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Real answers from experienced Alabama car accident personal injury attorneys. Know your rights.
The first steps you take can make or break your claim
Yes. If you have been in a car accident of any kind, you should call the police immediately, even if the accident initially appears to be minor. Often injuries are not immediately apparent at the accident scene, but later worsen in the hours, days, and weeks after an accident.
It is always better to call law enforcement and report the accident as soon as possible at the accident scene to prove that the accident occurred and to help show who was at fault in causing the accident.
You should document or record the following information as soon as possible after a car accident:
Yes. You should take pictures of all vehicles involved in the accident as soon as you reasonably can — from the accident scene to the details of the damage to any of the vehicles. If your body shows physical signs of trauma, you should also take pictures of your injuries.
The more record keeping the better. Recording this information will help you more accurately recall the details of your accident and will help document the facts and circumstances in cases where there may be a dispute as to what occurred.
Immediately after an accident you should assess whether you have sustained any injuries. If your injuries involve any form of head trauma or "whiplash" forces to your head or neck areas, or if you are not sure of the extent of your injuries, you should immediately call 911 and go to the hospital for assessment by medical professionals.
Alabama follows a pure contributory negligence rule. This means that if an insurance company or jury finds you were even 1% at fault for the accident, you may be completely barred from recovering any compensation at all. This is one of the harshest rules in the country — and it is exactly why insurance companies aggressively look for any reason to blame you. Contact an attorney immediately before speaking with any insurance adjuster.
Don't do it — here's why
Despite what insurance representatives sometimes imply, nothing requires you to give the negligent driver's insurance company a recorded statement to resolve your property damage or injury claim.
The only reason the negligent driver's insurance company wants to record your conversation is so they can later use some or all of your statements against you to offer you less money in settlement — or, under Alabama's contributory negligence rule, to deny your claim entirely. They will use your recorded statements to:
Giving a recorded statement to them never benefits you and can only harm your claims.
In many ways. Insurance adjusters often seek recorded statements within hours or days of an accident — before you know the full extent of your injuries. When asked early on if they are injured, many people answer with something like "I'm a little sore, but I think I'm OK."
Then the following day — or days later — they suddenly feel like they've "been hit by a truck" and can hardly get out of bed. What seemed like minor soreness may turn out to be a herniated disc or other long-term injury requiring expensive, life-long medical care.
The recorded statement you gave immediately after the accident no longer describes your current condition. The negligent driver's insurer will say that it does — and use it to minimize what they pay you.
They may sound friendly and helpful, but their job is to pay you as little as possible — and in Alabama, to find any basis to claim you were partially at fault so they can deny your claim entirely. Do not give a recorded statement to the other driver's insurance company without first speaking to an attorney. The consultation is always free at Dean & Camper.
How your property damage claim works
If you have "collision" coverage, you have two options: (1) go through your own insurance company, or (2) go through the insurance company for the negligent driver. It is usually easier to go through your own insurance company.
Your insurance company will be reimbursed for whatever they pay from the negligent driver's insurer — they are merely advancing the vehicle compensation payments. If you do not have collision coverage, you must wait for the negligent driver's insurer to accept liability and go through them.
Yes. Most collision coverages have a deductible ranging from $500 to $2,000. If your insurance doesn't waive the deductible, and you actually incur the deductible expense, the negligent driver's insurer will later reimburse you for that deductible amount when they reimburse your insurer.
If the negligent driver's insurance company is promptly accepting responsibility, you can go through them. However, the at-fault driver's insurer usually needs to see the full crash report and speak with their insured before accepting responsibility. The actual crash report typically takes anywhere from 2–10 days to be completed by the investigating officer. Most people can't go without transportation during that time.
Further, if the negligent driver's property damage coverage isn't enough to cover your damages, your collision coverage will still pay the full value — and it will be the insurer, not you, who is left less than fully compensated.
Your property damage claim is your claim against the negligent driver's insurance company for the damage to your vehicle and any other property damaged in the accident.
Your bodily injury claim is your claim for your physical injuries. The negligent driver's insurer usually assigns a different adjuster for your property damage than for your bodily injury claim — so you should be assigned both a property damage adjuster and a bodily injury adjuster.
No, not at all. Your property damage claim and injury claim are completely separate. Unlike your injury claim, there rarely is much an attorney can do to get you more compensation for your vehicle than what you can get on your own.
If your vehicle is repairable, the insurance company will pay for the repairs and provide a rental car while your vehicle is being repaired. If your vehicle was a total loss, the insurance company will estimate its value based on make, model, mileage, and condition. Make sure the total loss estimate reflects your vehicle's actual options and accessories.
Yes. Your car and injury claims are separate and independent. When speaking with the property damage adjuster, however, avoid letting any adjuster record your conversation (they must ask permission first), and never discuss your injuries without an attorney present.
