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The Role of Surveillance in Personal Injury Cases 

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When you file a personal injury case, the defendant’s insurance company may go to great lengths to discount your claim. Many people are surprised to learn that surveillance may be  a common tactic used by insurance companies in personal injury cases to dispute injuries or disprove claims. But what lengths are insurers permitted to go to for evidence collection, and what can you do in the face of such tactics?

Learn more about the role of surveillance in personal injury cases. Then, consult a personal injury lawyer in Mobile, AL, for guidance on your next steps. 

What Level of Surveillance Is Lawful in Alabama? 

Surveillance in personal injury cases may feel like a significant invasion of your privacy, and you may wonder how this practice is legal. In Alabama, surveillance is only legal in personal injury cases when it adheres to strict guidelines.

Insurance companies can only film or record you in public spaces. However, there is a wide range of “public spaces” in which an insurance company might attempt to watch you. The insurance company, or, more specifically, the private investigators hired by the insurance company, might:

  • Film you from a public vantage point outside your home
  • Record your activities outside, such as in a park, outside a store, walking around your neighborhood, etc. 
  • Film you near public-facing businesses, such as a grocery store or gym 

It is also lawful for the insurance company to monitor your public online activity, such as your social media posts, photos, check-ins, and comments. In some cases, they may be able to access your private activity through subpoenas or even by requesting screenshots from people who are your friends on these platforms. 

However, there are many surveillance activities that would be unlawful for an insurance company to engage in, such as:

  • Violating wiretapping laws to gain audio from you
  • Trespassing on your property to surveil you
  • Installing tracking devices on your vehicle or belongings
  • Hacking your online accounts

You shouldn’t need to worry about an insurance company using these tactics during your claims process or the discovery phase of a lawsuit. Understanding what types of surveillance are and are not legal can help you feel more comfortable with the idea of being surveilled. 

What Are Insurance Companies Looking for When They Surveil You? 

Why do insurance companies use surveillance in personal injury cases? You may feel this is unreasonable because it’s not like you committed a crime. Additionally, you may feel the insurance company’s client is the one who is responsible for the accident and that you did nothing wrong. 

The main reason an insurance company would use surveillance in your case is to attempt to disprove any of your claims, weakening the case. If they can prove that you were dishonest about even one element of your case, they can place doubt in the judge’s or jury’s minds. Alternatively, if your case is still in the claims phase, they can use this evidence to deny the claim. 

Here are a few examples of how insurance surveillance is used:

  • You have claimed that your doctor ordered you not to lift more than 10 pounds during your injury recovery, but the investigator sees you lifting heavy weights at the gym. 
  • You stated that you seriously injured your back in the accident, but the investigator sees you effortlessly lifting boxes at work.
  • You have claimed that the injuries have prevented you from living your normal life, but the investigator finds images of you dancing at a party on social media. 

In each of these examples, the insurer might use the evidence collected to suggest that you were lying about your injuries or that they are not as severe as you claim. This evidence alone may not be enough to disprove your claim, but it could be combined with other evidence that weakens the case overall. 

What Should You Do if the Insurance Company Is Surveilling You? 

Knowing that the insurance company involved in your case may be surveilling you can be concerning. Your personal injury attorney can help you understand your options and how to proceed. 

First, it might help you to know your rights surrounding surveillance. You generally have the right to discover details about the surveillance, though it may not be until after deposition, depending on court rules. You should also understand the types of surveillance the insurance company can lawfully conduct, and know that when you are in a private setting, surveillance would be unlawful. 

You can generally act normally even if you know you are being surveilled. If you have a strong case, you shouldn’t need to worry about the insurer finding evidence against you. But you may want to at least be aware of how certain actions or social media posts could come across to the insurance company.

Finally, you may want to contact an attorney to learn more about your rights and options. A personal injury attorney can help you with proving fault in your personal injury claim and understanding the insurance company’s rights, along with the legal implications of their finding evidence that weakens your claim. 

