Being involved in a car accident can be a frightening and overwhelming experience. In the aftermath of a crash, knowing what steps to take to protect your health, safety, and legal rights is important. As a Mobile car accident attorney, we’ve helped many clients navigate this difficult situation. Here’s what you should do if you find yourself in a car accident in Mobile, Alabama.
Check for Injuries and Call 911
The first priority after any car accident is the health and safety of those involved. Check yourself and your passengers for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 911 right away to request emergency medical assistance. Even if injuries seem minor, it’s best to get checked out by a medical professional. Some car accident injuries, like whiplash or concussions, may not be immediately apparent.
If you are able to do so safely, check on the occupants of the other vehicle(s) involved as well. Alabama law requires you to render reasonable assistance to anyone who is injured, which includes calling for help.
Move to a Safe Location If Possible
If the accident is minor and the cars are driveable, move them to the shoulder of the road or a nearby parking lot. Leaving vehicles in the middle of the road can put you at risk of being hit by oncoming traffic. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers.
However, if the accident is more serious or the cars cannot be moved, leave them where they are and get yourself to a safe location away from traffic, such as the sidewalk or shoulder. It’s dangerous to stand near or between crashed vehicles, as they could be hit again by passing vehicles.
Call the Police to Report the Accident
Even if the accident seems minor, it’s important to call the Mobile police to report it. The responding officer will create an official accident report documenting what happened. This report can be valuable evidence if you later need to file an insurance claim or personal injury lawsuit.
When the police arrive, answer their questions honestly but stick to the facts of what happened. Avoid admitting fault or apologizing, as these statements could be used against you later. If you are unsure about any details, it’s okay to say you don’t know.
Exchange Information with the Other Driver(s)
Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver(s) involved in the crash. Be sure to get them:
- Full name
- Address
- Phone number
- Driver’s license number
- License plate number
- Insurance company name
- Insurance policy number
If there are witnesses to the accident, get their names and contact information as well. Witness statements can provide powerful support for your case if there is a dispute about how the accident happened.
Document the Accident Scene
If you are able to do so safely, take photos and videos to document the accident scene. Capture images of:
- Vehicle damage
- Accident location
- Skid marks
- Road conditions
- Weather conditions
- Nearby traffic signs or signals
- Visible injuries
Also, make a note of the date, time, and exact location of the accident. This documentation can serve as valuable evidence for your Mobile personal injury lawyer if you need to pursue an injury claim.
See a Doctor for a Full Medical Evaluation
Even if you don’t need emergency treatment at the accident scene, schedule an appointment with your doctor or visit an urgent care center for a full medical exam as soon as possible. Tell your provider you were in a car accident and describe any symptoms you are experiencing. Follow through on their treatment recommendations.
Some car accident injuries take time to fully present themselves. Seeking prompt medical care ensures your injuries are diagnosed, treated, and documented. Insurance companies may be skeptical of injuries that are not documented shortly after the accident, so getting timely treatment helps protect your health and your legal rights.
Notify Your Insurance Company
Report the accident to your own car insurance company as soon as possible. Most policies require prompt notification of crashes. However, keep this initial conversation brief. Simply let them know the accident occurred, but don’t go into details about how it happened or the extent of your damages until you’ve consulted with a Mobile car accident attorney.
The other driver’s insurance company may contact you to ask for a recorded statement. It’s best not to give a statement or accept any settlement offers until you’ve discussed your case with a lawyer. Insurance adjusters often use tactics to try to minimize payouts on accident claims. An experienced Mobile personal injury lawyer can communicate with the insurance company on your behalf and ensure your rights are protected.
Contact a Mobile Personal Injury Lawyer
If you were injured in a car accident, contact a personal injury attorney in Mobile to discuss your legal options. Many accident victims are entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other losses. However, obtaining total and fair compensation often requires navigating complex insurance and legal processes.
Look for a car accident attorney in Mobile who has specific experience with these types of cases. They can investigate your accident, gather evidence, handle communications with the insurance companies, and fight for the maximum compensation you deserve. Most personal injury attorneys offer free initial consultations and work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay unless they win your case.
Being in a car accident is always stressful, but knowing what steps to take afterward can help you protect your health, rights, and financial recovery. If you’ve been hurt in an auto accident in Mobile, Alabama, don’t hesitate to reach out to a skilled Mobile personal injury lawyer for guidance and advocacy.
