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1. Ensure Safety & Call 911
Your top priority after a car accident is health and safety. Start by checking yourself for injuries, then check others for injuries.
Move vehicles and yourself off of the road and out of traffic, if you are able and it is safe to do so.
Call 911. If there are any injuries, fatalities, or significant property damage, do this as soon as possible.
2. Exchange Information With All Involved Parties
Collect the following information from everyone involved in the accident:
- Name
- Address
- Phone number
- Driver’s license number
- License plate number
- Insurance company name and policy number
Provide your own information to all other involved parties as well.
**DO NOT admit fault or apologize to another party. Limit all communication to the exchange of this information.
3. Document the Scene of the Accident
If you are able, take photos and/or videos of:
- Vehicle damage
- Road conditions
- Traffic signs or signals
- Skid marks and debris
It’s a good idea to also make note of the date, time, weather conditions, and location of the accident.
If there are any witnesses, ask for their contact information and statements about what they saw.
4. File a Police Report
Under Alabama state law, you are required to file an accident report if:
- There are any injuries or fatalities
- There is property damage exceeding $250*
*If property damage exceeds $500, you must file an SR-31 report with the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency.
Once the police report is filed, obtain a copy for your personal records.
**DO NOT admit fault.
5. Seek Medical Attention
Even if you feel uninjured, get checked by a medical professional. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent. Increased adrenaline can significantly reduce pain temporarily, making injuries seem less severe or even non-existent at first.
Getting medical attention helps ensure your health and safety are being addressed, and medical records will serve as key pieces of evidence in the following insurance claim and/or legal case.
6. Notify Your Insurance Provider
Report the accident to your insurance company. Provide only accurate and factual details. Avoid admitting any fault.
Be very cautious about any statements you provide. Any apology or admission of fault could bar you from receiving compensation under Alabama’s contributory negligence law.
7. Consult With an Alabama Car Accident Attorney
While not required, it is highly advisable to seek legal representation from a skilled Alabama car accident lawyer. Having an attorney on your side substantially improves your chances of securing maximum compensation, while minimizing the chances of receiving no compensation.
An attorney will be able to collect evidence, negotiate with the insurance companies, navigate legal processes and complexities, and represent you in court, if needed.
With Long & Long Injury Attorneys, you’ll have an assigned team dedicated to advocating for your rights and making the legal process as stress-free as possible. We’ll handle all legal proceedings for you while remaining available 24/7 to answer questions and provide support. There is absolutely zero cost to you unless we successfully secure compensation on your behalf. Get your free case review today – we handle cases in Mobile, Orange Beach, Gulf Shores, Foley, and the surrounding areas.
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