Motorcycle accidents in Alabama cause thousands of injuries and tragic fatalities every year. According to the Department of Transportation, in 2022 alone, there were 144,263 crashes involving motorcycles, with 907 resulting in lives lost. If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle collision, you may wonder: Who’s at fault? Who pays for the damages?

Under Alabama’s negligence laws, you have the right to seek compensation for your medical bills and other losses. However, proving liability can be challenging, especially when insurers and other parties try to shift blame.

Discover how fault is determined, who’s responsible for paying a settlement, and how a qualified Huntsville motorcycle accident lawyer can help you fight for the compensation you deserve.

Alabama’s Contributory Fault System: How It Works

Alabama follows a contributory fault system, making it one of the country’s strictest states when it comes to negligence. Under this rule, the driver at fault is responsible for covering damages. In motorcycle accidents, this is often another motorist who was speeding, failed to notice the motorcyclist, or was driving under the influence.

Even if you are found to be just 1% at fault for the accident, you could lose your right to recover any compensation. This makes proving fault and presenting strong evidence critical to recovering compensation. However, the process can become complicated when multiple parties are involved, or insurance companies challenge your claim.

Types of Damages After a Motorcycle Accident

You can file for various damages as part of your motorcycle accident claim. Possible compensation can include:

Damages Explanation
Medical Expenses Covers medical expenses from your accident, such as ambulance rides, emergency room visits, hospital stays, surgeries, medications, physical therapy, and follow-up care.
Lost Wages Replaces lost income if your injuries keep you from working. For permanent disabilities, this can also include future lost earnings or reduced earning potential.
Pain and Suffering Compensates for physical pain caused by injuries like fractures, burns, or nerve damage, as well as emotional trauma, including anxiety or PTSD.
Property Damage Pays for repairs or replacement of your motorcycle, protective gear like helmets or jackets, and any other personal belongings damaged in the crash.

 

Other Financial Losses Helps with additional expenses, including travel for specialized medical care or home modifications, like wheelchair ramps, needed after a serious injury.

 

Determining Fault in Motorcycle Accidents in Alabama

Determining liability in a motorcycle accident requires substantial evidence to show who caused the crash. Several types of proof can help establish fault, including:

  • Photos and Videos: Pictures of damage to your motorcycle, skid marks, or debris can provide a clear view of how the accident happened. Footage from traffic or security cameras nearby may capture key details, like the other driver failing to yield during a left turn.
  • Police Reports: The official police report may include the officer’s observations, such as whether a driver was speeding or under the influence, as well as citations issued at the scene, helping to prove liability.
  • Eyewitness Accounts: Statements from pedestrians, other drivers, or nearby residents can corroborate your version of events. For instance, a witness may confirm that a driver ran a red light before hitting your motorcycle.
  • Accident Reconstruction Experts: Specialists recreate the crash using evidence like impact angles, vehicle damage, and road markings. Their analysis can clarify disputes, such as whether a driver swerved into your lane.

Why You Need a Lawyer

Alabama’s strict contributory negligence laws already make motorcycle accident cases difficult, as even minor fault can prevent you from recovering damages. Insurers often exploit this rule, unfairly blaming motorcyclists for crashes caused by someone else.

When multiple parties are involved, claims can become even more complex. For example, a distracted driver might hit you, poorly maintained roads could contribute to the crash, or a defective motorcycle part might fail at a critical moment.

A skilled motorcycle accident attorney protects your rights and holds all responsible parties accountable. At Tyler Mann Injury Law, we collect key evidence, including police reports, video footage, and expert testimony, to build a strong case. Our team handles insurance negotiations, pushes back against unfair biases, and fights to maximize your settlement.

Take Action After a Motorcycle Accident

If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident in Alabama, don’t wait to seek legal assistance. The contributory fault system makes it critical to act quickly to preserve evidence and build your case.

At Tyler Mann Injury Law, our team has won millions for accident victims. We are committed to fighting against unfair stereotypes against motorcyclists and will use a strong legal strategy to help you receive the compensation you deserve.

Contact us today for a free consultation. We can discuss your options and start the process of recovering the damages you’re entitled to.