Alabama has enacted laws requiring drivers and front-seat passengers to wear seatbelts. Code of Ala. § 32-5B-4. If you are injured in an accident but you were not wearing your seatbelt at the time of the collision, insurance companies and their defense lawyers will attempt to argue that you would not have been injured - either not at all or significantly less so - if you were properly buckled in. In making this argument, the defense seeks to prove that you were " contributory negligence " in causing the injuries that were suffered during an accident. To use this defense, however, the other driver's insurance company must prove that your unbuckled seatbelt contributed to, or was a cause of your injuries. In Alabama, however, failure to wear a seat belt can not considered evidence of contributory negligence. Code of Ala. § 32-5B-7.
In all automobile accident cases it is essential that measures be taken promptly to preserve evidence, investigate the accident in question, and to enable physicians or other expert witnesses to thoroughly evaluate any injuries. If you or a loved one is a victim of an automobile accident, call Alexander Shunnarah, Personal Injury Lawyers now at 205-323-1000 or CLICK HERE TO SUBMIT A SIMPLE CASE FORM. The initial consultation is free of charge, and if we agree to accept your case, we will work on a contingent fee basis, which means we get paid for our services only if there is a monetary award or recovery of funds. Don't delay! You may have a valid claim and be entitled to compensation for your injuries, but a lawsuit must be filed before the statute of limitations expires.
