Is It Ever Too Late to Call an Injury Lawyer in Alabama?

After experiencing a personal injury from an accident or due to someone else’s negligence, it is natural to feel overwhelmed and unsure of the next steps. If you were involved in an accident in Alabama and are wondering whether it is too late to contact a lawyer, the short answer is not necessarily. However, the timing of your decision can significantly impact your ability to recover compensation for your injuries.

Understanding how Alabama’s laws affect personal injury cases—and how your legal rights may be affected by time—can help you make an informed decision. It is important that you contact an attorney as soon as you can after an accident to be aware of your rights and legal options.

If you have been injured due to another person’s negligence in Alabama, do not hesitate to contact our Personal Injury Attorneys in Mobile at Andy Citrin Injury Attorneys for more information. We offer a free, no-obligation consultation and can help you understand the legal process of making a claim.

Call our trusted law firm to request a FREE case review today: 251-888-8888

What Are the Statutes of Limitations in Alabama?

The statute of limitations is a law that establishes a deadline for filing a lawsuit after an injury occurs. If you fail to file your claim within this time frame could mean losing rights to pursue a claim, regardless of the case’s strength. In Alabama, the statute of limitations for most personal injury cases is two years from the date of the accident or injury.

Examples of injuries that fall under the statute of limitations:

• Car accidents
• Slip and falls
• Dog bites
• Workplace injuries

Certain exceptions and nuances can shorten or extend this deadline. It is essential to understand when the statute of limitations starts and the circumstances that could affect its expiration.

Special Cases That Affect the Statute of Limitations?

• Wrongful Death Claims: If a loved one dies as a result of an accident or injury, Alabama law allows two years from the date of death to file a wrongful death claim
• Minors: If a child is injured, the statute of limitations typically does not begin until the child turns 19. This means parents or guardians have until the child’s 21st birthday to file a claim.
• Medical Malpractice: Medical malpractice claims in Alabama follow specific rules. Generally, the statute of limitations is two years from the date of the injury. However, in cases where the injury is not immediately discovered, the statute of limitations may be extended. Under the “discovery rule,” the clock begins when the injured party becomes aware of the injury.
• Government Liability: If you are injured due to the negligence of a government agency, the statute of limitations may be significantly shorter—often as little as one year. These cases involve specific procedures and require prompt action to meet the stricter timeline.

If you suspect you may have a personal injury claim, it is essential to consult with an attorney as soon as possible. Delays can increase the risk of missing critical deadlines, potentially forfeiting your right to pursue compensation.

Why Should I Contact a Lawyer Immediately Following an Accident?

Even if you are within the statute of limitations, there are compelling reasons to contact an injury lawyer as soon as possible after your injury.

• Investigating the Incident: Your attorney will need to conduct a thorough investigation to determine who is liable for your injury. This process may involve interviewing witnesses, obtaining accident reports, collecting medical records, and consulting with experts to strengthen your case. Giving your legal team sufficient time to complete this work is crucial, as a well-prepared case can greatly improve your chances of securing fair compensation.
• Dealing with Insurance Companies: Insurance companies often aim to settle claims quickly and for as little compensation as possible. A personal injury attorney will advocate for you, ensuring you are not taken advantage of during negotiations. Delaying action can allow the insurer to argue that your injuries were not as severe as you claim or that you waited too long to seek medical treatment, which could undermine your case. An attorney will work to counter these strategies, ensuring that your rights are protected and you receive fair compensation.
• Medical Treatment: The longer you wait to seek medical treatment after an injury, the harder it becomes to prove the full extent of your injuries. Consistent medical documentation is vital in personal injury cases, as it not only demonstrates the seriousness of your injuries but also establishes a direct link to the accident. Delaying treatment can raise doubts about the cause and severity of your injuries as insurance companies often look for gaps in medical treatment, which could undermine the credibility of your claim.
• Preserving Your Right to Compensation: Waiting too long to contact an injury lawyer risks losing the opportunity to recover damages for lost wages, pain and suffering, medical bills, and other related expenses. By contacting a lawyer early, you increase the likelihood of obtaining a fair recovery and ensure that critical deadlines are met, maximizing your chances of compensation for all your losses.

What Happens If I Wait Too Long?

Missing the statute of limitations can result in losing the opportunity to file a lawsuit entirely. Once the deadline passes, you lose the ability to pursue legal action, leaving you with limited options for recovering compensation. While insurance companies may still offer settlements, these amounts are often much lower than what you could potentially recover through a court case.

Insurance companies are aware that after the statute of limitations expires, your legal leverage is greatly diminished, which often results in less favorable offers. The longer you wait to pursue legal action, the harder it becomes to negotiate for fair compensation.​

Contact Andy Citrin Injury Attorneys for Help

It is important to reach out to a qualified personal injury attorney as soon as possible if you have been injured and are unsure if it is too late to pursue legal action.

At Andy Citrin Injury Attorneys, we have a proven history of success. Our highly qualified attorneys work hard to get you the results you need, and we are here to guide you through every step of the legal process. We ensure your rights and best interests are protected. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us help you recover the compensation you deserve.

Millions Recovered for Our Clients. Call: 251-888-8888 today.