Frequently Asked Questions About Mobile Car Accident Claims
How Long Will It Take To Reach a Settlement?
Some claims settle in a few months. More serious or disputed claims can take much longer. The time it takes to reach a car accident settlement depends on several factors, including:
- The specifics of your case
- The seriousness of your injuries
- The available insurance coverage
- Whether the insurance company is willing to make a fair offer
It’s usually unwise to rush the process before you understand the full extent of your injuries, medical needs, lost income, and long-term damages. Our Mobile car accident lawyer can help gather the necessary evidence, calculate your losses, communicate with the insurance company, and pursue maximum compensation.
Should I Take an Initial Settlement Offer?
In most cases, you should not accept an initial settlement offer. Insurance companies often make early offers before the full cost of the crash is clear. They want to entice you to take a quick payout, even though it might not be in your best interest. You may not know how long you’ll need medical care, whether you can return to work, or how the injury could affect your life going forward.
Once you accept a settlement, you give up the right to seek more money later. Before signing anything, have a Mobile car accident lawyer review the offer and determine whether it covers the full extent of your losses.
Will My Car Accident Claim Go to Trial?
Most car accident claims settle before trial, but some cases do need to be filed in court. Whether your claim goes to trial depends on several factors, including whether the insurance company:
- Disputes fault
- Challenges the seriousness of your injuries
- Refuses to offer full and fair compensation
At Morris, Andrews, Talmadge & Driggers, LLC, we prepare every case with care and purpose. That preparation proves itself valuable during settlement negotiations and, when necessary, in the courtroom. If trial ends up being the right path for justice, our attorneys are ready to present your case clearly and fight for the compensation you deserve.
How Much Is My Claim Worth?
No attorney can honestly tell you what your case is worth without reviewing the facts. The value of your car accident claim depends on:
- The severity of your injuries
- Your medical expenses
- Your lost income
- Your future care needs
- The impact on your daily life
- The insurance coverage available
A serious crash could involve a wide range of damages, including:
- Emergency treatment
- Surgeries
- Rehabilitation
- Lost earning capacity
- Pain & suffering
- Emotional distress
- Property damage
Our Mobile car accident attorneys will look at the full picture, not only the bills you have today, but what is likely to be necessary in the future. Your claim needs to reflect the true impact of the accident on your life and future.
How Much Are Most Car Accident Settlements?
There is no “average” car accident settlement because every case is different. A minor injury claim will settle for far less than a case involving severe injuries or the tragic death of a loved one. Fault disputes, insurance coverage, medical documentation, and long-term damages can all affect the final value.
Online settlement calculators and averages are useless in the real world. The better question is not what most cases settle for, but what full and fair compensation looks like for you and your family.
What Do I Do if I Lost a Loved One in a Car Crash?
Losing a loved one suddenly is heart-wrenching. When you and your family are ready, it’s important to speak with a Mobile wrongful death lawyer who can help you determine the next steps.
In Alabama, a wrongful death lawsuit is generally brought by the personal representative of your loved one’s estate and must be filed within 2 years of their death (Alabama Code §§ 6-5-410(a) and 6-2-38(a)). These cases are different from ordinary injury claims, and the legal process can be difficult to face while you’re grieving. Morris, Andrews, Talmadge & Driggers, LLC can help your family seek accountability with compassion and discretion.
How Much Does It Cost To Hire a Car Accident Attorney in Mobile?
It costs nothing up front to hire Morris, Andrews, Talmadge & Driggers, LLC. We handle car accident injury cases on a contingency fee basis, which means you don’t pay attorney’s fees unless we win compensation for you.
This allows injured people and their families to get experienced legal help without worrying about hourly fees or upfront costs. Your consultation is also free and confidential.
If you’re unsure whether you have a case, it’s better to ask than to guess. A quick conversation can help you understand your rights, your options, and what support may be available.
Is Alabama a No-Fault Car Accident State?
No. Alabama is not a no-fault car accident state. Alabama follows a fault-based system, which means the person who caused the crash can be held financially responsible for the injuries and damages they caused. However, Alabama also follows a strict contributory negligence rule, which means that if you share any fault for the accident—any at all—you can’t recover compensation.
Do You Have To Have a Police Report To File an Insurance Claim in Alabama?
You may still be able to file an insurance claim without a police report, but having one can make your claim much stronger. A police report creates an official record of the crash, including:
- When & where it happened
- Who was involved
- What damage or injuries were reported
- Whether citations were issued
Insurance companies often rely on police reports when reviewing fault and damages. Without one, the insurer may question what happened or give more weight to the other driver’s version of events. If you were hurt in a crash, calling law enforcement and making sure the accident is documented are the safest steps you can take.
How Do I Get a Car Crash Police Report in Alabama?
You can request an Alabama crash report through the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency online or in person at an ALEA Driver License Office for a fee of $15.
If your crash was handled by the Mobile Police Department, you may also request the accident report online, in person, or by mail. You’ll need a case number or the exact location of the crash, and you’ll need to pay a $15 report fee.
