Birmingham Car Accident Lawyers with $100M+ Recovered

We Download Black-Box Data, Reconstruct Crashes, and Take Cases to Trial

Whether you’re driving through “Dead Man’s Curve” on I-20 westbound, navigating the Malfunction Junction interchange, merging on Morgan Road and I-459, or stuck in US-280 rush-hour traffic, Birmingham’s roads are some of the most dangerous in Alabama. Jefferson County sees nearly 19,000 car accidents every year—accounting for more than 11% of all traffic deaths statewide. If you’ve been injured in a Birmingham car accident, you need a trusted auto accident lawyer who knows the local roads, local courts, and Alabama’s strict contributory negligence laws.

The Fob James Law Firm helps crash victims recover maximum compensation for their injuries. Our Birmingham car accident attorneys secure black-box (EDR) data, work with top crash-reconstruction experts, negotiate aggressively with insurance companies, and take major cases to trial when necessary. With 40+ years of experience and multiple multi-million-dollar recoveries, we fight to protect your rights so you can focus on healing.

Birmingham Car Accident Lawyer – At a Glance

📍 Office Location: 2226 1st Ave S, Suite 105, Birmingham, AL 35233

📞 Phone: 205-407-6009 (Free Consultation)

💰 Fee Structure: No win, no fee (contingency only – 33-40%)

📊 Recent Results: $6 Million | $1.5 Million | $1.1 Million | $1.0 Million | $960,000 | $876,000

⚖️ Combined Experience: 40+ years representing Birmingham injury victims

🎯 Cases We Handle: Car crashes, truck accidents, wrongful death, catastrophic injuries

⏰ Alabama Statute of Limitations: 2 years from accident date

🚗 Service Area: Birmingham, Jefferson County, and all of Alabama

⚡ Critical Timeline: Black-box data can be lost in 14-30 days – Call NOW

What Sets Us Apart:
✅ We download black-box (EDR) data before it’s erased
✅ We prepare every case for trial from day one
✅ We handle fewer cases for personalized attention
✅ We appear regularly in Jefferson County Circuit Court
✅ We use top-tier accident reconstruction experts

Bottom Line: Insurance companies know we go to trial. That drives better settlements.

Why Birmingham Drivers Trust Fob James Law Firm

The responsibility that comes with representing individuals is real and important but I wouldn’t trade it for anything—representing individuals is what I want to do the rest of my life.”

Fob James IV, Car Accident Attorney, J.D. Vanderbilt Law School

Our Approach to Birmingham Car Accident Cases:

• We handle fewer cases to give your claim personal attention (not a settlement mill)
• 40+ years of combined experience helping injury victims maximize compensation
• No fees upfront — you pay nothing unless we win your case
• Thorough investigation — we act quickly to preserve critical evidence, including black-box (EDR) data.
• Trial experience in Jefferson County Circuit Court (Birmingham and Bessemer Divisions)
• Proven results, including multiple seven-figure settlements in Birmingham and Jefferson County.

Recent Personal Injury Settlements

$6 Million • $1.5 Million • $1.1 Million • $1 Million • $960K • $876K

Results based on pre-trial recoveries for Alabama crash victims. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes.

See why clients across Birmingham and Jefferson County trust our aggressive, results-driven approach. Read our 5-star reviews and contact us today for a free case review.

Fob James Law Firm vs. Other Birmingham Car Accident Lawyers

Unlike many personal injury firms in Birmingham, we take a different approach to car accident cases:

We Actually Download Black-Box Data (Most Don’t)

Most Birmingham car accident lawyers talk about black-box data but never actually obtain it. We move immediately to preserve EDR (Event Data Recorder) data before it’s overwritten or destroyed.

Why This Matters:

• Black-box data can be erased in as little as 14-30 days
• EDR data proves vehicle speed, braking, steering, and driver behavior
• This technical evidence often makes the difference between winning and losing

Proof It Works:

• In our $960,000 Roebuck Parkway case, black-box data proved our client was driving UNDER the speed limit (defense claimed speeding)
• In our $876,000 I-65 truck crash, EDR data proved negligent maintenance caused the truck to stall
• In our $1.1M Highway 431 case, black-box data proved our client had no time to react

We Prepare Every Case for Trial (Not Just Settlement)

Insurance companies know which lawyers will actually go to trial—and which won’t. We prepare every case as if a Jefferson County jury will decide it.