Your property damage claim for the damage to your car is usually resolved within 1–3 weeks after the accident. Determining the full extent of your injuries and the amounts of your medical bills usually takes considerably longer.
Understanding bodily injury claims and Alabama insurance coverage
Yes. Not going to the emergency room immediately does not eliminate your claim. However, it is always recommended you seek medical treatment promptly to have your injuries documented by a medical professional.
The type and amount of compensation depends on the nature of the accident and the extent of your injuries. Recoverable damages include:
Alabama applies a rule called pure contributory negligence. Under this rule, if you are found to be even 1% at fault for the accident, you may be completely prevented from recovering any compensation from the other driver — even if they were 99% at fault.
This makes Alabama's contributory negligence rule one of the strictest in the country. It is one of only a handful of states that still applies this rule. Because of this, insurance companies for the at-fault driver will look for any evidence — including things you say in a recorded statement — to assign you even partial blame and deny your entire claim.
This is why it is absolutely critical to consult with an experienced Alabama car accident attorney before speaking with any insurance company after an accident.
Alabama requires all registered vehicles to carry a minimum of $25,000 per person / $50,000 per accident in bodily injury liability insurance, plus $25,000 in property damage liability coverage (often written as 25/50/25). This is the minimum required — many drivers carry higher limits.
However, even though BI insurance is required in Alabama, not every driver actually maintains adequate coverage. This is why uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM) coverage remains critically important.
In Alabama, the negligent driver is personally responsible for the injuries and damages they cause. If the driver was acting within the scope of their employment at the time of the accident, their employer's bodily injury insurance may also apply. It is important to determine the bodily injury coverage limits of all potentially applicable insurance policies — the driver and any employer — before ever considering any settlement.
While you are always entitled to bring a claim against the at-fault driver, actually collecting money from them is — as a practical matter — almost always limited to the amount of available insurance. When the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured, your own uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM) coverage is often the only practical way to be fully compensated for your injuries and losses.
In a hit-and-run situation, your UM coverage also applies, making it an essential protection for Alabama drivers.
In Alabama, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims — including car accident injuries — is two (2) years from the date of the accident. If you do not file a lawsuit within that two-year window, your claim will generally be barred forever.
Do not wait. Evidence disappears, witnesses forget details, and insurance companies use delay to their advantage. The sooner you contact an experienced attorney, the better protected your rights will be.
Essential protection for Alabama drivers
UM/UIM insurance is an optional coverage in Alabama that compensates you, your resident family members, and any passengers in your vehicle for car accident damages caused by a driver who either does not have car insurance, or does not carry enough to pay the full amount of the damages caused.
UM insurance is the only automobile insurance coverage available to compensate you and your family for damages in the unfortunate event you or a member of your family are the victim of an uninsured or underinsured driver.
Although Alabama requires bodily injury insurance, many drivers carry only the state minimum — $25,000 per person — which can be far too little to cover serious injuries, long-term medical care, or lost wages. If your damages exceed the at-fault driver's policy limits, your own UM/UIM coverage pays the difference. Ask your agent about increasing your UM limits — it is typically very affordable and can make all the difference when it matters most.
Free consultation — no fees unless we win
Everyone injured in a motor vehicle accident because of the fault of another needs to consult with an experienced car accident personal injury attorney — and the sooner the better. The consultation is completely free, and delaying in making the call can often significantly affect your legal rights.
In Alabama, this is especially true because of the state's contributory negligence rule. Insurance companies know that if they can find any reason to assign you even partial blame, they may owe you nothing. You need an attorney who understands Alabama law from day one to protect your claim. An experienced attorney will:
Nothing. At Dean & Camper Injury Lawyers, we never charge any fees or costs unless we win. That means you will never pay us anything out-of-pocket. We pay you when we get you a money recovery on your injury claim.
If in the unlikely event we don't get you a money recovery on your injury claim, you won't owe us anything — regardless of how much time, effort, or expense we put into your claim.
Our attorneys are available 24/7. Call any office or use our online form. No fees unless we win your case.
Real Google reviews from real Gulf Coast clients.
Shane is fantastic! He. Does. Not. Sleep. Works his tail off to take care of his clients. I recommend him to everyone.
Chad went above and beyond and settled our case within 6 months and it was 6 figures. He fights for his clients and does a great job — love his assistant Amber too. Thanks guys!
I used Shane for a car accident I was involved in. He got me more money than I thought I would get and I feel like he represented me fantastic! I wouldn't hesitate to use him again or refer him.
Chad and Amber were amazing. They were in contact with me throughout the entire process. They far exceeded my expectations on every level. If you need a personal injury attorney, this is the one for you!
