5 Things You Must Do After You Are Injured in Alabama

Report the accident and request emergency medical services, if necessary. A police report can provide important documentation about the crash.

Photograph the vehicles, damage, accident scene, road conditions, and visible injuries. Get the other driver’s insurance information and contact information for any witnesses.

Get checked by a medical professional, even if you initially feel okay. Some car accident injuries may not become obvious until later.

The accident should be reported to your insurance company promptly, but be careful about what you say. Avoid admitting fault or giving a recorded statement without first speaking with your lawyer.

Immediately notify the property owner, store manager, landlord, or other responsible person. Ask that an incident report be completed.

Take photos or videos of what caused you to fall, such as a spill, uneven surface, broken step, poor lighting, or missing warning sign. These conditions can quickly be cleaned up, repaired, or changed.

Ask anyone who saw your fall or the dangerous condition for their name and contact information.

Get medical attention promptly and follow your doctor’s treatment recommendations. Keep records of your treatment and accident-related expenses.

Move to a safe location and call 911. Report the dog bite to the appropriate police, animal control, or local health authorities.

Get the owner’s name, address, phone number, and available information about the dog’s rabies vaccination. Never put yourself in danger trying to approach or restrain the dog.

Take photos of your injuries, the dog, and the location of the attack when possible. Continue photographing your injuries as they heal, especially if you develop scarring.

Wash the wound thoroughly and seek appropriate medical care. Dog bites can cause infections, scarring, nerve damage, and other serious injuries.

Obtain and keep copies of the death certificate and, when applicable, medical records, autopsy or coroner reports, police reports, and other official records related to your loved one’s death.

Save photographs, videos, messages, damaged property, insurance correspondence, and other evidence related to what happened. Get the names and contact information of witnesses, and do not discard or alter anything that could be important to the investigation.

Notify the appropriate insurance companies of the death or incident when necessary, but be careful about providing recorded statements, signing releases, or accepting a settlement. Collins Law can communicate with the insurance companies on your family’s behalf.

Under Alabama wrongful death law, a wrongful death action is generally brought by the personal representative of the deceased person’s estate. Collins Law can help your family understand this process and any special rules that may apply.