Is It Possible To File a Claim Without a Police Report?
Ideally, it is best to call 911 after a car accident in Birmingham to file a police report. However, if you had a minor accident, you may have exchanged information with the other driver without calling the police.
If so, you can still file a claim without a police report, but it could make receiving a fair insurance settlement more challenging. An experienced car accident lawyer can help you pursue a claim.
Alabama Requirements for Reporting Car Accidents to the Police
Alabama Code §32-10-01 requires drivers to stop and remain at an accident scene until they fulfill their duties under Section 32-10-2. Under §32-10-2, drivers have a duty to provide information to the other parties involved in the accident and render aid.
The law also requires drivers to notify local law enforcement whenever an accident results in injury or death. The notice is to be given by the quickest means possible. Generally, the quickest way to report a car accident in Alabama is to call 911.
Additionally, the law requires drivers involved in accidents to file a Form SR-13 with the Alabama Department of Public Safety if anyone is injured, killed, or has property damage of $250 or more. The report must be filed within 30 days. If the crash caused a death, injuries, or more than $500 in property damage by an uninsured driver, you must file a Form SR-31 with the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency.
Even if you do not think a car accident caused physical injuries or more than $250 in property damage, it is generally wise to report the crash to the police. Vehicles may sustain more damage than is apparent at the accident scene. Victims often realize their aches and pains after a car accident are symptoms of an injury. Therefore, it is best to be safe and report the crash.
What Happens if I Don’t Report a Car Accident in Alabama?
If you do not report a car crash to the police, you risk hurting any personal injury claim you may file. The other driver may deny that they were involved in an accident with you. The other driver may also say you caused the crash when they were at fault. Having a police report could help you refute these claims.
You must also report the crash to your insurance company. Your insurance company may deny coverage if you do not report the accident as soon as possible.
Failing to report a traffic accident as required by law can result in fines and a suspended driver’s license. If you leave the scene of an accident (i.e., hit and run), you could face jail time.
What Should I Do After a Car Accident in Birmingham, AL?
The steps to take after a car accident include:
Report the Accident to the Police
Pull over to a safe location whenever possible and call 911. Give the operator as much information as possible regarding your location and injuries. The emergency operator dispatches the appropriate law enforcement agency and emergency responders.
Document the Accident Scene
If you can do so without causing further injury or danger to yourself or others, photograph the accident scene and make a video using your cell phone. Ask witnesses to provide you with their names and contact details.
Avoid Admitting Fault
When the police officers arrive, they will investigate the accident. They speak with each driver and may talk with witnesses.
When dealing with the police after a car accident, it is crucial that you do not assume fault. You should give the officers the facts as you know them and avoid making assumptions about fault. Avoid saying you are sorry or making other statements that imply fault.
Obtain Medical Care
Seek immediate medical treatment for your injuries. Delays in medical care could jeopardize your health. It could also lead to problems with your personal injury claim.
Report the Crash to the Insurance Company
When you report the car accident to the insurance company, do not agree to provide a recorded statement without speaking with an attorney first. Do not speculate about fault for the accident.
Insurance companies protect their best interests. They try to avoid liability for claims if possible. Therefore, the company may try to shift the blame for the accident to you or allege that your injuries are not as severe as you claim. Allowing an attorney to handle communications with the insurance company can be in your best interest.
Contact a Car Accident Attorney for a Free Consultation
If another driver caused your car accident, you could receive a settlement for your economic and non-economic damages. Schedule a free consultation with a car accident lawyer today to discuss your case. An attorney can explain your legal options for pursuing a claim.
Contact the Alabama Car Accident Attorneys at Belt, Bruner & Barnett Personal Injury Lawyers.
Contact an experienced car accident lawyer at Belt, Bruner & Barnett Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a free initial consultation today. We serve Shelby County, Madison County, Montgomery County in Alabama, and its surrounding areas.
We are located in Birmingham, Huntsville & Montgomery.
Belt, Bruner & Barnett Personal Injury Lawyers – Birmingham Office
880 Montclair Road, Ste 300,
Birmingham, AL 35213
(205) 973-6417
Belt, Bruner & Barnett Personal Injury Lawyers – Huntsville Office
116 Jefferson St. Suite 207
Hunstville, AL, 35801
(256) 781-9242
Or find us with our GeoCoordinates: 34.73050852442579, -86.5863926515444
Belt, Bruner & Barnett Personal Injury Lawyers – Montgomery Office
7 Clayton St, Suite 200,
Montgomery, AL 36104
(334) 518-6098
Or find us with our GeoCoordinates: 32.373594220209505, -86.3092041262694