These are the attorneys you want on your side! My settlement was much larger than I expected, every call and email I sent was promptly returned. My Attorney, Shane Dean, was excellent to work with.
We had a wonderful experience working with Chad. The communication and follow up was wonderful, and we were very happy with our outcome! I would highly recommend this office.
Every one at the firm was extremely helpful throughout the whole process. They explained everything in detail and made sure to keep me updated! I highly recommend; they were great to work with!
Chad has his client's best interest at heart and has exceeded all my expectations. I would strongly recommend this law firm — you won't regret it.
Such an amazing team! They worked relentlessly to get me a settlement and never gave up! Chad was always 100% honest and always gave me the choice on any decision regarding the case. Truly an amazing attorney.
Answer calls promptly, keeps in touch — heck, one time Mr. Camper even gave me a ride to get my flat tire fixed! That's the kind of attorney he is.
Shane Dean seen my case through, thoroughly advised me along the way, promptly returned my calls from start to finish, & it felt more like I had a friend on my side sticking up for me!
I highly recommend Dean & Camper. Chad and his staff made sure I knew what was going on at all times. Most importantly, he cares about his clients’ health and their well being.
Great law firm! I’m grateful I found them.
Shane is awesome. He makes the process easy and personal. Highly recommend him.
Shane Dean was a wonderful attorney and the best one I’ve ever dealt with. He was patient, professional, and quick to respond.
I had a great experience working with this law firm on my injury case. They were professional, communicative, and made the process smooth and stress-free. I’m really happy with the outcome. I highly recommend them.
Calling Shane Dean was the best decision I could’ve made for my case.
Shane & the team helped me with a recent accident. Great working with them, and happy with the settlement.
Mr. Dean and his staff did a great professional job and got me and my family the settlement we deserve in less than 6 months! I really recommend him and his team.
If anyone needs a good lawyer he’s the best in town because he wins.
He is the best attorney I have ever had. Mr. Shane gets back to you as soon as he can, tells you the deal, and gets straight to the business. I will always go to him.
If you’re in need of a good lawyer, I recommend Shane Dean. Shane made sure that I received the best results with my case.
Dean and Camper will do a great job for you if you’re injured in a car accident. They have handled two cases of mine and I have been highly satisfied both times.
It was honestly so great to have Dean & Camper P.A. working on my case.
Shane worked hard for me to counsel me in the best way and got me the full amount of my settlement that was possible.
Professional and always follow through — great experience.
Very knowledgeable — someone you want to have on your side!
Such a pleasure to deal with even with me living 4 hours away in a different state! Communication was excellent. Highly recommend!
Shane and Perla turned a typically painful and unfortunate process into an incredibly smooth experience!
This firm was a great experience. Chad was very professional, down-to-earth, relatable, and very informative.
Chad Camper and his staff are the greatest. If you need a great knowledgeable attorney, call Chad Camper.
Chad was extremely easy to work with and made the process smooth and effortless. He would constantly give me updates.
I hired Dean & Camper for a personal injury case. Chad Camper was a professional from the very beginning.
Dean Camper truly went above and beyond for me in my case for injuries sustained in a car accident.
Our case was settled in less than 2 months with much satisfaction. I recommend this office to anyone needing legal help. The customer service was great.
Highly recommend. Chad and his team were great to work with. Very pleased.
Dean and his team offer absolutely phenomenal service and support 24/7. Patient and very informative. Highly recommended! Best!
I was very satisfied with their work. They’re very nice people to work with and very prompt in everything they do.
I had a great experience with Dean and Camper!
Great doing business with you — most thorough and professional, very efficient. We thank you so much!
Chad was professional and great to work with. Highly recommend.
Great company! Chad has been amazing.
Started out with a big law firm that didn’t make me feel important. After 11 months I switched to these guys and quickly had resolution.
Chad and Amber were absolutely amazing during my horrific time. No question was too big or small. They always got back to me.
I had a great experience with Mr. Camper. He was very helpful and walked me through everything. So easy to work with — I would highly recommend them!
Great staff and gets the deal closed with satisfying outcomes.
Chad and the staff at Dean & Camper have been absolutely wonderful to work with. Any time I had a question they were available. I would highly recommend them to anyone needing representation!
Shane Dean made it less stressful on me. He is professional, responsive, explained every step clearly, and pushed back to get results...They didn’t just win my case—they took care of me throughout the entire process. Very impressed with the settlement and can’t recommend them enough!
Shane is fantastic! He. Does. Not. Sleep. Works his tail off to take care of his clients. I recommend him to everyone.
Chad went above and beyond and settled our case within 6 months and it was 6 figures. He fights for his clients and does a great job — love his assistant Amber too. Thanks guys!