Car Accident Attorneys Serving Mobile, Baldwin County & Southwest Alabama
The Mobile car accident lawyers at Morris, Andrews, Talmadge & Driggers, LLC, understand how overwhelming the aftermath of a car crash can be. If you’ve been injured, you need to know that you aren’t alone and not without options.
In Alabama, a traffic crash is reported every 3 minutes and 39 seconds, according to ALDOT’s Crash Facts. Each and every one of those crashes involves real people who are facing pain, confusion, and financial uncertainty as a result. But when you’re hurt because someone else was careless behind the wheel, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.
To make sure that you are getting the most out of your claim, you need a car accident lawyer in Mobile who knows the community, understands what you’re facing, and has the experience and determination to secure full and fair compensation. That’s Morris, Andrews, Talmadge & Driggers, LLC.
Were you or a loved one injured in a car crash? Don’t wait to get help. Contact our dedicated Mobile car accident lawyers online or at 844-654-6228 to schedule a FREE and confidential case evaluation. We handle car accident injury cases on a contingency fee basis. You don’t pay unless we win.
130+ Years of Combined Experience & Millions of Dollars Recovered
At Morris, Andrews, Talmadge & Driggers, LLC, we believe that every client deserves practiced and compassionate representation because the outcomes of their claim could shape the rest of their lives. Our seasoned attorneys have more than 130 years of combined legal experience and have recovered millions of dollars for injured victims throughout Alabama and beyond.
In 2023 alone, there were 975 precious lives lost in fatal crashes across the state. That means someone lost a loved one to a car accident every 8 hours and 55 minutes. These tragedies are far too common, which makes trusted legal counsel all the more important as you fight for full and fair compensation.
Our Alabama roots run deep, and our team understands the stakes when your health, income, and future are on the line. We handle car accident cases every day, and we know how to approach each one with a shrewd legal strategy and heartfelt care. We’re familiar with the local courts and insurance adjusters and understand the challenges unique to car crash cases in Mobile and Baldwin County.
The outcome of your claim depends mightily on who you have fighting for you. Don’t settle for anything less than the compassionate advocates and proven litigators here at Morris, Andrews, Talmadge & Driggers, LLC.
What To Do If You’re Injured in a Car Crash
What you do in the minutes, hours, and days after a crash could impact the rest of your recovery—physically, financially, and legally. Our car accident attorneys in Mobile often meet with clients who unknowingly made mistakes early on because they weren’t aware of how to protect themselves. Here’s what to do:
- Call 911 and make sure a police report is created. Even a minor crash should be officially documented.
- Get medical help, even if you think you’re okay. Some injuries don’t show symptoms right away.
- Take photos & jot down details, including nearby traffic signs, weather and road conditions, and how vehicles were positioned at the time of the crash.
- Avoid posting online or discussing the crash publicly because anything you share could be misconstrued and used to cast doubt on your claim.
- Contact a Mobile car accident attorney before making a statement or speaking at length with any insurance adjusters. They are trained to minimize payouts, not to protect you.
We know that after suffering a serious injury or losing a loved one it’s hard to think clearly. If you’re unable to check every box, don’t panic. Our team can help you gather evidence and advise you on the best course of action. Contact us as soon as possible to schedule your FREE and confidential consultation.
Who’s Responsible?
Depending on the circumstances, a number of parties may be at fault in a crash: truck drivers, distracted or drunk drivers, speeding motorists, careless motorcyclists or bicyclists, and even pedestrians.
According to the Alabama Crash Stats from 2023:
- 67% of all fatal motorcycle crashes were caused by the motorcyclist.
- 37% of all bicycle crashes were caused by the bicyclist.
- 57% of all fatal pedestrian crashes were caused by pedestrian behavior.
Unfortunately, fault is not always clear-cut. And that’s especially important in Alabama, which follows a pure contributory negligence rule. Under this standard, if you’re found even 1% at fault, you could be barred from recovering any damages at all.
How We Prove Fault
We leave no stone unturned when developing a case. From the moment we begin, we work diligently to uncover the facts and build a claim that clearly shows who was at fault. We will:
- Analyze police reports & crash reconstructions
- Gather video footage & black box data
- Interview witnesses & accident scene experts
- Use your medical records to link your injuries to the crash
This process isn’t easy, but it is integral to the success of your claim. To get the legal assistance you need and deserve, contact our team and set up a FREE case evaluation.
Notable Verdicts & Settlements
Common Causes of Car Accidents
In Mobile and throughout Baldwin County, certain types of dangerous driving show up again and again in the cases we handle. While every crash is different, the data paints a clear picture.
