Immediately After a Motorcycle Crash?
Your safety always comes first. We know that things can be confusing and overwhelming after suffering an injury in a motorcycle accident. There are some important steps that you can take to help make sure your rights are protected, but only do what you can. Leave the rest to us.
After a motorcycle accident:
- Call 911: Even if your injuries seem minor, get medical help and make sure law enforcement documents the scene.
- Document Everything: If you can, take photos of the vehicles, roadway, injuries, and anything else that could show how the crash happened.
- Exchange Information: Get the names, contact info, and insurance details of everyone involved.
- DO NOT Admit Fault: Even a simple apology could be used against you later.
- Get Checked Out: Some injuries can take hours or days to show symptoms, even if you initially feel okay. Getting medical care after the crash protects your health and creates a medical record that links your injuries directly to the accident.
- Talk to a Lawyer Before Giving a Statement to the Insurance Company: Insurers are trained to limit payouts. They might try to twist your words or pressure you into accepting a low offer. When you talk to our Dothan motorcycle accident lawyers first, we can make sure you don’t say anything that could hurt your case. And the consultation is completely FREE.
How Is a Motorcycle Accident Claim Different From a Car Accident Claim?
Motorcycle accident claims are often more devastating and more complex than car accident claims. Here’s why:
- Bias: Motorcyclists are often blamed for accidents, even when another driver was clearly at fault.
- Injuries: Motorcycle riders tend to suffer more severe injuries or fatalities due to the lack of protection.
- Insurance Coverage: Policies for motorcycles are often different and may have lower limits.
- Evidence Gathering: It’s often harder to prove what caused a motorcycle crash. Bikes don’t leave as much visible damage or skid marks, and the at-fault driver may not even make contact with the motorcycle.
Our motorcycle injury attorneys in Dothan have extensive experience handling some of the toughest claims. With skill and care, we’ll build a strong case focused on what you and your family need to move forward.
Who Is Usually At Fault in a Motorcycle Accident?
It’s true that 67% of all fatal motorcycle crashes in Alabama are caused by the motorcyclist. But that also means a significant number of both fatal and non-fatal accidents are not. And a statistic can’t tell the full story of what happened in your case.
According to the NHTSA, in 2023, 46% of fatal motorcycle crashes involving another vehicle occurred when a car turned left in front of the motorcycle. Many of these crashes happened because the other driver failed to notice the rider or made a careless move that left the motorcyclist with little time to react.
Common causes of motorcycle crashes where the other driver is at fault include:
- Left turns in front of a motorcycle
- Sudden lane changes without checking blind spots
- Rear-end collisions at stoplights
- Distracted or impaired driving
Don’t assume you’re at fault before you’ve spoken with a seasoned motorcycle accident law firm. Reach out today to schedule your 100% FREE case evaluation.
What if I Was Partially At Fault for the Motorcycle Accident?
Alabama follows a pure contributory negligence rule, which is one of the toughest in the country. If you’re found to be even 1% at fault for an accident, you may be barred from recovering any compensation at all.
Insurance companies know this rule and will look for any excuse to pin partial blame on you so they don’t have to pay. That’s one of the many reasons it’s critical to have a knowledgeable motorcycle injury lawyer on your side. At Morris, Andrews, Talmadge & Driggers, LLC, we gather the facts, challenge weak assumptions, and fight hard to protect your right to recover fair and just compensation.
How Serious Are Motorcycle Accidents?
Very serious. In fact, motorcyclists are 28 times more likely to die in a crash than passenger vehicle occupants, according to the NHTSA. Even non-fatal crashes often lead to:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Spinal cord damage
- Broken bones
- Road rash & scarring
- Amputations
In 2023, ALDOT reported 1,805 motorcycle-involved crashes in Alabama. Many of these involved catastrophic injuries. If you’re facing a long recovery or permanent disability, we can help you pursue the full compensation you need to move forward.
Can I Sue if a Family Member Died in a Motorcycle Crash?
Yes. If your loved one was killed in a motorcycle crash caused by someone else’s negligence, Alabama law gives you the right to pursue a wrongful death claim.
Obviously, no amount of money can ever make up for the tragic and sudden loss you’ve suffered. But holding the at-fault party accountable could bring some sense of justice and help protect other families from going through the same terrible pain. In Alabama, wrongful death claims are meant to punish wrongdoing and send a clear message that this kind of negligence won’t be tolerated.