Contact Jackson & Foster Law Today for a Legal Consultation 

Surveillance in personal injury cases is just one of the many aspects of your legal claim that may feel unfamiliar. With an experienced attorney on your side, you can feel more comfortable and confident navigating your case while understanding the mistakes to avoid that could compromise your claim. 

Jackson & Foster Law represents clients across the Mobile, AL, area through personal injury cases and insurance litigation. We offer affordable representation backed by nearly 40 years of experience.  

Contact us today at 251-433-6699 to request your free legal consultation. 

Does Wrongful Death Count as a Personal Injury?

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When your loved one was injured in a medical malpractice event, car accident, or similar type of incident, you may have originally considered pursuing a personal injury case. But now they have passed away, and you are wondering about your legal rights and options. 

You may have the right to pursue a wrongful death case on their behalf. Is wrongful death a personal injury, or are these two distinct types of legal cases? 

A personal injury lawyer in Mobile, AL, can provide a more personalized answer to this question based on the specific circumstances of your loved one’s death. While wrongful death and personal injury are similar concepts, they have some distinctions that you should be aware of. 

Wrongful Death and Personal Injury Have Similar Criteria

Wrongful death is a type of civil lawsuit filed by the estate representative (personal representative) of a person who died due to another party’s negligence, recklessness, or intentional act. Personal injury lawsuits are legal claims that arise when a person is injured due to another’s negligence, recklessness, or intentional act. As you can see, these two concepts have overlapping definitions. 

Wrongful death is similar to personal injury, but Alabama treats wrongful death as a distinct cause of action, not a personal injury claim. However, a rule of thumb for determining whether you may have a wrongful death case is assessing whether your loved one would have had a personal injury case had they survived the accident. Though this is a general way of looking at these situations, and each case should be evaluated on its own facts. Both types of claims may involve meeting the following criteria:

  • The defendant owed the plaintiff (or deceased person) a duty of care
  • The defendant breached the duty of care
  • The breach of duty of care caused an injury that led to damages 

Both of these cases can also arise from the same types of incidents, such as:

  • Car accidents
  • Pedestrian accidents
  • Medical malpractice
  • Product liability incidents
  • Slip-and-fall accidents

How Wrongful Death Differs From Traditional Personal Injury Cases

Wrongful death and personal injury claims both involve seeking compensation from a person or entity who is responsible for another person’s injuries and damages. They are both types of civil legal action that can escalate to court, if necessary, to reach a settlement or determination. 

Is wrongful death a personal injury? There are a few notable distinctions between these two claims:

  • Statute of limitations: The statute of limitations for a personal injury claim in Alabama is generally two years from the date of injury; for a wrongful death claim, it is generally two years from the date of death. Exceptions exist for both types of cases. 
  • Plaintiff: The plaintiff, or person pursuing a claim, in a personal injury case generally is the injured person. The plaintiff in a wrongful death case generally is a representative of the injured. In Alabama, in many cases, only the personal representative of the deceased person’s estate can file a wrongful death case, though the family members are often the ones who benefit. 
  • Damages: Personal injury damages seek to compensate the injured person for the losses they experienced from the injury, with a goal of making them “whole” again. They can include both economic and non-economic damages. In Alabama, the purpose of many wrongful death cases is to punish the liable party and set a precedent for others. Only punitive damages are available in many of these cases. 

What Happens if a Person Initiated a Personal Injury Claim Before They Died? 

In some cases, a person who was injured in an accident due to another person’s negligence passes away before they can see the outcome of their personal injury claim. Personal injury claims that have already been filed generally survive the death of the plaintiff; the plaintiff’s successor, such as their personal representative, can usually take over the claim and seek compensation on their behalf. 

If the plaintiff died due to their injuries from the accident they were initially seeking compensation for, the family might be eligible to pursue a separate wrongful death claim to seek punitive damages. Speak with a personal injury attorney about your rights and options in this scenario. 

