Were you injured in a car accident in Huntsville, AL? You may be wondering what to do next. Call Belt, Bruner & Barnett Personal Injury Lawyers today for help navigating the aftermath of your crash. Our Huntsville car accident lawyers can explain your rights during a free consultation.
We have 93 years of combined legal experience representing individuals and families injured in serious motor vehicle accidents throughout Alabama. We have recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for clients. Let us handle your case while you focus on your recovery.
Why Choose Belt, Bruner & Barnett to Handle My Car Accident Case in Huntsville, AL?
Car accident claims in Huntsville, Alabama, can come with intense financial stress and uncertainty about what to do next. Having experienced legal counsel can help alleviate your anxiety.
Clients choose Belt, Bruner & Barnett because:
- Our Huntsville car accident attorneys bring decades of combined experience handling complex personal injury and car accident cases.
- Members of our legal team have been recognized by the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum, The National Trial Lawyers Top 100 Trial Lawyers, and Best Lawyers.
- We have over 150 five-star Google reviews.
Call our Huntsville personal injury lawyers to schedule a free consultation.
What Should You Do After a Car Accident in Alabama?
Being involved in a car accident is a traumatic experience. In the aftermath, it can be difficult to think clearly. However, the steps you take immediately after a crash are crucial for your physical well-being and for preserving your right to fair compensation.
If you’ve been in a car accident anywhere in Alabama, here’s what you should do to protect yourself:
Step 1: Call 911 and Report the Accident
In Alabama, crashes involving injury or death should be reported to law enforcement right away. Calling 911 ensures that law enforcement and emergency responders report to the scene.
An official police report can play a critical role in an insurance claim or personal injury lawsuit.
These reports often include:
- Names and contact information of all parties
- Statements from drivers and witnesses
- Observations about road conditions and traffic signals
- Preliminary notes regarding how the accident occurred
You should cooperate with responding officers, but avoid admitting fault, apologizing, or speculating about what caused the crash.
Step 2: Exchange Information With Other Drivers
After ensuring safety and contacting emergency services, exchange information with the other driver(s).
Alabama drivers are required to carry minimum liability insurance, including:
- $25,000 for injury or death of one person
- $50,000 for injury or death of more than one person
- $25,000 for property damage
Drivers may also carry uninsured motorist coverage or other optional coverages, such as comprehensive and collision insurance.
Be sure to collect:
- Names and contact details
- Driver’s license numbers
- License plate numbers
- Insurance companies and policy numbers
- Vehicle makes and models
Keep conversations brief and factual. Do not argue or discuss fault, as this can hinder your claim later.
Step 3: Gather Evidence and Identify Witnesses
If you are physically able, you should document the scene as thoroughly as possible. Any evidence you collect after the accident can be invaluable for your personal injury claim.
Be sure to photograph or record:
- Vehicle damage
- Road, weather, and lighting conditions
- Skid marks
- Visible injuries
If there are witnesses, politely ask for their names and contact information. Independent witness testimony can corroborate your version of events.
Step 4: Seek Prompt Medical Attention
Always seek medical care as soon as possible after a car accident, even if you feel fine. Some injuries may not present symptoms right away but still require early diagnosis to facilitate a full recovery.
Prompt medical treatment protects your health and creates documentation linking your injuries to the accident.
Delaying care can give insurance companies grounds to dispute your claim.
Step 5: Consult With an Alabama Car Accident Attorney
Once you have received medical attention, you should speak with an experienced Huntsville car accident lawyer immediately.
An attorney can:
- Evaluate your claim and explain your legal options
- Investigate the accident independently
- Communicate with insurance companies on your behalf
- Identify all available sources of compensation
- Negotiate a fair settlement or prepare for trial
An experienced lawyer can help you avoid costly mistakes and improve your chances of recovering full compensation.
Contact Our Experienced Huntsville Car Accident Lawyers for a Free Consultation
No one expects to be involved in a car accident, but knowing how to respond can make a huge difference if you plan to file a personal injury claim. At Belt, Bruner & Barnett, our team has decades of experience helping injured Alabama residents recover the compensation they deserve.
Contact our office today for a free consultation. Our Huntsville car accident attorneys are ready to help you move forward.