A car accident can leave you feeling overwhelmed, especially if you’re unsure what to do next. Should you call the police? What if the other driver blames you? How do Alabama’s laws impact your claim?
If you’re in Montgomery, AL, handling the aftermath of an accident correctly is crucial to protecting both your health and your legal rights. Alabama follows a strict contributory negligence rule, meaning that even if you are found just 1% at fault, you may be barred from recovering compensation. That’s why taking the right steps early on can make or break your claim.
As Montgomery’s trusted car accident lawyers, the team at Strickland & Kendall has helped injury victims secure millions in settlements while ensuring their legal rights are protected. This guide will walk you through the exact steps to take after an accident, key Alabama laws to know, and how an attorney can help you maximize your compensation.
1. Ensure Safety and Call 911
Immediately after a crash, your first priority is safety. Alabama law requires drivers to stop at the scene and check for injuries. If possible, move to a safe location away from traffic, but do not leave the accident scene until authorities arrive.
Why Calling 911 Is Critical
Even if the accident seems minor, call 911 right away. Montgomery police or Alabama state troopers will create an official accident report, which can be critical evidence for your insurance claim or lawsuit.
What Information Will Police Need?
- Your driver’s license, registration, and proof of insurance
- A brief, factual statement of what happened (avoid admitting fault)
- Contact information for any witnesses
If you’re injured, tell the officer you need medical attention, even if your symptoms seem minor. Some injuries, like whiplash or concussions, may not show up immediately.
2. Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Even if you feel “fine” after the accident, always get checked by a doctor. Some injuries—like concussions, internal bleeding, or soft tissue damage—may take hours or days to appear. Delaying treatment can hurt your health and your personal injury claim.
Where to Get Medical Care in Montgomery
If you need emergency care, visit:
- Baptist Medical Center South – 2105 E South Blvd, Montgomery, AL 36116
- Jackson Hospital – 1725 Pine St, Montgomery, AL 36106
For non-emergency injuries, consider urgent care centers such as:
- PriMed Physicians Urgent Care – Multiple locations in Montgomery
Why Medical Records Matter for Your Case
Insurance companies will use gaps in treatment against you to argue that your injuries aren’t serious. Getting medical attention right away helps establish:
- A clear link between the accident and your injuries
- Proper documentation to support your claim
- Proof of damages such as medical bills, prescriptions, and therapy
Ignoring medical treatment can make it harder to prove your injuries later. Follow your doctor’s recommendations, attend follow-up appointments, and keep all medical records.
3. Document the Accident Scene
Gathering evidence at the scene is one of the most important steps to protect your case. If you’re physically able, take the following steps before leaving:
What to Capture for Evidence
- Photos and Videos:
- Vehicle damage (yours and the other driver’s)
- Road conditions, skid marks, traffic signs
- Any visible injuries you or your passengers suffered
- License plates and make/model of the other vehicles
- Key Details to Write Down:
- The time, location, and weather conditions
- The names and contact info of all drivers involved
- Witness contact information
What If the Other Driver Refuses to Cooperate?
If the other driver avoids answering questions, refuses to provide insurance details, or acts aggressively, they may be uninsured or driving without a license. In these cases:
- Do not argue or confront them.
- Inform the responding police officer about their behavior.
- Let law enforcement handle the situation.
4. Common Accident Hotspots in Montgomery
Certain roads and intersections in Montgomery have higher accident rates, including:
- I-65 & I-85 Interchange – A high-traffic area with frequent crashes
- Eastern Blvd & Vaughn Rd – A busy commercial district prone to rear-end collisions
- Highway 231 & US 80 – A common location for serious truck accidents
If your crash happened in one of these areas, traffic cameras or nearby businesses may have footage that can support your case. A Montgomery car accident lawyer can help gather surveillance footage and witness statements if needed.
5. Notify Your Insurance Company (But Be Cautious)
After ensuring your safety and documenting the accident, notify your insurance company as soon as possible. Alabama law requires all drivers to carry minimum liability coverage, and insurers expect prompt reporting of accidents. However, be careful about what you say when speaking with insurance adjusters.
What to Say and What to Avoid
When reporting your accident:
- Stick to the facts – Provide only basic details about the accident (date, time, location, and parties involved).
- Do not admit fault – Even if you think you may have contributed to the crash, let the investigation determine liability.
- Avoid making statements about injuries – Some injuries take time to appear. Saying “I feel fine” could hurt your claim later.
- Do not accept a quick settlement – Insurance companies may offer a low settlement to close the claim quickly. Speak with an attorney before accepting any offer.
If the other driver’s insurance company contacts you, do not provide a recorded statement or discuss settlement terms without legal guidance. Their goal is to minimize their payout, not to help you recover fair compensation.
6. Alabama’s Contributory Negligence Rule: How It Affects Your Claim
Alabama follows a contributory negligence rule, which is one of the strictest negligence laws in the country. Under this rule, if you are found even 1% at fault for the accident, you may be completely barred from recovering compensation.
Why This Makes Legal Representation Critical
Because contributory negligence is so strict, insurance companies often try to shift partial blame onto the victim to deny compensation entirely. A skilled car accident attorney can help by:
- Gathering evidence to prove you were not at fault.
- Handling all communication with insurance companies to prevent them from using your words against you.
- Consulting accident reconstruction experts if liability is disputed.
- Ensuring that medical records and police reports support your claim.
Due to Alabama’s zero-tolerance fault laws, having a Montgomery car accident attorney on your side can make a significant difference in whether you receive compensation or walk away with nothing.
7. How a Montgomery Car Accident Lawyer Can Help You
Hiring an experienced car accident lawyer in Montgomery can protect your rights and maximize your claim. Many accident victims assume they can handle the insurance process alone, only to find themselves facing lowball settlement offers or outright denials.
What a Lawyer Can Do for You
- Investigate the accident thoroughly – Reviewing police reports, witness statements, and any available video footage.
- Handle all negotiations – Insurance companies will try to pay as little as possible. A lawyer ensures you get a fair settlement.
- Calculate the true value of your claim – This includes medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future costs related to your injury.
- Represent you in court if needed – If the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, your attorney can take the case to trial.
Why Choose Strickland & Kendall?
Strickland & Kendall has been serving Montgomery car accident victims for over 30 years, securing millions in settlements for injured clients. The firm stands out by:
- Offering free consultations 24/7 – No obligation to discuss your case.
- Traveling to meet clients – If you’re unable to come to the office, they can meet you at your home or hospital.
- No fees unless you win – You pay nothing upfront, and legal fees come from the final settlement or verdict.
8. Alabama Car Accident Laws You Should Know
Understanding state-specific laws can help you navigate your claim effectively.
Alabama’s Statute of Limitations
Alabama law sets a two-year statute of limitations for car accident claims. This means you have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. If you miss this deadline, you could lose your right to seek compensation.
Minimum Insurance Requirements in Alabama
All drivers in Alabama are required to carry at least:
- $25,000 in bodily injury liability per person
- $50,000 in bodily injury liability per accident
- $25,000 in property damage liability
If you are hit by an uninsured driver, you may need to file a claim through your own uninsured motorist coverage. A lawyer can help you understand your policy and explore all available compensation options.
9. Contact a Montgomery Car Accident Lawyer Today
The steps you take after a car accident can impact your ability to recover compensation. Insurance companies will look for any reason to reduce or deny your claim, and Alabama’s contributory negligence law makes it even harder to recover damages without strong legal representation.
At Strickland & Kendall, our experienced attorneys fight for the rights of accident victims in Montgomery and across Alabama. If you’ve been injured, don’t leave your case to chance—schedule a free consultation today.