Why This Matters:

• Trial preparation includes accident reconstruction, expert witnesses, and courtroom strategy
• Insurance adjusters settle cases fairly when they know you’re prepared for trial
• Settlement mills take quick, low settlements because they won’t invest in trial preparation

Our Trial Experience:

• Regular appearances in Jefferson County Circuit Court (Birmingham and Bessemer Divisions)
• Working relationships with Birmingham’s top accident reconstruction experts
• Experience presenting black-box data and technical evidence to juries
• Track record of obtaining policy limits when insurance companies won’t settle fairly

We Handle Fewer Cases (Quality Over Quantity)

We intentionally limit our caseload to 30-40 serious injury cases at a time versus 200+ cases at high-volume settlement mills.

Why This Matters:

• Your attorney actually knows your name, case details, and medical treatment
• We have time to investigate thoroughly and build the strongest case possible
• You get direct attorney access (not just paralegals)
• We focus on serious injury cases worth fighting for

What “Settlement Mill” Means:

• 200+ active cases per attorney
• Paralegals or CSR reps handling most client communication
• Quick settlements (often for far less than case value)
• No trial preparation
• No black-box data retrieval
• No accident reconstruction experts

Our Approach:

• 30-40 active cases per attorney
• Direct attorney access throughout your case
• Thorough investigation and trial preparation
• Expert witnesses when needed
• We fight for maximum compensation

We Focus on Jefferson County (Local Knowledge Matters)

We appear regularly in Jefferson County Circuit Court (Birmingham and Bessemer Divisions). We know the judges, understand local jury tendencies, and leverage this insight to build stronger cases.

Why Local Experience Matters:

• We know which judges favor injury plaintiffs
• We understand Birmingham jury demographics and what resonates with local jurors
• We know the defense attorneys representing insurance companies
• We’re familiar with local hospital records departments
• We know Birmingham’s dangerous roads, intersections, and traffic patterns

We Use Top-Tier Experts (Not Generic “Medical Reviews”)

We work with the best accident reconstruction experts, biomechanical engineers, medical experts, and economists in Alabama. We don’t cut corners on case preparation.

Our Expert Network Includes:

• Accident reconstruction specialists who download and analyze EDR/black-box data
• Biomechanical engineers who prove injury causation
• 3D modeling experts who create courtroom presentations
• Medical experts who testify about future care needs and permanency
• Economic experts who calculate lifetime earning capacity loss
• Vocational rehabilitation experts who prove disability

Bottom Line: Choose Trial Lawyers, Not Settlement Mills

If you want:

• Quick settlement (even if undervalued) → Choose a settlement mill
• Maximum compensation and someone who will fight for you → Choose Fob James Law Firm

We’re trial lawyers who happen to settle most cases favorably because insurance companies know we’re prepared to go to trial.

Injured in a Birmingham Car Accident? Do This Right Now

If Your Crash Happened in the Last 24-48 Hours:

⚠️ CALL US IMMEDIATELY: 205-407-6009

Why Timing Is Critical:

• Black-box data erases in 14-30 days – We need to send a preservation letter NOW
• Traffic camera footage is deleted quickly – Often within 7-14 days
• Witness memories fade – Interview witnesses while details are fresh
• Physical evidence disappears – Skid marks fade, debris is cleared, road conditions change

What We’ll Do in the First 24 Hours:

✅ Send preservation letters to all parties to secure black-box data
✅ Photograph the accident scene while evidence still exists
✅ Interview witnesses while memories are accurate
✅ Obtain police reports and traffic camera footage
✅ Document your injuries with photographs
✅ Coordinate with your medical providers to ensure proper treatment and documentation

Critical: DON’T Do These Things

❌ Don’t talk to the other driver’s insurance company

• They will record your statement and use it against you
• Alabama’s contributory negligence law is STRICT – even admitting 1% fault can destroy your case
• Insurance adjusters are trained to get you to say things that hurt your claim

❌ Don’t post about the accident on social media

• Insurance companies monitor Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok
• They use photos and posts to argue you’re not really injured
• Anything you post can be used against you

❌ Don’t sign anything from the insurance company

• Medical authorizations give them access to your entire medical history
• Recorded statements are used to lock you into a version of events
• Settlement releases end your claim (often for far less than fair value)

Do These Things Immediately:

✅ Seek medical attention TODAY

• Even if you “feel fine” – many injuries appear 24-72 hours after a crash
• Creates critical medical documentation for your case
• Insurance companies use delayed treatment against you (“If you were really hurt, you would have gone to the ER immediately”)