Civil vs. Criminal Cases for Wrongful Death 

Wrongful death cases can sometimes involve criminal actions.. For example, manslaughter and murder can result in criminal charges, and the personal representative of the victim may also be able to pursue a wrongful death case. 

In some cases, the surviving family members must navigate both a criminal trial and a civil lawsuit at the same time. While the state is responsible for trying criminal cases, the family may still be involved as witnesses or want to attend the trial. An experienced wrongful death attorney can help the family seek wrongful death damages and navigate the civil litigation process during this overwhelming time. 

The Burden of Proof for Personal Injury and Wrongful Death Cases in Alabama

For both personal injury and wrongful death cases in Alabama, the plaintiff must prove through a “preponderance of evidence” that the defendant’s wrongdoing caused the injury or death. This means that the plaintiff must show that it is more likely than not, with over 50% probability, that the defendant’s actions caused the damages. 

This burden of proof is distinct from criminal cases involving death. For example, in Alabama homicide cases, the prosecution must prove guilt “beyond a reasonable doubt.” This means that in some cases, a defendant may be found not guilty for criminal acts involving death yet still be held liable for the decedent’s death through a civil claim. A wrongful death attorney can help you understand this legal distinction and whether you may have a viable civil case. 

Seek Legal Assistance With Wrongful Death Claims in Alabama 

Is wrongful death a personal injury? These two types of cases have many similarities and a few important distinctions. If your loved one passed away due to another person’s negligence or intentional act, an attorney can help you understand your rights and options. 

At Jackson & Foster Law, we represent clients through personal injury lawsuits, wrongful death claims, and related civil matters. For affordable legal services, request a free consultation today by calling 251-433-6699.

Myths About Personal Injury Claims in Mobile, AL

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When you get hurt, you may hear a lot of conflicting advice, between social media, TV shows, and “a friend who once had a claim.” Unless you consult with a Mobile personal injury claim attorney who understands the law and the claim process, it’s easy to get confused.

People often come to us with misconceptions, so it’s essential to clarify some of the most common personal injury myths.

Myth #1: The Outcome Will Be the Same Whether or Not You Have an Attorney 

It might seem simple: file a claim, get a check, move on. But personal injury claims are rarely that straightforward. Without experienced guidance, you may end up accepting a settlement that doesn’t fully reflect the extent of your losses.

A personal injury lawyer who understands how to gather evidence and negotiate effectively can help you protect your interests.

Myth #2: Hiring a Lawyer Is Expensive

Assumptions about the cost of hiring an attorney deter many people from seeking help with their claims. 

However, most personal injury attorneys don’t require clients to pay anything up front. They work on a contingency basis, and only get paid a pre-determined percentage of the settlement amount if they recover money for you. In most cases, if no compensation is recovered, clients typically do not owe attorney fees.

Myth #3: Every Personal Injury Case Goes to Court

The majority of personal injury claims settle out of court through negotiation or mediation. Trials are generally the last resort when both parties are unable to reach an agreement.

Attorneys typically seek an injury settlement first, as going to trial can take months (or years). Reaching an agreement early often benefits everyone involved. That said, your lawyer should be prepared to go to court and argue on your behalf.

Myth #4: Minor Injuries Aren’t Worth a Claim

Even injuries that seem minor at first can develop into major problems over time, disrupting your life and ability to work. A slight back strain, whiplash, or concussion may not seem serious at first. Still, lasting pain or complications can result in significant expenses, financial losses, and time away from work, diminishing your quality of life.

Negligence law is designed to provide a legal remedy in these situations. If someone else’s carelessness caused your injury, you may have the right to pursue legal compensation, depending on the circumstances of your injury.

Myth #5: The Insurance Company Will Always Treat You Fairly

Many people assume that insurance companies will act in their best interests, but this is one of the biggest (and most detrimental) personal injury myths.

Insurance companies aim to generate revenue and maximize profits, just like any other business. 

