What to Do If You Are in a Car Accident in Huntsville, Alabama: A Complete Guide
Car accidents can be disorienting, frightening, and overwhelming — especially when they happen close to home. If you’ve been in a car accident in Huntsville, Alabama, knowing what steps to take immediately after the crash can make all the difference in protecting your health, your rights, and your future.
At Ferguson & Ferguson, our experienced Huntsville car accident attorneys have helped countless clients navigate the complex aftermath of motor vehicle collisions. Whether you were in a minor fender bender on Memorial Parkway or a more serious crash on I-565, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Below is everything you need to know after a car accident in Huntsville, AL — from the scene of the crash to dealing with insurance and understanding your legal options.
1. Ensure Your Safety and Call 911
The first step after any auto accident is to ensure your safety and the safety of others involved. If possible, move your vehicle to a safe location away from traffic.
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Check for injuries and call 911 immediately. Even if the accident seems minor, it’s important to get a police report for insurance and legal purposes.
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Request medical attention, even if you don’t feel injured. Some injuries (like whiplash or internal trauma) may not show symptoms right away.
Pro Tip: In Alabama, it’s especially important to get a formal police report. Officers from the Huntsville Police Department or Alabama State Troopers will document the scene, which is crucial for your case.
2. Exchange Information with the Other Driver
Get the following details from all parties involved in the accident:
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Full name and contact information
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Driver’s license number
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License plate number
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Insurance company and policy number
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Vehicle make, model, and color
Do not admit fault — even saying “I’m sorry” can be used against you later. Just stick to the facts.
3. Document the Accident Scene
If you’re physically able, gather evidence at the scene. Use your smartphone to take:
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Photos of all vehicles involved (damage, license plates, location)
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Pictures of road conditions, skid marks, traffic signs, and weather
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A video walkthrough of the scene, if safe to do so
If there are any witnesses, get their names and contact information. Their accounts could be valuable later.
4. Seek Medical Attention Promptly
Even if you walked away feeling fine, you should still visit a doctor or emergency room in Huntsville. Injuries like concussions, whiplash, and internal bleeding may not appear for hours or even days.
Make sure to keep records of all treatments, diagnoses, prescriptions, and medical expenses. This documentation will be key in supporting your injury claim.
5. Report the Accident to Your Insurance Company
Notify your insurance provider about the accident as soon as possible. Be honest, but avoid providing a recorded statement until you speak with a qualified attorney.
Alabama follows a fault-based insurance system, which means the at-fault driver (or their insurance) is responsible for covering damages. But because Alabama is a contributory negligence state, if you’re found even 1% at fault, you may be barred from recovering any compensation.
6. Contact a Huntsville Car Accident Attorney
Navigating the aftermath of a crash in Alabama can be legally complex. That’s why it’s critical to consult with an experienced car accident lawyer in Huntsville, AL as soon as possible.
At Feguson & Ferguson, we offer free consultations to help you understand your legal rights. We can:
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Investigate your accident
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Gather critical evidence
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Deal with insurance companies on your behalf
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Maximize your compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more
We don’t get paid unless we win your case.
7. Avoid Common Mistakes After a Car Accident
To protect your case and your health, avoid these missteps:
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Don’t admit fault at the scene.
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Don’t skip medical treatment.
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Don’t post about your accident on social media.
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Don’t talk to the other driver’s insurance company without legal representation.
Local Resources in Huntsville, Alabama
Here are a few helpful contacts and resources in case you’re involved in an auto accident in the Huntsville area:
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Huntsville Police Department: (256) 722-7100
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Huntsville Hospital Emergency Room: 101 Sivley Rd SW, Huntsville, AL
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Madison County Courthouse: 100 Northside Square, Huntsville, AL
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Alabama Department of Insurance: https://www.aldoi.gov/
When to Call a Car Accident Lawyer in Huntsville, Alabama
If you were injured, if there’s a dispute about who was at fault, or if the insurance company is giving you a hard time — it’s time to call a lawyer.
At Ferguson & Ferguson, we’ve been serving the Huntsville community for 34 years and have helped thousands of clients get the compensation they deserve. We know Alabama law, and we know how to win.
Call Ferguson & Ferguson Today for a Free Consultation
Don’t navigate this alone. If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident in Huntsville, Alabama, call Ferguson & Ferguson at (256-534-3435) or contact us online to schedule your free case evaluation.
We’re here to fight for you — every step of the way.