✅ Take photos if you’re able

• Vehicle damage (all angles, close-ups and wide shots)
• Accident scene (road conditions, traffic signs, skid marks)
• Your visible injuries (bruises, cuts, swelling)
• Other driver’s vehicle and license plate

✅ Get witness contact information

• Names and phone numbers of anyone who saw the crash
• Ask if they recorded the accident (dashcams are increasingly common)
• Get their statements while memory is fresh

✅ Preserve evidence in your vehicle

• Don’t repair your vehicle yet
• Save dashcam footage if you have it
• Keep photos of the damage

If Your Crash Was Weeks or Months Ago:

⚠️ Time is running out on critical evidence

• Black-box data may already be overwritten
• Traffic camera footage has likely been deleted
• Witnesses have forgotten details
• Physical evidence is gone

📞 Call us today: 205-407-6009

Even if weeks or months have passed, we can still help. But every day that passes makes your case harder to prove. Don’t wait any longer.

Alabama’s 2-Year Statute of Limitations

You have 2 years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit in Alabama.

Miss this deadline and you lose your right to compensation forever – no exceptions.

But don’t wait 2 years to call a lawyer:

• Evidence disappears within days/weeks
• Insurance companies want to settle quickly for low amounts
• Your medical treatment may take months or years
• Building a strong case takes time

Call now: 205-407-6009

Recent Birmingham Car Accident Verdicts & Settlements

Fob James Law Firm has recovered millions of dollars for Alabama personal injury victims. Below are recent results:

$6,000,000 Settlement – Catastrophic Injury Case

Location: Birmingham, AL
Injuries: Catastrophic injuries (confidential per client privacy)
Result: Maximum policy limits after extensive litigation and trial preparation

$1,100,000 Settlement – Highway 431 Rear-End Collision

Location: Russell County, AL (Highway 431)
The Crash: Our clients collided with a trailer at night that did not have functioning tail lights
Defense Strategy: Insurance carrier claimed our client should have avoided the crash
How We Won: We hired accident reconstruction experts who used black-box data from our client’s car and 3D modeling to prove that once our client’s headlights illuminated the rear of the black trailer, it was too late to swerve out of the way. Our client did not have adequate time to react.
Result: Insurance carriers tendered policy limits of $1.1 million

$960,000 Settlement – Roebuck Parkway T-Bone Collision

Location: Birmingham (Roebuck Parkway)
The Crash: A hearse from a funeral home t-boned our client, causing facial injuries and double vision
Injuries: Facial injury requiring surgery, double vision
Defense Strategy: Insurance company argued our client was speeding
How We Won: Our expert downloaded black-box data from both vehicles, which proved our client was driving UNDER the speed limit
Result: $960,000 settlement

$876,000 Settlement – I-65 Truck Crash Near Downtown Birmingham

Location: Interstate 65 near Finley Ave exit (north of downtown Birmingham)
The Crash: Our client’s vehicle collided with the rear of a semi-truck that had stalled in the middle of I-65. The truck was not visible because it was emitting black smoke.
Defense Strategy: Trucking company’s insurance carrier denied liability, arguing the truck driver did nothing wrong
How We Won: We filed suit in Jefferson County Circuit Court and used experts to download the truck’s ELD/Black-Box data and reconstruct the crash. Based on expert analysis, we proved the truck had been negligently maintained by the trucking company, which caused it to stall. Using 3D modeling, our reconstruction experts showed our client’s vehicle could not avoid the crash.
Result: $876,000 settlement

$225,000 Settlement – Highway 31 T-Bone Collision

Location: Vestavia Hills (Highway 31)
The Crash: Another driver pulled out in front of our client, causing a t-bone collision
Injuries: Knee injury requiring surgery
Defense Strategy: Other driver blamed our client for the crash, claiming she was speeding
How We Won: Our expert downloaded EDR data from both vehicles pre-suit, proving the other driver was responsible for the crash
Result: $225,000 settlement

$150,000 Settlement – Distracted Driver Claim

Location: Mobile, AL (Spring Hill Avenue)
The Crash: The other driver pulled out in front of our client
Challenges: Client’s initial law firm quit the case. Insurance company’s top offer was $20,000. Client had an 18-month gap in treatment.
Defense Strategy: At deposition, the defendant lied by blaming the accident on our client. When asked if she would do anything different if she could go back, she brazenly responded “no.”
How We Won: After defendant’s deposition, we located a witness from the 911 call transcript and obtained testimony proving the defendant was clearly at fault. We hired an expert radiologist to compare our client’s MRI and CT scans before the collision with imaging after the collision, proving the collision caused an objective change and herniation in his cervical spine.
Result: Insurance company requested mediation shortly before trial. Case settled for $150,000

