Pedestrian safety is a growing concern across Alabama, with cities such as Mobile and Montgomery experiencing a rise in pedestrian injuries. A pedestrian accident lawyer in Alabama can help victims understand their rights and pursue fair compensation. In 2023 alone, Alabama reported more than 900 pedestrian crashes and 120 fatalities, a troubling trend that continues to impact families statewide.
At Caldwell Wenzel & Asthana Injury Lawyers, our attorneys have decades of experience helping accident victims recover the compensation they deserve. Visit our Homepage to learn more about our client-first approach and proven record of results.
Causes of Pedestrian Accidents: Key Takeaways
- Speeding and distracted driving are among the leading causes of pedestrian accidents in Alabama cities.
- Poor lighting, unsafe crosswalks, and driver impairment greatly increase injury risk.
- Victims should contact an experienced pedestrian accident lawyer in Alabama quickly to protect evidence and pursue compensation.
Speeding and Reckless Driving Still Lead the Statistics
Speeding remains one of the most dangerous causes of pedestrian crashes. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), a pedestrian struck at 40 mph has an 80% chance of dying, compared to just 10% at 20 mph. Alabama’s “reasonable and prudent speed” law (§32-5A-170) requires drivers to adjust for conditions, yet many exceed safe limits on multi-lane roads and suburban corridors.
Lawyers often rely on evidence such as skid marks, black box data, and nearby camera footage to reconstruct the events that occurred. These details can establish negligence and strengthen a compensation claim for victims and their families.
Distracted Driving Puts Everyone in Danger
From text messages to dashboard touch screens, distractions make Alabama roads deadly for pedestrians. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that nine people die every day in crashes involving distracted drivers, and one in five victims is a pedestrian. Even a three-second glance away from the road can mean traveling more than 150 feet blind at 45 mph.
In Alabama, it is illegal to hold a phone while driving under the 2023 hands-free law. Still, distracted drivers remain a significant threat, especially in busy areas such as downtown Mobile and Foley. An attorney can subpoena phone records, GPS data, or dashcam footage to prove driver inattention.
Nighttime Visibility Issues and Poor Lighting
More than three-quarters of pedestrian deaths occur at night, according to the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). Dim streetlights, glare, and dark clothing make pedestrians difficult to spot. Many Alabama neighborhoods still rely on outdated lighting that leaves crosswalks poorly illuminated.
The FHWA recommends several upgrades proven to reduce nighttime crashes:
- Brighter LED streetlights focused on crosswalks
- Reflective pavement markings
- Pedestrian-activated flashing beacons
When municipalities fail to maintain adequate lighting, they may share legal responsibility for resulting accidents.
Alcohol and Drug Impairment Create a Dangerous Mix
Driving under the influence is another major cause of Mobile pedestrian injuries. The NHTSA reports that nearly half of all fatal pedestrian crashes involve alcohol consumption either by the driver or the pedestrian. Under Alabama Code §32-5A-191, a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08% or higher constitutes legal impairment.
When a drunk driver hits a pedestrian, victims may seek punitive damages in addition to medical and wage compensation. These damages are designed to punish reckless behavior and deter future offenses.
Poor Crosswalks and Road Design Increase Risk
Infrastructure plays a key role in pedestrian safety. Many Alabama intersections lack marked crosswalks, pedestrian islands, or adequate traffic signals. The FHWA’s Proven Safety Countermeasures report shows that raised medians, curb extensions, and pedestrian countdown timers significantly reduce pedestrian crashes.
Local governments and transportation agencies have a duty to design safe crossings. When they fail to correct known hazards, they may share liability. Because claims against public entities have strict notice deadlines, victims should contact an attorney quickly.
Bad Weather Makes Every Step More Dangerous
Rain, fog, and slick pavement reduce visibility and braking distance, creating dangerous conditions for pedestrians. The Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT) notes that weather-related pedestrian collisions spike in spring and fall. Drivers must slow down, use headlights, and maintain extra following distance in poor weather. Failure to do so may be considered negligence.
Attorneys often use NOAA weather data and traffic footage to prove that unsafe driving during storms contributed to a crash.
Additional Contributing Factors Often Overlooked
Unsafe parking lots and private property: Pedestrian injuries frequently occur in shopping centers and apartment complexes. Property owners must maintain lighting, walkways, and speed-control measures. Negligence can trigger a premises liability claim.
School zones and children at risk: Drivers often ignore reduced school-zone limits. Extra enforcement, crossing guards, and better signage are key to preventing child injuries.
Older pedestrians: Seniors account for about 20% of pedestrian deaths in Alabama. Mobility limitations and slower walking speeds make longer signal times and safe sidewalks essential.
Why Legal Representation Is Essential in Pedestrian Claims
Alabama’s pure contributory negligence rule is strict: if you are even 1% at fault, you may be denied compensation. That’s why having an experienced pedestrian accident lawyer in Alabama is critical. Skilled attorneys investigate evidence, interview witnesses, and work with accident reconstruction specialists to build strong cases.
Legal teams can also handle tough negotiations with insurers who attempt to minimize payouts. Visit our Motor Vehicle Accidents Practice Page to learn more about how we manage pedestrian and car accident claims.
Taking the Next Step After a Pedestrian Accident
Healing from a pedestrian accident takes time, but quick legal action protects your rights. Evidence, such as surveillance video or witness statements, can disappear quickly. Contacting an attorney early ensures that crucial information is preserved and protected.
The team at Caldwell Wenzel & Asthana Injury Lawyers offers compassionate, results-driven representation. We fight for full and fair compensation while guiding you through every step of the recovery process. Contact us through our Contact Page for a complimentary consultation today.
Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Alabama: Bottom Line
Pedestrian safety in Alabama relies on responsible driving, adequate infrastructure, and prompt legal action following accidents. Working with a trusted pedestrian accident lawyer in Alabama ensures that victims have the support and advocacy they need to recover both physically and financially.
Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Alabama: FAQ
If you’ve been injured, you likely have questions about your rights. Below are some of the most common questions we receive about pedestrian accidents in Alabama:
Q: What should I do right after being hit by a vehicle?
A: Call 911 immediately, get medical attention, and take photos if possible. Exchange contact and insurance details with the driver.
Q: Can I file a claim if I wasn’t in a crosswalk?
A: Yes. Drivers must exercise care regardless of where pedestrians are crossing. Each case depends on visibility, lighting, and traffic conditions.
Q: How long do I have to file a pedestrian injury claim?
A: Generally, two years under Ala. Code §6-2-38. For claims involving public entities, deadlines are shorter.
Q: What damages can I recover?
A: Medical bills, lost wages, rehabilitation, and pain and suffering. In cases involving drunk or reckless drivers, punitive damages may apply.
Q: How much does hiring an attorney cost?
A: At Caldwell Wenzel & Asthana, you pay nothing up front. We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning we charge no fees unless we successfully resolve your case.
About Caldwell Wenzel & Asthana Injury Lawyers
Serving clients across Mobile, Foley, and the Gulf Coast, Caldwell Wenzel & Asthana Injury Lawyers is recognized for strong trial advocacy and compassionate client service. Each case receives direct attorney attention to ensure personalized strategy and communication. Learn more about our mission and proven results on our About Us page.