Best Car Accident Lawyers in Huntsville

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Huntsville, Alabama?

  Dial (256) 722-7100 to reach the Huntsville police station.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Huntsville, Alabama?

  You can get a police report by visiting the Huntsville Police Records Division in person. Provide a valid ID and information on the accident number, date, and location. The cost is $10 and payable through credit card, cash, and check payable to the city of Huntsville. Allow 72 hours for report processing. Call 256-427-7020 for more information.

• What is the statute of limitations for a car crash in Huntsville?

  As per Alabama state laws, car accident victims in Huntsville are given two years to file lawsuits in court. The time usually starts on the date the injury occurred. After the 2-year deadline expires, there is a big possibility that the court will dismiss any lawsuit filed during this time no matter how strong the case is.

• Why should a car injury victim in Huntsville consult a lawyer before talking to insurance companies?

  It is better for an injured person to consult a lawyer because there is a possibility that the insurance company will pressure the victim into a lowball settlement offer. The insurance representative might also put blame on the victim which is detrimental to the recovery of compensation given that the state's contributory negligence law prohibits those with fault to be compensated.

• How can an individual secure compensation after being hit by an uninsured driver in Huntsville?

  A car accident victim of an uninsured driver in Huntsville can get compensation through his/her policy's uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage (UM/UIM). State laws require companies selling insurance products to automatically provide UM/UIM coverage even if the insurance buyer does not request it. Additionally, the buyer can refuse the UM/UIM coverage by signing a written waiver.

• Which roads in Huntsville have the most number of crashes?

  1. Highway 431, which stretches over 353 miles and passes through Huntsville, is considered one of the most dangerous roads in the country earning the nickname Highway to Hell.
  2. Highway 72 is a busy road that has had many car crashes through the years according to local news and social media reports.
  3. Patton Road is a serious crash-prone area specifically which has caused several people to express concerns about the safety of the road configuration on 2700-2706.

• What are the avenues of compensation for a car accident victim in Hunstville?

  Individuals who are not at fault and get injured in car crashes in Hunstville can seek compensation for economic and non-economic losses by:

  1. Pursuing a claim against the at-fault driver's insurance company.
  2. Taking matters to court through a personal injury lawsuit.
  3. Filing a claim with their own insurance company.

• How do I choose a car accident lawyer?

  To select a car accident lawyer, consider the lawyer's experience, focus, and reputation. While nearly any attorney can negotiate with insurers for a settlement, not all attorneys have amassed experience litigating a claim in a court of law. Choose an attorney with a background that includes car accident claimants; it's helpful if the attorney is focused on personal injury law. Lastly, read reviews from previous clients to get a feel for the attorney's helpfulness and responsiveness to clients. The best lawyer for your case is one that you feel comfortable and confident working with.

• What steps should I take after a car accident?

  Immediately following a car accident, get out of traffic as soon as possible and dial 9-1-1. Exchange car insurance information with any other involved drivers and get a police report as soon as possible. Be truthful about what happened, even if you are at fault, but stick to reporting the facts of the accident without offering an opinion on who is to blame. If possible, take photos of your car, other cars at the scene, and the scene itself.

• (When) Do I need a lawyer after a car accident?

  Start working with a car accident lawyer as soon as possible following your car accident (some attorneys even make hospital visits). By reaching out for legal help early on, you avoid some of the pitfalls of trying to handle your claim on your own. Your attorney can also get the ball rolling on reimbursement for your medical bills and lost wages while awaiting the outcome of your claim.

• How long after a car accident can you claim an injury?

  The length of time you can file a claim for an injury following a car accident is governed by the statute of limitations in your state. Although it varies, most states set the statute of limitations for injured parties to seek compensatory damages at three years following the accident or three years after you discover your injuries. In cases where children are injured, the statute of limitations may be longer.

• What do I do after a car accident that I'm not responsible for?

  After an accident that's not your fault, seek immediate medical help if you are injured. Once it's safe to do so, obtain the other driver's contact and insurance information, any statements from witnesses, and photos of the scene. Obtain a police report and contact your insurer and the at-fault party's insurer. If you are injured, schedule a consultation with a car accident attorney to discuss your legal options.

• What happens if someone sues you after a car accident?

  If you have car insurance in force at the time of the accident, your insurance is contractually bound to represent you on any claims that arise, indemnifying you against loss up to the limits of your policy. You can help your insurance company by cooperating fully. If the plaintiff in any lawsuit obtains a judgment above your policy limits, then you can be held personally responsible for any damages awarded.

• What/how much can I expect from a car accident settlement?

  According to the Insurance Information Institute, the average bodily injury claim in 2018 was $15,785. The amount of any particular car accident settlement hinges primarily on the severity of the injuries sustained as a result and whether or not any partial or total permanent disability was caused by the accident. Claims that involve broken bones or nerve damage likely settle for more than claims where soft tissue injuries are present.

• How do I arrange a rental car after an accident?

  To arrange a rental car after an accident, first consider whether your insurance or the other party's insurance will be paying for the rental. If another driver is found to be at-fault for the accident, that driver's insurance may pay the costs. If you are responsible, your insurance may pay if your policy covers such expenses. Speak with your insurance adjuster to determine if you have benefits available.

• How long does it take for car insurance to go back down after an accident?

  Post-accident rate spikes can last anywhere from three to five years, depending on your insurer. However, if damages incurred during the accident are less than $2,000, your rate may not go up at all. Three years is typical for collision and property damage claims. Five years is not uncommon in accidents involving bodily injury claims, DUI or DWI, reckless driving, or serious violations at the time of the accident.

• How to settle a car accident claim without a lawyer?

  To negotiate a car accident settlement without a lawyer, you'll have to prove that the other party was to blame for your damages. Gather evidence at the scene to support your claim, including witness statements and photos. Seek medical treatment for your injuries immediately. Notify the other driver's insurer of your intent to file a claim. If you reside in a no-fault state, you will need to use your personal injury protection (PIP) benefits first before filing a claim against the other party for medical expenses and bodily injury. Be prepared with medical records, police reports, receipts for out-of-pocket accident-related costs, and proof of lost income due to the accident before beginning negotiations.