$100,000 Settlement – I-20 Sideswipe Crash

Location: Interstate 20 at Oporto Madrid exit
The Crash: 12-year-old passenger injured when her driver slammed on brakes to avoid rear-ending the car in front
Injuries: Forehead gash requiring medical treatment
Defense Strategy: Allstate denied liability, arguing client’s driver was 100% at fault
How We Won: Filed lawsuit in Jefferson County Circuit Court arguing Allstate’s insured was primarily at fault because he had been weaving in and out of traffic and tailgating vehicles on the interstate. After subpoenaing body cam footage, we obtained important testimony and physical evidence showing Allstate’s insured swerved in front of our client’s car, causing the wreck.
Result: Allstate tendered policy limits of $100,000. Treatment consisted of one ER visit and one neurologist visit.

Disclaimer: Case descriptions and recoveries presented here are not an indication of future results. Every case is different and must be evaluated on its own facts and circumstances as they apply to the law.

Common Causes of Car Accidents in Birmingham

The Birmingham, AL car accident lawyers of the Fob James Law Firm fight tirelessly for our clients. We provide compassionate legal representation and fight to recover the compensation you deserve.

Although you can sustain serious or life-threatening injuries in almost any type of motor vehicle collision, some of the most common causes of car accidents include:

Driver Negligence:

• Failure to yield to the right of way,
• Tailgating and following too closely, 
• Improper lane changes,
• Excessive speed and racing,
• Failure to obey traffic signals,
• Distracted driving (texting, phone calls, eating, rubbernecking),
• Drunk driving and DUI,
• Dram Shop / Liquor Liability,
• Fatigued or drowsy driving, and
• Aggresive driving and road rage

Vehicle and Road Conditions:

• Defective vehicles and auto parts,
• Brake failures and tire blowouts,
• Road construction zones,
• Roadway debris,
• Obstructed views and poor visibility,
• Poor signage and traffic control,
• Poor roadway maintenance, and
• Dangerous road design (particularly at Birmingham’s “Malfunction Junction”)

Collision Types We Handle:

• Head-on collisions,
• T-bone collisions (side-impact crashes),
• Rear-end collisions,
• Sideswipe accidents,
• Rollover crashes,
• Multi-vehicle pileups
• Pedestrians accidents,
• Motorcyle accidents,
• Commercial truck and 18-wheeler crashes, and
• Rideshare accidents (Uber and Lyft).

Special Case Types:

• Dram Shop / Liquor Liability (bars over-serving intoxicated drivers)
• Wrongful death cases
• Hit and run accidents
• Uninsured/underinsured motorist claims

Our Birmingham car accident attorneys will assist you with every aspect of your case and handle all the details. This ensures that you can focus on recovering from your injuries and putting your life back on track.

In most cases, we can negotiate a settlement with the at-fault party’s insurance company before going to court. However, if filing a lawsuit becomes necessary, we will build the most well-documented, persuasive case and fight for you in court.

Why Birmingham’s Roads Are So Dangerous: The Statistics

Alabama remains one of the most dangerous states for drivers. In 2024, the fatality rate was 18.6 deaths per 100,000 people, among the highest in the country.

As the saying goes, protect yourself and family at all times. You need to always be aware of your surroundings and keep a proper lookup while driving. Never drive fatigued or distracted on Alabama roads. Wear your seatbelt and put your phone away so you are not tempted to use it on the road.

But even safe drivers cannot control other motorists. One distracted or impaired driver can cause life-changing injuries. If that happens, a Birmingham car accident lawyer can help protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve.

2024 Alabama Crash Data (ALDOT)

ALDOT tracks crash statistics on Alabama maintained roads. Below are some of the most alarming highlights from the 2024 data.

Crash Frequency:

• A crash occurred every 3 minutes, 45 seconds
• A person was injured every 14 minutes, 27 seconds
• 141,000+ total crashes statewide
• 36,601 injuries reported
• 967 deaths occurred in traffic crashes

Dangerous Driving Behaviors:

• 65 fatalities involved distracted driving
• Alcohol-related crashes remain a leading cause
• Speed-related crashes account for significant percentage

Lifetime Risk:

• Alabama drivers have a 40%+ lifetime chance of being in an injury or fatal crash
• This is HIGHER than most other states

Why Birmingham Is Particularly Dangerous

Jefferson County sees nearly 19,000 car accidents every year—accounting for more than 11% of all traffic deaths statewide.

