Posted in Uncategorized on September 4, 2025
Should You Call the Police or 911 After a Car Accident in Alabama?
Car accidents can happen in an instant, leaving drivers shaken and unsure of what to do next. One of the most common questions people ask is: Should you call the police or 911 after a car accident?
The short answer is yes—contacting law enforcement or emergency services is almost always the right step after a crash in Alabama. Here’s why, and what you need to know about when and how to make that call.
When to Call 911 After a Car Accident
You should dial 911 immediately if:
-
Someone is injured or appears to need medical attention
-
A vehicle is disabled and blocking traffic
-
The accident involves multiple cars or significant damage
-
There is a fire, fuel leak, or other dangerous condition
Calling 911 brings both emergency medical services and law enforcement to the scene. This ensures that victims get urgent medical care and that the crash is officially documented.
When to Call the Police (Non-Emergency Line)
Not every car accident requires an ambulance, but even minor accidents should still be reported to the police. Alabama law requires drivers to notify law enforcement if:
-
The crash causes injury or death
-
There is property damage of $500 or more
If no one is hurt and the vehicles are drivable, you can call the local police department’s non-emergency number to report the accident. An officer may come to the scene, or they may instruct you to file a report later.
Why Reporting an Accident Matters
Calling the police isn’t just about following the law—it also protects your rights. A police report can:
-
Provide an official record of the accident
-
Help establish who was at fault
-
Support your insurance claim
-
Serve as key evidence if you pursue a personal injury lawsuit
Without a police report, it can become your word against the other driver’s, making it much harder to prove your case.
What If You Don’t Call the Police After an Accident?
Failing to report an accident when required by law can result in penalties or fines. More importantly, it can jeopardize your ability to recover compensation for your injuries. Insurance companies often deny or undervalue claims if no police report exists.
When to Contact a Car Accident Lawyer
After calling 911 or the police, your next call should be to a lawyer, especially if:
-
You were injured in the crash
-
Your vehicle sustained significant damage
-
The insurance company is pressuring you to settle quickly
-
Fault is being disputed
Because Alabama follows a contributory negligence rule, even being found 1% at fault could prevent you from recovering compensation. A skilled Huntsville car accident attorney can protect your rights and fight for the recovery you deserve.
FAQs: Calling the Police After an Accident
Do I always have to call the police after an accident in Alabama?
Yes, if there are injuries or property damage over $500. For very minor fender-benders with no damage or injuries, you may not be legally required, but it’s still strongly recommended.
Will the police always come to the scene?
Not always—sometimes they may instruct you to file a report online or at the station. But you should still make the call to document the accident.
Can I still file a claim without a police report?
It’s possible, but it’s much harder to prove. Insurance companies are more likely to deny claims without an official report.
Talk to a Huntsville Car Accident Lawyer Today
At Conchin, Cole, Jordan & Sherrod, we’ve helped countless Alabama accident victims navigate the aftermath of car crashes. If you were injured in a collision, don’t face the insurance companies alone.
📞 Call us today for a free consultation with an experienced Huntsville car accident lawyer and get the guidance you need.