In practice, this can mean that they might downplay your injuries, question your medical treatment, or even suggest the accident was partly your fault to reduce their liability. The result can be a denied claim or a settlement offer that isn’t equal to your losses.

Personal injury lawyers understand accident liability and Alabama law and can deal with the insurance company to help ensure that the process is handled appropriately. 

Myth #6: You Can File a Claim Anytime

This personal injury myth often catches people off guard. Alabama law typically allows two years from the date of the accident to file personal injury claims. Missing that deadline could mean losing your right to recover compensation entirely.

There are exceptions, but they’re rare. In any case, if you believe you have a case, it may be important to make the claim as soon as possible. Evidence fades, witnesses move away, and memories blur, so acting quickly can help preserve evidence and strengthen your position.

That said, you don’t need to sue immediately. Many claims begin with a demand letter or negotiation phase before a lawsuit is filed. However, it’s worth consulting with an attorney early on to understand your rights and begin building your case. This way, if the insurance company denies the claim or makes a lowball offer, you are ready to go to court if necessary.

Myth #7: You’ll Receive a Substantial Financial Recovery Just Because You Were Hurt

Some personal injury cases result in six- or seven-figure settlements, but not every claim leads to a large payout. The amount of legal compensation may depend on various factors including the severity of your injuries, medical costs and lost wages.

Why You Need To Know the Truth About These Myths 

Believing these personal injury myths can affect your ability to secure a fair settlement after an accident. Not only can misinformation about the process and the potential award amount set up unreasonable expectations, but you might take steps that unintentionally weaken your case. For instance, you might accept a low offer, delay action for too long, or fail to document key evidence, all of which can affect your position and the potential outcome of your case.

At Jackson & Foster Law, we’ve seen how confusion can make an already difficult time even harder. Our goal is to help clients in Mobile, AL, understand their rights and make informed decisions about their cases.

Talk to a Mobile, AL, Personal Injury Lawyer Today

If you’ve been injured in an accident and aren’t sure what to believe, you don’t have to figure it out alone. The team at Jackson & Foster Law can help you cut through the confusion, explain your options, and guide you toward the next steps.

Whether your injuries are due to a car accident, a slip and fall, or you’re dealing with a case of medical negligence, the team will guide you through each stage of the process.

Contact us today at 251-433-6699 to request a confidential consultation about your personal injury claim and learn the truth about common personal injury myths and your rights under Alabama law.

What Is Loss of Consortium?

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Suppose you’re in an accident that leaves you hurt, and you speak to a personal injury lawyer in Mobile, AL, about pursuing compensation. They mention the potential damages available, including a loss of consortium claim. What is loss of consortium, and is it worth exploring in your case?

Learn more below about a victim’s rights and responsibilities in this situation. For personalized guidance, reach out to Jackson & Foster Law. Every case should be evaluated on its own facts. 

Defining Loss of Consortium

Loss of consortium is a legal term referring to the loss of emotional and/or physical companionship, affection, and support due to death or injury. One could claim spousal relationship damages if an accident makes their partner unable to provide the intimacy or deep love they offered before. Damages may be awarded to those who experience the following in the wake of an accident:

  • Loss of sexual relations: If someone is unable to engage in intimate relations due to an accident, loss of consortium damages may be available. 
  • Loss of companionship: Romantic partners may suddenly miss out on opportunities for date nights or other shared moments together due to someone else’s negligence. 
  • Loss of services: Damages may apply if death or injury prevents a spouse from performing various household duties, such as essential chores or childcare. 
  • Loss of support: If the injured or deceased party is the primary provider of a household, this may also impact their partner. 

Some injuries have a long-lasting impact on marital relations. If you find yourself in this situation, it might be time to explore your legal options. Compensatory damages could be available, depending on your unique circumstances. 

Speak to a personal injury lawyer about your circumstances and whether you’re able to seek these damages.

Filing a Loss of Consortium Claim After a Personal Injury or Wrongful Death

What is loss of consortium, and who is able to claim it in a lawsuit? 