What Should I Do After a Car Accident in Birmingham?

There are several things you should do in the immediate aftermath of a car accident:

Step 1: Stop and Call 911 Immediately

Legal Requirement:

• Alabama law requires you to stop after any accident
• Leaving the scene is a crime (even if not at fault)

Call 911 for:

• Police to respond and document the scene
• Ambulance if anyone is injured
• Fire department if there’s a fuel leak or fire risk

Move Your Vehicle (If Safe):

• If operable and you’re able, move to the side of the road
• Turn on hazard lights
• Don’t move the vehicle if you’re injured or if it might destroy evidence

Step 2: Seek Medical Care Immediately

Get Checked at the Scene:

• Let paramedics evaluate you (even if you “feel fine”)
• Adrenaline masks pain – injuries often appear 24-72 hours later
• Paramedic evaluation creates important documentation

Birmingham Area Hospitals:

1. UAB University Hospital – 1802 6th Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35233
2. UAB St. Vincent’s Birmingham West – 810 St. Vincent’s Dr, Birmingham, AL 35205
3. UAB St. Vincent’s East – 50 Medical Park Dr E, Birmingham, AL 35235
4. Grandview Medical Center – 3690 Grandview Pkwy, Birmingham, AL 35243
5. Brookwood Baptist Medical Center – 2010 Brookwood Medical Center Dr, Birmingham, AL 35209
6. Trinity Medical Center – 800 Montclair Rd, Birmingham, AL 35213
7. UAB Medical West – 5000 Medical W Wy, Bessemer, AL 35022

Don’t Let Medical Expenses Deter You:

• Our attorneys work with hospital billing departments to negotiate liens
• You don’t pay medical bills upfront in injury cases
• Bills are typically paid from settlement proceeds

Step 3: Gather Evidence at the Scene

If you’re physically able and it’s safe, collect:

Photos to Take:

• Both vehicles (all angles)
• License plates of all vehicles
• Damage close-ups
• Road conditions
• Traffic signs and signals
• Skid marks or tire marks
• Your visible injuries
• Airbag deployment

Information to Exchange:

• Driver’s name, address, phone number
• Insurance company and policy number
• Vehicle make, model, year, color, license plate
• Driver’s license number

Witness Information:

• Names and phone numbers of anyone who saw the crash
• Ask if they recorded the accident (dashcams are common)
• Get brief statement while memory is fresh

Step 4: Get the Police Report

How to Obtain Your Birmingham Police Report:

• Birmingham crash reports are available online
• Reports usually available 5-10 days after crash
• Cost: Approximately $10

Or we can obtain your report for you.

Step 5: Contact a Birmingham Car Accident Attorney Immediately

Call us at 205-407-6009 BEFORE you:

• Talk to the other driver’s insurance company
• Give any recorded statements
• Sign any documents
• Post about the accident on social media
• Repair your vehicle

What Is My Birmingham Car Accident Case Worth?

Short Answer: The average car accident settlement in Birmingham is around $30,000. However, serious injury cases range from $200,000 to $6,000,000+ depending on multiple factors.

Factors That Determine Case Value

Injury-Related Factors:

• Medical expenses (past and future treatment costs, surgeries, rehabilitation, therapy)
• Lost wages (time off work, reduced earning capacity, lost career opportunities)
• Pain and suffering (physical pain, emotional distress, mental anguish)
• Permanent disability (lasting impairments, disfigurement, loss of bodily function)
• Quality of life impact (inability to enjoy activities, hobbies, family time)
• Loss of consortium (impact on spousal relationship for married victims)

Non-Injury Factors That Impact Value:

1. Available insurance coverage (can’t recover more than policy limits)
2. Venue (Birmingham juries often award more than rural Alabama juries)
3. Defendant likability (corporate defendants vs. individual drivers)
4. Plaintiff likability (jury’s sympathy for the victim)
5. Severity of crash (high-speed impacts, total loss vehicles)
6. Defendant’s conduct (drunk driving, hit and run = potential punitive damages)
7. Quality of evidence (black-box data, surveillance footage, witness statements)

Alabama has NO DAMAGE CAPS for car accident cases – there is no maximum limit on what juries can award.

