After a car accident, you may be left with injuries, medical bills, and property damage. If you’re wondering, “Can I sue someone for my car accident?”, the answer depends on several factors, including fault and negligence. In this guide, our Birmingham car accident lawyer explains who you can sue after a crash in Alabama.
Need immediate legal help? Call Collins Law LLC at (205) 588-1411 for a free consultation.
How Car Accident Lawsuits Work in Alabama
Before filing a lawsuit, it’s important to understand how personal injury claims work. In a lawsuit:
- The plaintiff (injured party) files a claim against the defendant (at-fault party).
- The lawsuit must prove negligence, meaning the defendant’s actions caused the accident.
- Damages may include medical bills, lost wages, vehicle repairs, and pain and suffering.
Now, let’s explore who can be held liable after a car accident in Alabama.
Who Can You Sue After a Car Accident?
1. The At-Fault Driver
The most common defendant is the other driver involved in the crash. If they were negligent—speeding, texting, or running a red light—you can sue them for damages. However, Alabama law follows a contributory negligence rule, meaning if you’re even 1% at fault, you may be unable to recover compensation.
2. The Vehicle Owner
If the at-fault driver was borrowing a car, you may be able to sue the owner, especially if they negligently allowed an unqualified driver to use their vehicle. Parents may also be liable for damages caused by their teen drivers.
3. The At-Fault Driver’s Employer
If you were hit by a company vehicle (such as a delivery truck or commercial vehicle), the employer might be responsible under vicarious liability laws. Businesses often carry larger insurance policies, which can help cover extensive medical costs.
4. Rideshare Companies (Uber & Lyft)
If an Uber or Lyft driver caused your accident, the company’s $1 million liability insurance policy may cover your damages. Rideshare claims can be complex, so working with an experienced Birmingham car accident lawyer is essential.
5. Trucking Companies
Semi-truck accidents often lead to severe injuries. In these cases, you may sue:
- The truck driver for negligent driving.
- The trucking company for improper maintenance or safety violations.
- The cargo company if improperly loaded cargo contributed to the crash.
6. The City, County, or State Government
You may have a claim against a government entity if your accident was caused by:
- Poor road conditions (potholes, debris, or inadequate maintenance)
- Faulty traffic signals
- Missing or obstructed road signs
- Dangerous roadway design
However, claims against the government have strict deadlines—you may have as little as six months to file.
7. The Vehicle Manufacturer
If a defective part (such as faulty brakes or airbags) caused your accident, the car manufacturer may be held liable under product liability laws.
What Should You Do After a Car Accident?
If you’ve been injured in a car accident, take these steps to protect your rights:
- Call 911 and report the crash.
- Seek medical attention, even if injuries seem minor.
- Document evidence—take photos, gather witness statements, and obtain a police report.
- Contact a Birmingham car accident lawyer before speaking with insurance companies.
Call Collins Law LLC for a Free Consultation
Navigating a car accident lawsuit can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. Attorney April H. Collins has extensive experience handling car accident, trucking accident, and wrongful death claims in Alabama.
Call (205) 588-1411 or schedule a free consultation with our experienced attorneys today to discuss your case.
