What to Do After a Car Accident in Alabama

Getting into a car accident is never easy, and it can be even more stressful when you’re trying to figure out what steps to take next. Knowing what to do immediately after a crash in Alabama can help protect your health, preserve evidence, and make insurance or legal claims smoother if you need them.

Alabama Crash Trends You Should Know

Alabama saw 140,118 total crashes in 2024, resulting in over 36,600 injuries and 967 fatalities, according to the most recent statewide crash report. While those numbers represent a slight decline from the year before, they show just how common serious collisions still are on Alabama’s roads. 

The report also highlights that seat belt use saves lives, nearly 98 % of people involved in crashes who walked away unharmed were buckled up, compared to about 60 % of those killed who were not wearing seat belts. 

Alabama drivers are exposed to risk every day. According to Drive Safe Alabama data, a person was injured in a traffic crash about every 14 minutes and 24 seconds in 2024, and conditions like speeding, distracted driving, and young driver involvement contribute to serious crashes across the state. 

What to Do at the Scene

Your first priority after an accident should be safety. Check yourself and others involved for injuries. Call 911 if anyone is hurt or if the vehicles are blocking traffic. If your car can be safely driven, move it to the shoulder or another safe area to prevent further damage or injury. If you can’t move your vehicle, turn on your hazard lights and stay inside until help arrives.

Get names, phone numbers, addresses, insurance details, and vehicle information from all drivers involved. If there are witnesses, jot down their contact info too, that can be helpful later if there’s a dispute about what happened. Take photos of all vehicles, license plates, damage, and relevant road conditions. Photos and notes can help show exactly what happened and can be important if you file an insurance claim or legal action.

Alabama law requires you to report certain crashes, especially if there are injuries, fatalities, or significant property damage. If a law enforcement officer responds, they will file a report. If not, check with local authorities to see if you need to make a separate report.

Why Seeing a Doctor Matters

Even if you feel fine, it’s wise to get medical attention soon after a crash. Some injuries, like whiplash or internal issues, may not show immediate symptoms. A doctor can evaluate you and document any injuries, which is crucial if you later file an insurance claim or pursue compensation.

Should You Hire a Car Accident Lawyer?

If another driver’s negligence caused your accident, a lawyer can help you understand your rights and pursue compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, but an experienced personal injury attorney can negotiate on your behalf and ensure your side of the story is heard.

How Accident.com can help

Accident.com connects Alabama crash victims with a nationwide network of personal injury attorneys who understand local laws and insurance tactics. Getting legal help early can make a big difference in your recovery and compensation.

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