Personal Injury Cases

Perhaps someone survives an accident, but their injuries prevent them from maintaining a loving relationship with their spouse. For example, imagine someone experiences a traumatic brain injury and spinal cord damage due to a tractor-trailer crash. The accident leaves them paralyzed and with severe mental deficits, which keeps them from engaging in an intimate, affectionate relationship with their partner. 

In cases like this, the non-injured partner could advocate for spousal relationship damages. These may be in addition to other economic and non-economic damages in a personal injury claim. 

Understanding the Filing Process in Alabama

Now that you have a clearer understanding of what loss of consortium entails, you might wonder who can claim such damages. The answer will vary based on where you live. 

Some states allow a victim’s children, siblings, or other relatives to seek compensation in such cases. Others, including Alabama, may only grant the opportunity to non-injured or surviving spouses. If you wish to file a claim against a negligent party, consult a personal injury lawyer to discuss your case and the potential next steps. 

After learning the answer to “What is loss of consortium?” eligible parties may wonder when they can file a claim. Claims must be filed within Alabama’s statutory deadline, which is typically two years from the date of injury or death. 

Key Criteria That Support Loss of Consortium Claims

To receive damages for emotional companionship loss, claimants have to prove four essential components:

  • Duty of Care: A third party has a responsibility to act in a way that keeps others safe from harm. A duty of care for motorists may be to be aware of others on the road, while healthcare providers may have the duty to care for patients. 
  • Breach of Duty: An individual’s actions, such as driving while intoxicated, can constitute a breach of their duty of care. 
  • Causation: Personal injury and wrongful death claims aim to prove that a party’s breach of duty directly caused the victim’s injuries. 
  • Damages: Ultimately, claimants must clearly outline quantifiable losses. This includes economic and non-economic losses. 

Review Your Options With the Help of Jackson & Foster Law

At Jackson & Foster Law, clients come to us with a wide range of questions, from “What is loss of consortium?” to “How much could I expect in a car accident settlement?” Our team is pleased to offer personalized legal advice and recommend a tailored strategy based on your unique circumstances.

Reach out to us today to learn more about our services. To schedule a consultation, contact our Mobile-based firm at 251-433-6699. 

Can You Sue a Drunk Driver for Hitting You?

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If you sustained injuries in a car accident caused by a drunk driver, consider speaking to a DUI attorney in Mobile, AL. Given the physical and emotional harm that impaired motorists can cause to those involved in a crash, is it possible to sue a drunk driver to seek justice?

Learn about your options as a crash survivor and what to expect if you decide to take legal action. Below, our legal team at Jackson & Foster Law explains what you need to know about civil DUI lawsuits involving personal injuries. 

How Drunk Driving Accidents Impact a Victim’s Physical and Emotional Well-Being

Drunk driving accidents can be fatal and may prompt a victim’s loved ones to file a wrongful death suit. Collisions that don’t end in death may leave motorists, cyclists, or pedestrians with severe injuries, such as:

  • Broken bones
  • Lacerations
  • Whiplash
  • Spinal cord damage
  • Traumatic brain injuries
  • Internal bleeding

Depending on the extent of the injury, victims could end up with a permanent disability or face a lengthy recovery period. The accident could leave them unable to work, creating financial hardships for the household. The aftermath of a serious injury also affects one’s mental state and emotional well-being. 

Accident victims may experience symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder after an accident. In addition to all other potential outcomes, vehicles involved in the crash could face expensive repairs or be totaled. Taking legal action could help victims receive compensation for their injuries and hardships, though outcomes vary. 

Offenders May Face Criminal and Civil Court Proceedings

Motorists who drive while under the influence don’t have to be involved in a crash to face consequences. Police officers can stop drivers they suspect of being impaired, arrest them, and charge them with the crime. The case will proceed to criminal court, where a jury will decide the verdict. This is not the type of matter our firm handles.