Birmingham Car Accident Settlement Value Chart

Our Recent Birmingham Car Accident Settlements

Real Results from Fob James Law Firm:

Disclaimer: Past results do not guarantee future outcomes. Every case must be evaluated on its own facts.

Free Case Valuation

Want to know what your Birmingham car accident case is worth?

Call 205-407-6009 for a free consultation.

We’ll evaluate:

• Your injuries and medical treatment
• Available insurance coverage
• Strength of liability evidence
• Potential case value range
• Timeline for resolution

No cost. No obligation. Just honest answers.

Frequently Asked Questions: Birmingham Car Accident Claims

1. How much does a Birmingham car accident lawyer cost?

We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing upfront.

Our fee structure:

• 33% of settlement if we resolve your case before filing a lawsuit
• 40% of settlement if we file a lawsuit and litigate the case
• You only pay if we win your case

What this means:

• $0 upfront costs – no retainer, no hourly fees
• We advance all case expenses – expert fees, court costs, investigation costs
• If we don’t win, you don’t pay – you owe us nothing

2. Why should I hire a Birmingham car accident lawyer?

Local knowledge, trial readiness, and insurance leverage directly affect case value.

We provide:

• Evidence preservation (black-box data, traffic cameras, witnesses)
• Protection from Alabama’s harsh contributory negligence law
• Insurance negotiation expertise
• Trial preparation that drives better settlements
• Jefferson County courtroom experience

Statistics: Injury victims with lawyers recover 3.5 times more than those without lawyers.

3. How long do I have to file a car accident claim in Alabama?

Alabama’s statute of limitations is 2 years from the date of the accident. Some exceptions apply, especially for claims involving minors or government vehicles.

But don’t wait:

• Black-box data can be lost in 14-30 days
• Traffic camera footage deleted within 7-30 days
• Witness memories fade quickly
• Evidence disappears

Call immediately: 205-407-6009

4. What types of cases does Fob James Law Firm handle?

We focus on serious injury and wrongful death cases:

• Car vs. car collisions
• Truck accidents
• Motorcycle accidents
• Pedestrian accidents
• T-bone/head-on/rear-end crashes
• Drunk driving accidents
• Rideshare (Uber/Lyft) accidents
• Wrongful death
• Catastrophic injuries

We do NOT handle:

• Minor fender-benders with no injury
• Property damage only

5. Do I need a lawyer after a Birmingham car accident?

If you were injured, YES.

Insurance companies have lawyers working for them. You should too.

You definitely need a lawyer if:

• Serious injuries requiring hospitalization/surgery
• Permanent disability or disfigurement
• Wrongful death
• Disputed liability
• Insurance company denying claim
• Low settlement offers

Call for free consultation: 205-407-6009

6. How long does a personal injury case take in Birmingham?

Timeline varies:

• Simple cases: 3-6 months
• Complex litigation: 12-24+ months

Phases:

1. Medical treatment (0-12 months)
2. Investigation & demand (1-3 months)
3. Negotiation (1-3 months)
4. Litigation if necessary (12-24 months)

We don’t rush settlements – we fight for maximum compensation regardless of timeline.

7. What makes your firm different from other Birmingham car accident lawyers?

See detailed comparison section above.

Quick summary:
✅ We download black-box data (most don’t)
✅ We prepare for trial (not just settlement)
✅ We handle fewer cases (quality over quantity)
✅ We focus on Jefferson County (local knowledge)
✅ We use top-tier experts

8. Will my case go to trial?

Probably not (95% settle), but we prepare as if it will.

Our approach:

• Prepare EVERY case for trial
• Insurance companies see our preparation
• They settle fairly when they know we’re ready
• We take cases to trial when they won’t settle fairly

9. What should I do immediately after a Birmingham car accident?

See detailed section above under “What Should I Do After a Car Accident in Birmingham?”

Quick checklist:
✅ Call 911
✅ Seek medical attention
✅ Take photos
✅ Exchange information
✅ Get witness contacts
✅ Call us: 205-407-6009

❌ Don’t admit fault
❌ Don’t give recorded statements
❌ Don’t post on social media

10. Can I still recover compensation if I was partially at fault?

Likely NO – Alabama’s contributory negligence law is very strict. Under this law (Golden v. McCurry, 1979), if you are even 1% at fault, you may recover NOTHING.

This is why immediate legal representation is critical.

