The Alabama Department of Transportation reports nearly 150,000 automobile accidents statewide each year—almost one in three resulting in a reportable injury. Even the safest drivers can be involved in a serious crash. If you’ve been in a wreck, you might be asking: Do accidents go on your Alabama driving record? The short answer: Yes. In Alabama, any reported crash—regardless of fault—will appear on your driving record. Below, our Mobile, AL car accident lawyer explains what you need to know about driving records, how accidents are reported, and why it matters for you.
Car Accidents & Your Alabama Driving Record
If you’ve been in a crash in Mobile or anywhere in South Alabama, it’s natural to wonder if it will end up on your record. Here’s the key takeaway: Any accident reported to law enforcement or your insurance company is likely to appear on your Alabama Motor Vehicle Record (MVR). This is true even if you were not at fault. Your MVR tracks your driving history, including collisions, citations, and other license-related actions. It’s an official state record that can be accessed by law enforcement, insurers, employers, and sometimes courts—and it can impact your insurance rates and driving privileges.
The Role of the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA)
The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) is responsible for maintaining driver records. There are two main types: a three-year driving history, which shows recent violations and accidents, and a full abstract, which shows your complete driving history. These records are used by insurance companies to set rates, by employers during background checks, and sometimes in legal cases involving your driving background.
Not at Fault? Your Accident May Still Appear on Your Record
Just because an accident appears on your Alabama driving record doesn’t mean you were responsible. For example, if you were rear-ended at a red light in Mobile by a distracted driver, the crash will likely still appear on your MVR—even if you were found completely blameless. In many cases, the record will include notes about fault. If you believe your record contains incorrect information, you can request a correction by providing documentation such as a police report or an insurance company statement. A skilled Mobile, AL car accident lawyer can help navigate this process.
Protecting Your Rights After a Crash
Your driving record is more than just a list of incidents—it can affect your insurance premiums, your ability to drive for work, and even your reputation as a driver. If you have questions about how an accident may affect your Alabama driving record or believe there’s an error, it’s important to speak with an attorney who understands both traffic law and insurance practices in Alabama.
Contact a Mobile, AL Car Accident Lawyer Today
At Roger Varner Injury Law, we fight for the rights of car accident victims in Mobile and throughout South Alabama. Whether you’re dealing with injuries, an insurance dispute, or questions about your Alabama driving record, we can help. Call us at (833) 482-7637 or contact us online for a free, no-obligation consultation. From our Mobile office, we proudly serve clients across the region.