In Alabama, DUI penalties for convicted motorists vary based on their history and the severity of the offense. Potential penalties include:

  • License suspension
  • Probation
  • Court-ordered community service or drug and alcohol education programs
  • Mandated use of an ignition interlock device
  • Imprisonment

In addition to criminal proceedings, offenders could become the target of a personal injury claim in civil court. Victims may be able to sue a drunk driver for economic, non-economic, or punitive damages for their role in an accident. 

Consider Filing a Personal Injury Claim Against the Drunk Driver’s Insurance Provider

Did a drunk driving accident leave you with extensive vehicle damage, physical injuries, and mental anguish? These hardships stem from someone else’s negligence on the road. Consider holding them accountable by filing a personal injury claim against their insurance company. 

With the help of an attorney, you can gather evidence supporting your claim and calculate your losses. The insurance company may offer a settlement, but if your lawyer doesn’t believe it fairly represents said losses, they could negotiate with the insurer. 

While many claims are resolved through settlement agreements, if a resolution cannot be reached, litigation may be the next logical step. After you sue a drunk driver, negotiations might continue while both sides prepare to bring the case to trial. 

If these efforts remain unsuccessful, a jury will decide the outcome. Representatives for both sides will present their arguments before jurors reach a verdict. In civil trials, the jury also determines the amount of a financial award, if any. 

Determining Negligence in Car Accident Cases

Personal injury lawyers look for four crucial elements in these cases:

  1. Duty of Care: One party has a responsibility to keep others safe by behaving in a certain way. 
  2. Breach of Duty: An individual may either intentionally or unintentionally breach their duty of care, potentially putting others at risk of harm. 
  3. Causation: When a breach of duty directly causes an accident or injuries, it raises legal concerns. 
  4. Damages: The victim must endure some type of loss, such as a personal injury or property damage. 

Drunk driving cases tend to meet all of these criteria. Motorists have the responsibility to drive in a way that keeps themselves and others safe. Driving while intoxicated breaches their duty of care and can result in injuries to others. 

In order to sue a drunk driver, you’ll need evidence highlighting these elements including the causation and damages. Police reports, witness statements, and dashcam footage from the crash could provide insight into what caused the accident. You can evaluate the total damages by submitting medical bills, vehicle repair estimates, and documentation of lost wages as evidence. 

Can You Sue a Drunk Driver Directly?

When people file personal injury claims or subsequent lawsuits, they’re usually dealing with auto insurers who represent the policyholder. If victims can successfully receive a settlement, the insurance provider often writes the check instead of the negligent party. The lawsuit, however, typically is directly against the adverse driver. 

Consult an Experienced DUI Attorney in Southeast Alabama

You may have legal grounds to pursue compensation for your medical care, pain and suffering, and other damages. Not sure where to start? Contact our team at Jackson & Foster Law. 

We handle these cases with sensitivity and are committed to advocating for the rights of crash victims. From the first time you meet with us to the time your case reaches the negotiation phase and beyond, we aim to guide clients through the legal process with clarity and compassion. Call 251-433-6699 to schedule a free consultation today. 

Do You Need a Lawyer After a Car Accident in Mobile, AL? 

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If you were recently involved in a serious car accident, you might hear one recurring piece of advice: “Hire an attorney.” Working with an experienced car accident lawyer is often a good idea, especially if your case is complex. But not every car accident claim requires an attorney’s assistance. 

If you’re asking, “Do I need a lawyer after a car accident?” this guide can help you know when an attorney might be helpful for your case. If you’re still unsure, request a consultation with a car accident attorney in Mobile, AL, to discuss your claim and learn how they can assist you. 

Signs You Need an Attorney After a Car Accident

Hiring legal representation after a car accident may help you manage a complex legal process with greater clarity. If any of the following are true, you might benefit from hiring an attorney to assist with your personal injury claim. 

The Accident Involved Severe Injuries or Fatalities

Serious car accidents, such as ones involving impaired driving, often lead to life-altering injuries and even fatalities. If your accident left you or a loved one with severe injuries, you’re likely facing a large, complicated claim. You might find it difficult to manage a legal claim while recovering from serious injuries. 

