Introduction:
If you’ve just been in a car wreck, you’re probably feeling shaken, confused, and unsure of what to do next. Whether it happened on U.S. Highway 280 during your morning commute or on I-65 late at night, knowing the right steps to take can make all the difference—for your health, your legal rights, and your financial future.
At Counsel Hound, our experienced Alabama personal injury attorneys understand how stressful accidents can be. That’s why we’ve created this simple, step-by-step guide to help you protect yourself and your loved ones after a crash.
1. Prioritize Safety First
Move your vehicle to a safe location if you can do so safely.
Check yourself and passengers for injuries.
Call 911 immediately—report the accident and request medical help if needed.
Even minor crashes can cause hidden injuries, like concussions or spinal cord trauma. When in doubt, get evaluated.
2. Document the Scene
If you’re physically able, gather as much information as you can at the scene:
Take photos of vehicle damage, the road, and visible injuries.
Exchange names, contact info, and insurance details with the other driver.
Get contact info for any eyewitnesses.
Ask for a copy of the police report (or at least the report number).
Tip: Avoid saying “I’m sorry” or admitting fault—it may be used against you later, even if you were just being polite.
3. Seek Medical Attention ASAP
Even if you feel okay, see a doctor. Injuries like whiplash or internal bleeding don’t always show up right away.
Getting prompt medical care also creates a record of your injuries, which is critical if you decide to file a personal injury claim.
4. Notify Your Insurance Company
You’ll need to report the crash, but keep your comments brief and factual. You are not required to give a recorded statement without legal guidance.
The insurance adjuster may sound friendly, but remember—they work for the insurance company, not you.
5. Talk to an Alabama Personal Injury Attorney
Before you accept any settlement or sign paperwork, speak to a lawyer who understands car accident law in Alabama.
Under Ala. Code § 6-2-38, you generally have two years to file a personal injury lawsuit. But waiting too long can weaken your case or lead to lost evidence.
An experienced attorney can help you:
Calculate the full value of your claim (medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering)
Handle negotiations with the insurance company
File a lawsuit if needed
6. Know Your Rights in Alabama
Alabama uses a contributory negligence rule. This means if you’re even 1% at fault, you might not be able to recover damages.
That’s why it’s critical to have a skilled Birmingham car accident lawyer review your case early on.
What You May Be Entitled To:
- Emergency room and ongoing medical costs
- Lost wages and future income
- Car repairs or replacement
- Pain and suffering
- Wrongful death benefits (for fatal crashes)
Serving Clients Across Alabama
Whether you’re in Birmingham, Huntsville, Montgomery, or Tuscaloosa, our team helps accident victims all over the state. From truck wrecks on I-20 to motorcycle accidents on backroads near Anniston—we’ve seen it all, and we’re here to help.
Conclusion:
A car accident can turn your life upside down—but you don’t have to face it alone. Our Alabama personal injury lawyers are ready to fight for the compensation you deserve.
Contact Counsel Hound today at 1-855-804-6863 or visit counselhound.com for a FREE consultation.
Disclaimer:
This post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. No representation is made that the quality of legal services to be performed is greater than the quality of legal services performed by other lawyers. Every case is unique. Contact an attorney for specific guidance.
