The aftermath of car crash can be stressful and traumatic. If your crash happened while visiting another state, then the proper course of action may be difficult to determine. Typically, car accident cases should be filed in the states where the accidents at issue occurred.
Accordingly, if you were injured because of a car accident in Alabama, it is imperative that you seek guidance from our local attorneys. Our team can review your case and identify the appropriate path to compensation. Furthermore, we can build your claim and negotiate for the monetary damages you are owed.
Seek guidance and support from our Alabama car accident lawyers by calling Howe Law at (844) 876-4357.
How Our Attorneys Can Help After a Car Accident in Alabama
As previously mentioned, our Alabama personal injury attorneys are prepared to provide crucial assistance in the aftermath of a motor vehicle crash in our state. There are several reasons why you should contact our team quickly after your collision.
Familiarity with Alabama Laws
Our team possesses an in-depth understanding of Alabama’s specific laws and regulations related to car accidents. These laws can differ significantly from those in your home state and may affect how your case is handled and the potential outcomes.
Jurisdictional Expertise
Alabama has its own court system and legal procedures. Our local attorneys are well-versed in the nuances of the Alabama court system and can effectively represent your interests. We understand how to file a lawsuit in an Alabama court, which is essential for pursuing your case successfully.
Knowledge of Insurance Regulations
Insurance laws and regulations vary from one state to another. Fortunately, our lawyers have a comprehensive understanding of the insurance requirements and policies specific to Alabama. We can help you navigate insurance claims and negotiations effectively, ensuring that you receive the compensation you deserve.
Access to Local Resources
Furthermore, the team at our firm has access to a network of local resources, including accident reconstruction experts, medical professionals, and investigators who can provide valuable support for your case. This network can be instrumental in building a strong case and establishing liability.
Personalized Legal Representation
Finally, our legal team will provide you with personalized legal representation tailored to your specific case and needs. We will work closely with you to gather evidence, interview witnesses, and build a compelling argument on your behalf.
Other Steps to Take Immediately After Your Car Accident in Alabama
In addition to contacting our legal team, there are several other actions you should take in the immediate aftermath of your accident. Taking the following steps could speed up your recovery and improve your chances of acquiring compensation:
Remaining at the Scene and Contacting 911
In Alabama, it is imperative to remain at the scene of a car accident. Leaving the scene of an accident without calling the authorities can result in serious consequences.
Therefore, immediately after a car accident, the first step you should take is to call 911. This is crucial for ensuring the safety of all parties involved and obtaining prompt medical assistance if necessary. The police will also arrive to document the accident, which can be essential for insurance claims and legal proceedings.
Exchanging Information with Other Parties
After ensuring everyone’s safety and contacting the authorities, you should exchange information with the other parties involved in the accident. This information typically includes names, contact details, insurance information, and license plate numbers. This exchange of information is vital for the insurance claims process and any potential legal actions that may follow.
Documenting the Scene
While waiting for the police to arrive, it is advisable to document the accident scene as thoroughly as possible. You can do this by taking photographs of the vehicles involved, any visible damage, road conditions, traffic signs, and signals. These photographs can serve as crucial evidence in determining fault and liability in the aftermath of the accident.
Seeking Medical Attention for Unaddressed Injuries
Even if you initially feel fine, it’s essential to seek medical attention after a car accident. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent due to the shock and adrenaline rush that often accompanies accidents. Delayed symptoms can emerge, so it’s crucial to get a thorough medical evaluation to identify and address any injuries promptly. This medical documentation will also be valuable for insurance claims and legal proceedings.
Time Limit to File a Car Accident Lawsuit in Alabama
States’ statutes of limitations govern time limits for filing specific types of lawsuits. In Alabama, the time limit to file a car accident case is established by Ala. Code § 6-2-38.
Generally, you will have two years from the date of your car accident to bring your potential claim to court. Failure to act in accordance with this deadline could cause your case to be dismissed.
Even though you may have up to two years to file your potential lawsuit, you should still begin working on your case right away. Important evidence needed to support your claim may become difficult to collect or preserve over time. For instance, witnesses can forget crucial details and physical evidence can deteriorate. The sooner you get in touch with the team at our firm, the more effectively we can gather the information needed to win your case.
Alabama’s Contributory Negligence Rule
Courts in many other states adhere to a system of “modified comparative fault.” Under this system, damages in car accident cases are apportioned based on parties’ percentages of blame.
However, Alabama courts abide by the doctrine of “contributory negligence.” This means that if you are found to have played any role in causing your crash, then you will be unable to recover damages from another driver.
Defendants in Alabama car accident cases often try to shift blame in order to avoid paying for damages stemming from their collisions. Support from our team can be highly beneficial when seeking to discredit a defendant’s alternative theory of fault.
Call Our Car Accident Attorneys for Help with Your Case in Alabama
Seek assistance from our Birmingham car accident lawyers at Howe Law by dialing (844) 876-4357.
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