An attorney can provide necessary support, guidance, and representation while you focus on recovering from your injuries. They can counter any aggressive tactics from the insurance company and help you navigate a complex injury claim. 

The Insurance Company Is Not Cooperating

Insurance companies may want to balance paying out your claim with protecting their own financial interests. This means they might not offer to pay out what you believe your claim to be worth. Alternatively, they might reject your claim altogether if you do not have enough evidence in their eyes. 

If the insurance company is being uncooperative, an attorney can help you strengthen your claim and resist their tactics. 

You Are Facing Steep Medical Bills and Expenses

Serious car accidents often lead to steep medical bills and other expenses. While your health insurance might cover some of these medical expenses, you will likely be subject to copays and deductibles. You may be eligible for compensation from the at-fault driver for expenses resulting from the accident. 

However, the insurance company might provide you with a payout offer that does not fully cover your expenses. An experienced attorney can help you present evidence showcasing the value of your claim and negotiate a higher offer. If the insurer still fails to provide a sufficient payout, your attorney can discuss litigation with you and detail your other options. 

There Are Disputes Over Liability 

The insurance company usually makes a fault determination based on the evidence it receives from all parties involved in the accident. This determination details who was responsible for the accident and, thus, who is liable for financial damages. 

Alabama follows a contributory negligence rule, stating that if a plaintiff is found to be even 1% responsible for their own injuries, they may be ineligible for a compensation claim. As such, the insurer’s fault determination plays a critical role in your opportunity to secure compensation after the accident through this insurance claims process before a lawsuit is filed.

Your attorney may help you provide evidence to clarify your role in the accident and challenge any incorrect fault assessments. 

Times When You Might Not Need a Lawyer for a Car Accident Claim 

Do you need a lawyer after a car accident? There are a few instances in which an attorney may not be necessary: 

  • Your accident did not involve injuries: If no one was injured in your accident, your insurance claim may be relatively straightforward, and you may not need an attorney to help you navigate the process.
  • The insurance company is cooperating: If the insurance company has offered you sufficient funds to account for your monetary losses after the accident, you might not need an attorney. However, a car accident lawyer can help you understand what types of compensation may be available to you and avoid accepting an insufficient offer. 
  • The damage was minor: If the damage to your vehicle was relatively minor, you might not need an attorney to assist with settlement negotiations or provide other legal guidance. 

If you are ever unsure whether you need an attorney, consider scheduling a free consultation with one. They can explain more about their services and guide you in the right direction. 

How Can a Car Accident Attorney Assist You? 

If you are wondering whether you need a lawyer after a car accident, understanding the types of assistance an attorney can provide might aid your decision. These are a few of the ways a car accident attorney can assist: 

  • Gather evidence to support your claim: Your attorney can explore several avenues for collecting evidence to help you strengthen your accident claim. 
  • Speak with other parties on your behalf: They can speak with the insurance company, the negligent party, and other parties to help you avoid making a mistake during communications that could negatively affect your case. 
  • Explain complex liability laws: Attorneys understand Alabama’s liability laws, contributory negligence doctrine, and all other relevant statutes and may help you apply these laws to your case. 
  • Avoid mistakes that could compromise your case: With an attorney providing legal advice and guidance, you can avoid mistakes that might negatively impact your car accident case. 
  • Represent you in court: In the event that your car accident lawsuit proceeds to trial, your attorney will represent you in court. 

Schedule a Consultation With Jackson & Foster Law

Jackson & Foster Law provides legal guidance and support to accident victims across Mobile, AL. If you are wondering whether you need a lawyer after a car accident, our attorneys can provide an initial consultation to discuss the details of your case and explore how we can assist you. We also may be able to advise you on whether hiring an attorney might not be necessary. 

Contact us today at 251-433-6699 to schedule your free consultation, then learn more about car accident settlements and how they work for accident cases.