How is liability determined in an auto accident injury claim in Alabama?



Auto Accident Questions

Every year, countless individuals are involved in car accidents. In Alabama alone, the Department of Transportation reported that a traffic crash occurs every 200 seconds. Unfortunately, many of these accidents result in injuries requiring medical attention and legal assistance, especially when it's necessary to establish liability. This article is intended to help you understand how liability is determined within the state's legal framework in the event of an auto accident injury claim. If you or someone you know has been injured in an auto accident, it is beneficial to have such enlightenment before seeking legal representation.

Alabama Auto Accident Laws: Contributory Negligence

Alabama operates under a specific set of laws called "contributory negligence." This doctrine stipulates that if a party is found even 1% at fault for the accident, that party is barred from recovering damages. It's a stringent rule compared with the "comparative negligence" laws used in many other states, making it even more critical to prove that the other party was entirely at fault.

Knowing these nuances, it's clear that the determination of liability in auto accidents is a critical aspect of personal injury law in Alabama. An experienced and dedicated auto accident attorney such as Stephen Thompson is familiar with these regulations and can build a robust case to help victims navigate this complex legal landscape.

Assessing Fault through Evidence

Proving that you are not at fault in an Alabama auto accident can be challenging. In such cases, the collection and presentation of compelling evidence are crucial. After all, the party that presents the most persuasive evidence is more likely to prevail in a claim or lawsuit.

Evidence in this context can be of various types. It could include photographs from the accident scene, witness testimonies, medical records that establish a correlation between the accident and your injuries, and sometimes, expert testimonies.

For instance, accident reconstruction experts can use the available evidence to recreate the scene. Their expert opinion on how the collision occurred can have a significant impact on determining liability.

Looking for Answers About Your Accident?

Contact us for your FREE Case Evaluation and get the ANSWERS you're looking for.

The Role of Law Enforcement Reports

In most auto accident cases, a law enforcement officer arrives at the scene and makes a report based on their observations. These reports often contain important details about the accident, including the officer's professional opinion on who seemed to be at fault.

Although these reports are not the final word in establishing liability, they often hold substantial weight in court. Therefore, acquiring a copy of these reports can be a vital step in building your case.

After an auto accident, insurance companies conduct their investigations into the event. The determination made by insurance companies influences the payout that victims receive. However, these establishments have their interests to protect.

Therefore, it is advised to consult with a personal injury attorney before making statements to insurance adjusters. This is crucial as these statements can be used to diminish your claim or apply contributory negligence, thereby limiting your compensation or even denying it entirely.

Legal Advice and Representation from an Experienced Alabama Auto Accident Attorney

Determining liability in an auto accident injury claim in Alabama is a complex process. Given Alabama's stringent contributory negligence laws, it's all the more crucial to conclusively prove the fault of the other party.

At Stephen Thompson's Law Firm, we realize the importance of efficiently navigating this process. With in-depth knowledge and vast experience in dealing with Alabama's auto accident laws, we strive to represent your best interests and work diligently to build a compelling case in your favor.

No person should bear the burden of an auto accident caused by another’s negligence. If you need help handling an auto accident injury claim in Alabama, reach out to Stephen Thompson's Law Firm today. We are committed to advocating for clients rightfully, ensuring they receive the compensation they deserve.

Get the representation you need in these trying times. When involved in a car accident, the best search isn't merely for Alabama auto accident lawyers but for skilled, committed and compassionate legal guardians. Our firm is here to offer that support and expertise. Whether you're in Birmingham, Montgomery, Mobile or any location throughout Alabama, Stephen Thompson is the ‘auto accident attorney near me’ you need for the best outcomes. 

Remember, your choice of legal representation can make a significant difference in determining liability in auto accident injury claims. Partner with those who prioritize your interest and understand Alabama's unique laws. Start by reaching out to Stephen Thompson's Law Firm today. 

Contact us today at Stephen Thompson's Law Firm for a detailed understanding of your case or more information on Alabama auto accident injury claims!

Free Initial Strategy Session

All Initial Strategy Sessions are Free. If you would like to discuss your options, you are invited to fill out one of the Contact Forms. I will attempt to contact you if I think I can help you.

During your Initial Strategy Session, I will asist you in creating a strategy on how to best pursue your claim, whether it be the result of a Car Accident Claim, 18 Wheeler Injury, or, Alabama Workers' Compensation Claim. At your Initial Strategy Session, you will receive the following:

  • First - I will listen to your story. You will have a chance to tell everything to someone who wants to hear what happened to you.
  • Based on the information that you provide, I will give you my best advice on both what claims you have, and the next steps you should consider to proceed with your claim(s).
  • If your claim is something that I think I can help you with, I will explain the services that I can provide for you, and what the next steps are that we should take. We will start working immediately.
  • If your matter is something that I do not think I can help you with, then I will attempt to put you in contact with another lawyer that might be able to help you.
  • Either way, what should happen is we will put to rest some of the unkowns that you may be experiencing. We will start to shed some light on what you can expect, and how to best pursue the benefits you deserve.


Don't delay getting the recovery you deserve! Contact us today for your free Strategy Session!

-How Can I Help?-

-Information Center-
-Common Questions-
-Types of Injuries-