I used Shane for a car accident I was involved in. He got me more money than I thought I would get and I feel like he represented me fantastic! I wouldn't hesitate to use him again or refer him.
Chad and Amber were amazing. They were in contact with me throughout the entire process. They far exceeded my expectations on every level. If you need a personal injury attorney, this is the one for you!
These are the attorneys you want on your side! My settlement was much larger than I expected, every call and email I sent was promptly returned. My Attorney, Shane Dean, was excellent to work with.
We had a wonderful experience working with Chad. The communication and follow up was wonderful, and we were very happy with our outcome! I would highly recommend this office.
Every one at the firm was extremely helpful throughout the whole process. They explained everything in detail and made sure to keep me updated! I highly recommend; they were great to work with!
Chad has his client's best interest at heart and has exceeded all my expectations. I would strongly recommend this law firm — you won't regret it.
Such an amazing team! They worked relentlessly to get me a settlement and never gave up! Chad was always 100% honest and always gave me the choice on any decision regarding the case. Truly an amazing attorney.
Answer calls promptly, keeps in touch — heck, one time Mr. Camper even gave me a ride to get my flat tire fixed! That's the kind of attorney he is.
Shane Dean seen my case through, thoroughly advised me along the way, promptly returned my calls from start to finish, & it felt more like I had a friend on my side sticking up for me!
I highly recommend Dean & Camper. Chad and his staff made sure I knew what was going on at all times. Most importantly, he cares about his clients’ health and their well being.
Great law firm! I’m grateful I found them.
Shane is awesome. He makes the process easy and personal. Highly recommend him.
Shane Dean was a wonderful attorney and the best one I’ve ever dealt with. He was patient, professional, and quick to respond.
I had a great experience working with this law firm on my injury case. They were professional, communicative, and made the process smooth and stress-free. I’m really happy with the outcome. I highly recommend them.
Calling Shane Dean was the best decision I could’ve made for my case.
Shane & the team helped me with a recent accident. Great working with them, and happy with the settlement.
Mr. Dean and his staff did a great professional job and got me and my family the settlement we deserve in less than 6 months! I really recommend him and his team.
If anyone needs a good lawyer he’s the best in town because he wins.
He is the best attorney I have ever had. Mr. Shane gets back to you as soon as he can, tells you the deal, and gets straight to the business. I will always go to him.
If you’re in need of a good lawyer, I recommend Shane Dean. Shane made sure that I received the best results with my case.
Dean and Camper will do a great job for you if you’re injured in a car accident. They have handled two cases of mine and I have been highly satisfied both times.
It was honestly so great to have Dean & Camper P.A. working on my case.
Shane worked hard for me to counsel me in the best way and got me the full amount of my settlement that was possible.
Professional and always follow through — great experience.
Very knowledgeable — someone you want to have on your side!
Such a pleasure to deal with even with me living 4 hours away in a different state! Communication was excellent. Highly recommend!
Shane and Perla turned a typically painful and unfortunate process into an incredibly smooth experience!
This firm was a great experience. Chad was very professional, down-to-earth, relatable, and very informative.
Chad Camper and his staff are the greatest. If you need a great knowledgeable attorney, call Chad Camper.
Chad was extremely easy to work with and made the process smooth and effortless. He would constantly give me updates.
I hired Dean & Camper for a personal injury case. Chad Camper was a professional from the very beginning.
Dean Camper truly went above and beyond for me in my case for injuries sustained in a car accident.
Our case was settled in less than 2 months with much satisfaction. I recommend this office to anyone needing legal help. The customer service was great.
Highly recommend. Chad and his team were great to work with. Very pleased.
Dean and his team offer absolutely phenomenal service and support 24/7. Patient and very informative. Highly recommended! Best!
I was very satisfied with their work. They’re very nice people to work with and very prompt in everything they do.
I had a great experience with Dean and Camper!
Great doing business with you — most thorough and professional, very efficient. We thank you so much!
Chad was professional and great to work with. Highly recommend.
Great company! Chad has been amazing.
Started out with a big law firm that didn’t make me feel important. After 11 months I switched to these guys and quickly had resolution.
Chad and Amber were absolutely amazing during my horrific time. No question was too big or small. They always got back to me.
I had a great experience with Mr. Camper. He was very helpful and walked me through everything. So easy to work with — I would highly recommend them!
Great staff and gets the deal closed with satisfying outcomes.
Chad and the staff at Dean & Camper have been absolutely wonderful to work with. Any time I had a question they were available. I would highly recommend them to anyone needing representation!
Shane Dean made it less stressful on me. He is professional, responsive, explained every step clearly, and pushed back to get results...They didn’t just win my case—they took care of me throughout the entire process. Very impressed with the settlement and can’t recommend them enough!
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