Alabama Car Accident Laws

One of the easiest ways to understand how the legal process works when pursuing a car accident claim in Alabama is to review the laws that affect these claims. This quick guide from the dedicated Alabama car accident attorneys at Stokes Stemle covers many essential car accident laws you need to know about.

Alabama’s Fault-Based System Explained

Alabama follows a fault-based system for car accidents. That means the driver who causes the crash must pay for the damages. After an accident, injured victims can seek compensation by:

• Filing a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance company
• Filing a lawsuit directly against the at-fault driver
• Using their own coverage when the other driver lacks adequate insurance

Because Alabama uses this fault-based system, proving who caused the crash becomes crucial when you’re pursuing compensation. An experienced car accident lawyer will likely seek out police reports, witness interviews, photos and videos from the accident scene, surveillance footage, and expert testimony when establishing liability in a personal injury claim.

The Contributory Negligence Rule

Perhaps the most important of all Alabama personal injury laws is the pure contributory negligence rule. Under this rule, victims cannot obtain compensation for motor vehicle accidents if they are even 1 percent at fault for the collision.

Because of contributory negligence, insurance companies often try to deflect blame onto car accident victims. They will twist your statements or exaggerate your role in the accident if it means not having to give you any money. That’s why working with skilled car accident attorneys in Alabama who can counter these insurance company tactics is absolutely essential.

Key Car Accident Laws and Requirements in Alabama

Alabama law sets several important requirements with regard to vehicles and accidents:

• Insurance Minimums –⁠ Drivers must carry at least $25,000 in bodily injury coverage per person, $50,000 per accident, and $25,000 for property damage.
• Accident Reporting –⁠ You must report any accident involving injury, death, or over $250 in property damage to local police or the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA). Failing to do so can compromise your claim.
• Time Limits –⁠ You typically have two years from the date of the crash to file a personal injury lawsuit. Missing this deadline can mean losing your right to pursue compensation in court.

What to Do After a Car Accident in Alabama

To protect your safety and your legal rights after a car accident in Alabama, be sure to:

• Call 911 –⁠ Responding officers will create a crash report containing key details for building your case.
• Document the Scene –⁠ Take photos and videos of vehicle damage, accident debris, skid marks, traffic signs and signals, road and weather conditions, and visible injuries.
• Collect Witness Information –⁠ If anyone saw the accident, collect their names and contact information.
• Seek Medical Attention –⁠ Even if you feel fine, get to a healthcare provider as soon as possible. Your medical records will provide powerful evidence linking your injuries to the accident.
• Contact a Car Accident Lawyer –⁠ A skilled personal injury attorney can protect your rights and lead you through the entire legal process.

How Stokes Stemle Helps Car Accident Victims

The team at Stokes Stemle proudly protects the rights of car accident victims throughout Alabama. We offer a free case review, extensive experience, local insight, compassionate support, and aggressive advocacy as we fight to recover the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for your free consultation.