How we protect you:

• Investigate thoroughly to prove you were 0% at fault
• Download black-box data showing your speed and braking
• Obtain witness statements
• Hire accident reconstruction experts

Call immediately: 205-407-6009

11. What if the other driver doesn’t have insurance?

Alabama has high uninsured motorist rates (14.2%).

Your options:

1. Your Uninsured Motorist (UM) Coverage

• Your own insurance may cover you
• Pays when at-fault driver has no insurance

2. Your Underinsured Motorist (UIM) Coverage

• Pays when at-fault driver’s insurance isn’t enough

3. Personal Assets of At-Fault Driver

• We can pursue their bank accounts, property, wages

4. Other Liable Parties

• Employer (if driver was working)
• Vehicle owner (if different from driver)

We handle UM/UIM claims regularly.

Call 205-407-6009

12. Can I sue if I wasn’t wearing a seatbelt?

YES – According to Alabama Code § 32-5B-7, insurance companies cannot generally use the fact you weren’t wearing a seatbelt to reduce damages or deny a personal injury claim.

We argue the accident caused your injuries regardless of seatbelt use.

13. What if the accident was on I-65, I-20/59, or Highway 280?

Interstate and highway crashes present unique challenges:

• Out-of-state drivers (jurisdiction issues)
• Commercial trucks (FMCSA regulations)
• High-speed impacts (more severe injuries)
• ALDOT road design issues

We handle complex interstate cases with:

• Accident reconstruction experts
• Traffic camera footage retrieval
• Black-box data download
• Federal regulation analysis (trucking)

Call 205-407-6009 for a free consultation.

14. What if I was hit by an Uber or Lyft driver?

Rideshare accidents involve complex insurance:

Coverage depends on app status:

• App OFF: Driver’s personal insurance
• App ON (waiting): Uber/Lyft contingent coverage
• Trip accepted: Uber/Lyft $1 million policy

We navigate multiple insurance layers to maximize recovery.

15. How is fault determined under Alabama law?

Fault is proven through:

• Police investigation and citations
• Traffic law violations
• Black-box (EDR) data
• Witness testimony
• Accident reconstruction
• Physical evidence

Alabama is a fault-based state – the person who causes the accident pays.

But contributory negligence makes fault determination CRITICAL – even 1% fault = $0 recovery.

16. How much is my Birmingham car accident case worth?

See detailed section above.

Average: $30,000
Serious injury: $200,000 to $6,000,000+

Call for free case valuation: 205-407-6009

17. Do I need to get a police report after a car accident?

YES – Police reports are critical evidence.

Why reports matter:

• Official documentation
• Officer’s fault determination
• Citations proving violations
• Witness information

How to obtain:

• Online at ALEA.gov
• Or we can get it for you

18. What are the most common types of car accident injuries?

Injuries range from minor to catastrophic:

Head and Brain:

• Concussions, TBI, skull fractures

Neck and Back:

• Whiplash, herniated discs, spinal cord injuries, paralysis

Extremities:

• Broken bones, torn ligaments, amputations

Soft Tissue:

• Muscle strains, tendon tears

Psychological:

• PTSD, anxiety, depression

Wrongful Death

19. When should I seek medical treatment after an accident?

IMMEDIATELY – even if you “feel fine.”

Why:

• Some injuries don’t appear for 24-72 hours
• Adrenaline masks pain
• Creates critical documentation
• Delayed treatment hurts your case

Birmingham hospitals: UAB, St. Vincent’s, Grandview, Brookwood Baptist, Trinity

20. What if my initial lawyer quit my case?

We’ve successfully taken over cases other lawyers abandoned.

Example: $150,000 settlement on case where:

• Previous lawyer quit
• Insurance offered only $20,000
• Client had 18-month treatment gap

We found new witnesses, hired experts, and won.

Don’t give up if your lawyer quit.

Call for free case review: 205-407-6009

Legal Framework for Birmingham Car Accident Cases

Several laws and safety rules determine how fault is assigned and how insurance companies evaluate your claim.