At Morris, Andrews, Talmadge & Driggers, LLC, we approach these cases with the utmost respect and compassion. We’re committed to doing what’s right for you and your family while you process and heal. If you’re ready to take that next step, we’ll be here to guide you through.
Do I Still Have a Case if I Wasn’t Wearing a Helmet?
Possibly. Alabama law requires all riders to wear a helmet. Though not wearing one will surely complicate your claim due to Alabama’s pure contributory negligence rule, it doesn’t automatically bar you from filing a claim. The key question is whether the helmet would have prevented or reduced your injuries.
For example, if you suffered a broken leg, the lack of a helmet wouldn’t have made a difference. But if your injuries involved head trauma, the defense may argue your damages were avoidable. That’s why it’s important to have a legal team that can utilize their knowledge of the law to your advantage.
What Is Lane Splitting?
Lane splitting is when a motorcyclist rides between lanes of traffic, typically between slow-moving or stopped vehicles. While it’s legal in some states, lane splitting is illegal in Alabama.
If you were lane splitting at the time of your crash, it could impact your ability to recover compensation under Alabama’s strict pure contributory negligence rule. However, every case is different. If another driver was acting recklessly or intentionally caused the crash, you may still have a claim worth pursuing.
The best way to find out whether you have a viable claim for compensation is to let us evaluate the details of your case. Contact our motorcycle attorneys today to set up a FREE, no-obligation consultation so we can help you understand your options.
What Is the Statute of Limitation for Filing a Motorcycle Accident Claim in Alabama?
In Alabama, the statute of limitations for filing a motorcycle accident claim is generally two years from the date of the accident (see Alabama Code § 6-2-38). This means you have two years from the date of the motorcycle accident to file a lawsuit seeking compensation for the injuries and damages that resulted from the accident.
However, there are certain exceptions and specific circumstances that could affect this time limit. For instance, if the claim involves a government entity, different rules, and shorter time limits may apply. It’s advisable to consult with an attorney to understand how the statute of limitations applies to your specific case.
How Much Is My Case Worth?
The value of your motorcycle accident case can vary widely based on several factors. Some key considerations that influence the worth of a case include:
- Severity of Injuries: The more severe and long-lasting the injuries, the higher the potential compensation. This includes medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, and long-term care needs.
- Medical Expenses: All past, present, and future medical costs related to the accident are considered. This includes hospital bills, surgeries, medications, physical therapy, and any necessary medical equipment.
- Lost Wages and Earning Capacity: Compensation for income lost due to the accident, as well as any reduction in future earning capacity if the injuries result in long-term or permanent disability.
- Pain and Suffering: This includes compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.
- Property Damage: The cost of repairing or replacing the motorcycle and any other personal property damaged in the accident.
- Fault and Negligence: Alabama follows a contributory negligence rule, which means that if the injured party is found to be even partially at fault for the accident, they may be barred from recovering any damages.
- Insurance Coverage: The amount of insurance coverage available from both the at-fault party and the injured party can impact the total compensation.
- Punitive Damages: In cases where the at-fault party’s conduct was particularly reckless or egregious, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar behavior.
The best way to get a clear picture of how much your case is worth is to speak with the experienced motorcycle accident lawyers at Morris, Andrews, Talmadge & Driggers, LLC. We will examine the facts in your case and work to understand how the injury has impacted your life.
Talk to a Dothan Motorcycle Accident Lawyer for FREE
To recover the compensation you are rightfully owed, it will first be necessary to prove that the accident was not your fault. When this type of accident occurs it is usually the motorcyclist who is the first to be blamed. Insurance companies and negligent drivers do not want to be found liable, so they will be quick to try and prove that you were at fault. If that happens in your case, we will not back down and we will not be quick to settle. We get to the truth.
Our skilled Alabama motorcycle accident lawyer will conduct a thorough investigation to gather the evidence necessary to prove liability and help you hold the negligent party liable for his or her actions.
Contact the Dothan motorcycle accident lawyers at Morris, Andrews, Talmadge & Driggers, LLC now online or at 844-654-6228 to schedule a FREE case evaluation. We welcome clients from across southern Alabama and the Tri-State Area, including Dothan, Mobile, and other nearby areas.
