Car accidents can happen to anyone. According to the Alabama Department of Transportation, more than 143,000 motor vehicle collisions were reported statewide in 2023. If you’ve been involved in a crash, what you do in the moments and days afterward can make or break your injury claim. Acting quickly protects your rights, preserves crucial evidence, and helps you recover the compensation you deserve. Below, our Mobile, AL car accident lawyer explains the key steps you should take immediately after a collision.
Step 1: Stop Your Vehicle and Call the Police
Under Alabama law, you must stop after any crash—no exceptions. Call 911 or contact local or state law enforcement so officers can respond to the scene. The police report is one of the most important pieces of evidence in any car accident case. It documents what happened, notes witness statements, and can help prevent the other driver from making false claims or avoiding accountability. Always report the crash and wait for an officer to arrive.
Step 2: Seek Immediate Medical Care for Any Injuries
Not all crash-related injuries are immediately obvious. Conditions like concussions, internal bleeding, and soft tissue damage may take hours or days to show symptoms. Get a medical evaluation as soon as possible—even if you feel “fine” in the moment. In Alabama, delays in treatment can hurt your personal injury claim, giving the insurance company an excuse to downplay or deny your case. Prompt care protects both your health and your legal rights.
Step 3: Document the Scene of the Collision
Alabama follows a fault-based car accident system, meaning the driver who caused the crash is financially responsible. That makes evidence critical. If it’s safe, take clear photos of all vehicles involved, visible damage, road conditions, and any skid marks or debris. Gather names and contact information from witnesses. The more evidence you collect, the stronger your Mobile car accident claim will be.
Step 4: Notify Your Insurance Provider
You should report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. You don’t need to provide a detailed statement right away—especially if you haven’t spoken with a lawyer—but make sure your insurer is aware the crash occurred. This protects your ability to use your coverage if needed and helps avoid delays in processing your claim.
Step 5: Speak to a Lawyer Before Giving a Recorded Statement
Insurance adjusters are trained to protect their company’s bottom line—not your best interests. A recorded statement given too soon could be used against you, reducing or even eliminating your payout. Before speaking to the at-fault driver’s insurer—or even your own—it’s wise to consult an experienced Mobile, AL car accident lawyer. Your attorney can handle communications, protect your rights, and work to maximize your compensation.
Contact a Mobile, AL Car Accident Lawyer Today
At Roger Varner Injury Law, we know the aftermath of a crash can be overwhelming. Our Mobile car accident attorney provides aggressive, results-driven representation for victims across South Alabama. If you’ve been injured in a collision, we’re here to guide you every step of the way—from gathering evidence to negotiating with insurers to fighting for you in court if necessary. Call (833) 482-7637 or contact us online for a free consultation.