What to Do After a Car Wreck in Alabama

By Paul A. Seckel, JD, MBA | Guntersville Law, LLC | Updated 2025

A car wreck can happen in an instant, leaving you hurt, shaken, and unsure of what to do next. What you do in the moments following a crash can make all the difference — for your safety, your health, and your ability to recover fair compensation.

At Guntersville Law, LLC, I help car accident victims throughout Marshall County, Etowah County, Madison County, Blount County, and surrounding areas protect their rights and recover what they deserve. My firm proudly serves clients in Guntersville, Albertville, Arab, Boaz, Huntsville, Gadsden, Oneonta, and all across North Alabama.

📞 Call me, Attorney Paul Seckel, today at (256) 571-1529 to schedule your FREE consultation.
You pay nothing to discuss your case — just clear, practical advice on how to protect your rights and move forward.

1. Stay Calm and Stay at the Scene

After a crash, take a breath and stay composed. Do not leave the scene — doing so can result in criminal penalties. Stay safe, and avoid making any statements that could be used against you later, such as admitting fault or apologizing.

Keep your focus on safety and gathering the facts.

2. Call 911 and Get Medical Help

Always call law enforcement immediately after the accident. Police officers will secure the scene, take statements, and prepare an official accident report — a vital piece of evidence for your insurance claim or potential lawsuit.

Even if you don’t feel hurt right away, get checked by a doctor or go to the emergency room. Many serious injuries — like whiplash, concussions, or internal trauma — may not appear until hours or days later. Medical documentation ensures your injuries are properly treated and verified.

3. Exchange Information

Under Alabama Code § 32-10-2, all drivers involved in a collision must exchange:

• Full name and address

• Driver’s license number

• Vehicle registration

• Insurance information

If anyone is injured, you must provide or help arrange transportation for medical care.

4. Document the Accident Scene

If you can do so safely, gather as much evidence as possible before leaving the scene.

• Take photos and videos of the vehicles, road conditions, traffic signs, and any visible injuries.

• Collect witness contact information.

• Note the officers’ names and badge numbers.

• Write down details like weather conditions, traffic flow, and lighting.

Keep all medical bills, repair estimates, and insurance correspondence. The more documentation you have, the stronger your case will be.

5. Notify Your Insurance Company

You must report the wreck to your insurance company promptly — it’s required by Alabama law. But remember: insurance companies often look for ways to minimize your payout.

Before speaking to an adjuster or signing anything, call me first. I’ll handle communication with the insurance companies to protect your rights and ensure you’re treated fairly.

6. Contact Attorney Paul Seckel at Guntersville Law, LLC

Don’t face insurance companies or the legal process alone. I’ve helped clients across Marshall County, Madison County, Blount County, Etowah County, and the entire North Alabama region recover fair compensation for their injuries, medical expenses, and lost wages.

When you contact me, I will:

• Investigate your accident and preserve key evidence;

• Deal directly with the insurance company on your behalf;

• Negotiate aggressively for maximum compensation; and

• Take your case to trial if a fair settlement isn’t offered.

I know how stressful the aftermath of a car accident can be. My goal is to take that burden off your shoulders so you can focus on healing and recovery.

Take Action Now — Free Consultation

Every day you wait makes it harder to gather evidence and protect your rights. Don’t delay. Get the help you need from an experienced personal injury attorney who knows Alabama law and cares about your future.

📞 Call me, Attorney Paul Seckel, today at (256) 571-1529 for your FREE consultation.
I’ll review your case, explain your legal options, and help you take the right next steps — at no cost to you.

Guntersville Law, LLC — Proudly serving accident victims across North Alabama, including Guntersville, Albertville, Arab, Boaz, Huntsville, Gadsden, and Oneonta.