Question: The police report indicates I was at fault in a wreck. Is my case over?  

JASON: Just because the police report states you are at fault doesn’t necessarily mean that’s the whole story. We frequently challenge police reports. Remember, the officer did not witness the accident firsthand.

  At our law firm, many people come to us believing they will never receive compensation for their injuries solely based on what a police officer or state trooper wrote. That assumption is simply untrue.

  While the accident report has some influence, it is less significant than the analysis provided by a traffic accident investigator with the correct measurements, a PhD, and years of experience. Here is how I explain this to my clients. The primary role of law enforcement is to ensure everyone’s safety. They want to get the injured individuals to a hospital, manage traffic flow, and clear the roadway of any hazards. Determining fault is not their primary focus.

  These law enforcement officials may interview witnesses but often do not verify the accuracy of the statements. They also create a basic diagram of the accident scene, which is usually a rough approximation based on their assumptions about how the vehicles ended up.

  Now, the most important factor about an Alabama wreck is: DO NOT ADMIT ANY FAULT. In other words, do not be nice and try to share the blame. In our state, you will collect nothing if you are even 1% at fault.

  Here is my general advice. If you are in an accident in Alabama, call law enforcement. The law says in most cases, a report must be filed, so it is better to have them do it.

  Plus, be polite when dealing with law enforcement; they are there to assist you. Just keep in mind that their job is not to help you win your case.

  We help people who are hurt in all types of accidents. If you have questions, don’t hesitate to call us. The call will cost you nothing. We are proud to be called “ the lawyers near me ” in and around Tillmans Corner.

  Jason Steele 

Personal Injury Attorney in Mobile, AL

Talk to me for free at (251) 666-1212.

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