Alabama Car Accident Laws

Key Alabama Rules:

Contributory Negligence (Ala. Code § 6-5-521)

• Even slight fault can bar recovery
• 1% fault = $0 recovery
• One of harshest laws in America

Statute of Limitations (Ala. Code § 6-2-38)

• 2 years from accident date to file lawsuit

Mandatory Insurance (Ala. Code § 32-7-6)

• Minimum liability: $25,000 per person / $50,000 per accident
• Property damage: $25,000 minimum

Seat Belt Defense (Ala. Code § 32-5B-7)

• Not wearing seatbelt cannot be used as evidence of contributory negligence or limit the liability of an insurer

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) Rules

FMCSA rules apply when commercial trucks are involved:

Hours of Service (49 CFR § 395)

• 11-hour daily driving limit
• Mandatory rest breaks
• Electronic Logging Device required

Vehicle Inspection (49 CFR § 396)

• Pre-trip and post-trip inspections
• Regular maintenance schedules

Drug and Alcohol Testing (49 CFR § 382)

• Pre-employment, random, post-accident testing

Violations often support negligence claims and increase trucking company liability.

Serving Birmingham’s Most Dangerous Roads & Intersections

We represent accident victims throughout Birmingham and Jefferson County.

Interstate Crashes We Handle

I-65 (North and South through downtown):

• Heavy truck traffic, high speeds
• Accidents near Finley Ave exit

I-20/59 “Malfunction Junction”:

• One of most confusing interchanges in America
• Multiple lanes merging and splitting

I-459 (Hoover, Vestavia, Mountain Brook loop):

• Rush hour congestion
• Dangerous curves

High-Risk Highways

US-280 (“Death Highway”):

• Notorious for accidents statewide
• Rush hour gridlock

Highway 31:

• Through Vestavia Hills and Homewood
• T-bone crashes common

Dangerous Intersections

• “Dead Man’s Curve” (I-20 westbound)
• Malfunction Junction
• Morgan Road at I-459
• Lakeshore Drive intersections

Birmingham Hospital Coverage

Our clients receive treatment at:

• UAB University Hospital
• UAB St. Vincent’s (East and West)
• Grandview Medical Center
• Brookwood Baptist Medical Center
• Trinity Medical Center
• UAB Medical West (Bessemer)

We work with all Birmingham hospitals to:

• Obtain medical records quickly
• Negotiate hospital liens
• Ensure proper treatment

Communities We Serve

Central Birmingham:

• Downtown, Five Points South, UAB District, Southside

Over the Mountain:

• Homewood, Mountain Brook, Vestavia Hills, Hoover

East Jefferson County:

• Trussville, Clay, Center Point, Irondale

West Jefferson County:

• Bessemer, Hueytown, Fairfield, Pleasant Grove

We know Birmingham’s roads, hospitals, and courts.

Contact a Birmingham Car Accident Lawyer Near Me

If you’ve been injured in a car accident, you don’t have to deal with this traumatic situation alone.

Trust the Birmingham personal injury lawyers at Fob James Law Firm to assist you through this challenging time. We will fight tirelessly for you to help you recover the compensation you deserve for your injuries, trauma, and losses.

Free Consultation — No Fee Unless We Win

Contact us:

📞 Phone: 205-407-6009
📧 Online: Secure Contact Form
📍 Office: 2226 1st Ave S, Suite 105, Birmingham, AL 35233

We offer:

• Free consultation and case analysis
• No upfront costs or fees
• You pay nothing unless we win
• Direct attorney access
• 40+ years combined experience

Serving Birmingham & Jefferson County

We proudly represent car accident victims across:

• Birmingham
• Homewood
• Hoover
• Mountain Brook
• Vestavia Hills
• Trussville
• Bessemer
• All of Jefferson County

Call 205-407-6009 for a free consultation

Don’t let insurance companies take advantage of you. Call a Birmingham car accident lawyer who will fight for maximum compensation.

Birmingham Car Accident Information

• Alabama Minimum Insurance Requirements in 2026January 20, 2026
• The Most Dangerous Roads and Intersections in Birmingham, ALNovember 14, 2025
• The Best Personal Injury Lawyers in Birmingham, AlabamaOctober 30, 2025
• The Dangers of Tailgating in Alabama: Why Following Too Closely Leads to Serious AccidentsOctober 17, 2025
•  🚗 T-Bone Collisions in Birmingham, AL: What You Need to KnowSeptember 22, 2025

Alabama Car Accident News

• Flomaton Teen Hospitalized After Serious Highway 31 CrashFebruary 10, 2026
• Semi-Truck Crash Closes I-22 Westbound Near Forestdale, ALFebruary 1, 2026
• Five People Killed in Three Deadly Baldwin County CrashesDecember 31, 2025
• Man Killed, Woman Critically Injured After 18-Wheeler Collision in Meridianville, AlabamaDecember 17, 2025
• Truck Driver Killed After Tractor-Trailer Overturns on I-59/20 in BirminghamDecember 1, 2025