Best Car Accident Lawyers in Madison

FAQs

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

  For non-emergency concerns and incidents, you may the Madison County Sherriff’s Office at (256) 722–7181.

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

  Traffic accident reports are available three to five business days after the incident. You may get a copy in person at the Madison Police Department Records Division, located at 100 Hughes Road, Madison, AL 35758. You can also call 256-772-5685 to have a copy faxed or emailed to you.

• How long do you have to file a car accident lawsuit in Madison?

  Under the Code of Alabama Section 6-2-38, you must file car accident lawsuits within two years from the date of the crash. The deadline is shorter for government-involved lawsuits. You only have one year from the date of the accident to submit a notice of claim if a government employee or vehicle struck you or if the accident happened due to an unrepaired public road.

• Can you still get compensation if you are partly at fault for a car accident in Madison?

  Alabama uses the contributory negligence rule. If you are found to have contributed to the accident, you may be barred from claiming compensation. You must not admit fault or apologize at the crash scene, as insurance companies will use this to shift blame to you to avoid giving a settlement. It is recommended that you seek counsel from a car accident lawyer in Madison before speaking to insurance companies to protect your claim.

• Who pays for your damages after a hit-and-run in Madison?

  If the fleeing driver is identified and located, you can file a claim against their insurance policy to recover your damages. If the driver cannot be found, you have to file a claim on your own policy’s uninsured/underinsured motorist (UIM) insurance coverage. Nonetheless, you must still prove that the missing driver was at fault for the crash. A Madison car accident lawyer can help you build your case against the driver.

• How much do car accident lawyers in Madison charge?

  Car accident lawyers usually work on a contingency fee agreement. The lawyer collects payment only after they successfully recover compensation for the client. A percentage is collected from the client’s verdict award or insurance settlement as payment to the lawyer. The percentage should be expressed upfront and in writing according to the Alabama Rules of Professional Conduct. Car accident lawyers in Madison generally collect 33% to 40%

• What damages are recoverable after a drunk driving accident in Madison?

  DUI accident victims in Madison can recover compensatory and punitive damages. Compensatory damages include medical expenses, pain and suffering, and lost wages. Punitive damages are meant to discourage recklessness in road safety and punish the drunk driver by making them responsible for compensating the victim’s physical, financial, and emotional damages. The drunk driver may also face criminal penalties.

• 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.