Tuscaloosa Personal Injury Attorney — Ford Firm (Randal S. Ford)
Experienced Tuscaloosa Personal Injury Lawyer
If you were hurt because of someone else’s negligence, you need a seasoned Tuscaloosa personal injury attorney on your side. At The Ford Firm, attorney Randal S. Ford has decades of trial experience representing injured people and families across Alabama.
From car accidents and truck crashes to medical malpractice, nursing home neglect, slip and falls, defective products, catastrophic injury, and wrongful death cases — we fight to recover the maximum compensation you deserve.
We work on contingency — no recovery, no attorney fee.
Types of Personal Injury Cases We Handle
At the Ford Firm, we handle all major categories of personal injury cases across Alabama. Each comes with unique laws, defenses, and challenges. Below we break down the most common case types with Alabama-specific rules, frequently asked voice queries, and detailed answers.
Car Accidents (Auto Collisions)
Common cases: rear-end crashes, head-on collisions, intersection wrecks, drunk driving accidents, distracted driving, hit-and-run, uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) claims.
Truck & 18-Wheeler Accidents
Cases: commercial trucks, tractor-trailers, delivery vehicles
Special Law Issues: Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSR), logbooks, hours-of-service, black box data (EDR)
Motorcycle Accidents
Law Issue: Helmet use is mandatory under Ala. Code § 32-5A-245
Slip & Fall / Premises Liability
Cases: stores, restaurants, apartment complexes, hotels, public sidewalks
Law: Property owners must maintain reasonably safe premises for lawful visitors
Medical Malpractice
Cases: surgical errors, medication mistakes, misdiagnosis, birth injuries, failure to treat
Law: Ala. Code § 6-5-482 (two-year limitation, with some exceptions)
Nursing Home Neglect & Abuse
Cases: bedsores, malnutrition, dehydration, falls, medication errors, physical abuse
Product Liability (Defective Products)
Cases: defective tires, dangerous appliances, unsafe drugs, malfunctioning equipment
Catastrophic Injuries
Cases: traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury, paralysis, amputations, severe burns
Wrongful Death
Law: Ala. Code § 6-5-410. Unique to Alabama, damages are punitive only, not compensatory
FAQs
How long do I have to sue after a car accident in Alabama?
You generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. If a government vehicle or city is involved, special notice rules may apply (as short as six months). Call immediately to preserve your rights.
Can I get compensation if the other driver has no insurance in Alabama?
Yes, but you’ll need to rely on your UM/UIM coverage. We also investigate whether the at-fault driver was working at the time (employer liability) or whether other negligent parties (vehicle owner, manufacturer, or bar in a dram shop case) may be liable.
What if I was partially at fault in the wreck?
Alabama’s contributory negligence law is strict. Even if you were only 1% at fault, insurers will argue you cannot recover. Skilled trial lawyers know how to build liability proof that avoids or defeats this defense.
What if I was What should I do if I’m hit by an 18-wheeler in Alabama?partially at fault in the wreck?
Call 911, get medical care, and then contact an attorney immediately. Trucking companies often send response teams within hours. We send spoliation letters to preserve black box and logbook evidence.
Are truck accident claims worth more than car accident claims?
Often yes — injuries are more severe and multiple defendants may be liable (driver, trucking company, manufacturer, or maintenance provider).
How do I prove medical malpractice in Alabama?
You must show a doctor or healthcare provider breached the standard of care, causing injury. Expert testimony is required.
What is the time limit to sue for medical malpractice?
Two years, though in some hidden-injury cases you may have six months from discovery, but never more than four years total.
Can I sue if I slip and fall in a grocery store in Alabama?
Yes, if the store had notice of the hazard (spill, uneven floor, broken tile) and failed to correct it. Proof of notice is critical.
How long do I have to file a slip and fall lawsuit in Alabama?
Two years, but earlier notice requirements may apply if the property is city-owned.
Can I recover if I wasn’t wearing a helmet in Alabama?
It can complicate your case, but you may still recover if the accident was caused by another driver’s negligence. Insurers may argue contributory negligence, but careful legal presentation matters.
How do I report nursing home abuse in Alabama?
Call the Alabama Department of Public Health or Adult Protective Services — and contact an attorney to preserve claims for damages.
Can a nursing home be sued for wrongful death in Alabama?
Yes. Alabama’s wrongful death statute allows claims when neglect or abuse causes a resident’s death.
Can I sue if a defective product injured me in Alabama?
Yes, under the Alabama Extended Manufacturer’s Liability Doctrine (AEMLD). Manufacturers, sellers, and distributors may be held liable.
What qualifies as a catastrophic injury?
Any injury that permanently changes your ability to work, function, or live independently — like brain trauma, spinal cord injury, or major burns.
Who can file a wrongful death lawsuit in Alabama?
Only the personal representative of the estate (executor/administrator).
What damages are allowed in wrongful death cases?
Alabama law allows punitive damages only, designed to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar conduct.
Call The Ford Firm Today
Tuscaloosa Personal Injury Attorney Randal S. Ford
205-454-7500 | Free Consultation | No Fee Unless We Win