In 2023, there were 60 fatalities tied to distracted driving alone. Alabamians face more than a two-in-five chance of being involved in an injury or fatal crash over their lifetime. Here are some of the most common causes we see:
- Distracted driving (including texting—texting drivers are 23x more likely to crash)
- Speeding (the leading factor in fatal crashes)
- Failure to yield (the top cause of non-fatal crashes in Alabama)
- Drunk or impaired driving
- Tailgating & aggressive driving
- Drowsy or fatigued driving
- Defective vehicle parts
Common Car Crash Injuries
Car accidents can cause more than physical pain. They can also affect your ability to work, care for your family, and enjoy your daily life. At Morris, Andrews, Talmadge & Driggers, LLC, we help clients who are dealing with:
- Whiplash & soft tissue damage
- Concussions & traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries & paralysis
- Broken bones & orthopedic trauma
- Internal bleeding & organ damage
- Facial injuries & disfigurement
- Psychological trauma such as PTSD
In 2023 alone, someone was injured in an Alabama traffic crash every 13 minutes and 28 seconds. This is a staggering reminder of how common car accidents are and how important it is for victims and their families to have a means to secure compensation.
Types of Damages in a Car Accident Claim
A serious car accident can change everything in an instant. Suddenly, you’re trying to recover from painful injuries while also figuring out how to pay the bills while you’re unable to work, and somehow also take care of your family. It’s overwhelming and exhausting.
And if the crash claimed the life of someone you cherish, the devastation cuts even deeper. Amid your grief, you’re facing funeral costs, countless questions, and a future that looks nothing like what you’d planned. No amount of money can undo the damage done, but compensation can ease some of the financial burden and give you breathing room while you heal.
Potential damages in a car accident or wrongful death claim may include:
- Emergency medical treatment & hospital care
- Follow-up visits, surgeries, physical therapy & rehabilitation
- In-home care
- Lost income & diminished earning capacity
- Physical discomfort
- Emotional distress
- Property damage
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Help with household tasks or caregiving needs
- Funeral & burial expenses
- Loss of financial support & services
- Loss of love, companionship & guidance
With experienced Mobile car accident injury attorneys by your side, you don’t have to face the insurance company alone. At Morris, Andrews, Talmadge & Driggers, LLC, we fight to hold negligent drivers accountable and pursue the maximum compensation you’re entitled to under Alabama law.
Is It Worth Getting an Attorney for a Car Accident in Mobile?
Yes! We’ve seen too many Alabamians settle for far less than they deserve because they didn’t have legal help early on. Insurance companies want to minimize what they pay out. Your well-being isn’t their priority, but it is ours. A seasoned car accident attorney in Mobile can shift the balance in your favor by:
- Preserving critical evidence before it disappears
- Answering your questions & making sure you understand your rights & options
- Calculating long-term damages & not just your current bills
- Standing firm when the insurer tries to rush or reduce your claim
- Preparing your case for court if a fair settlement isn’t offered
Hiring the right attorney can mean the difference between getting by and getting justice. With a proven and compassionate team behind you, you’ll have the guidance, strategy, and support needed to protect your future. Contact us today for a FREE consultation and find out how we can help you take the next step.
Testimonials From Former Clients
Mr.Driggers is a wonderful Lawyer that knows the law, he helped me when I had no idea in my situation where to start and what to do, he worked with me hands on and got the best results for me in my case. It was a privilege to get to know him as my lawyer and a friend. If you need legal representation call him you will be satisfied.
I would highly recommend Cory Driggers. He kept me informed all during my case. I never felt left in the dark. He was always straightforward with me. I can’t express how impressed I was with him.
Cory was absolutely fantastic. He settled my case beyond what I could even imagine. Not only was he very knowledgeable concerning the law, he was available whenever we needed him, Cory was also so kind and courteous to us at all times. During the time since my case ended I have called on Cory several times to ask questions related to situations I have had going on and he has always been available to help me. I would recommend Cory without a second thought to any friend, family member, co-worker or acquaintance.
“I was pleased with their work and the outcome of my case.”
“Never in a million years did I believe that these attorneys would do everything possible to seek justice.”
The staff handled my case in a prompt and professional manner. They returned my calls in a timely fashion and was always prepared to answer any questions. Furthermore, Attorney Driggers is a Christian man and first class professional. I am certainly happy that i was represented by this Law Firm.
I would highly recommend Cory Driggers. He kept me informed all during my case. I never felt left in the dark. He was always straightforward with me . I can’t express how impressed I was with him.
Love, love, love these people! When no one out there seems to care, let me tell you that this group right here will fight tooth and nail for you.
“Our family is so thankful for Mark, Dan and their entire team. Every step of the way they made sure we were comfortable and understood every aspect of our case. It was apparent that our interest was …”
Cory Driggers represented my daughter following an car accident. He showed real genuine care for her and the case. He and his staff worked to get all of the medical bills gathered and also to get them decreased. Cory kept us updated and contacted my daughter when decisions needed to be made. Ultimately, Cory got what my daughter deserved for her injuries and my daughter was completely satisfied. I would recommend Cory to anyone that is looking for a good Christian attorney. Thanks Cory for your help!
Attorney Driggers and his team did a wonderful job with my case. They were professional and pleasant. They were patient with me and answered all my questions. They addressed all my concerns from the first conversation to the last. I would highly recommend him to anyone needing an attorney.
I would recommend Mr. Driggers to anybody needing legal help him and his staff first of all are very nice to you and act like they are very understanding to your needs. He talked to me on the phone like he knew me all my life and that really mattered to me. When we had our hearing he treated me like he had already met me and he hadn’t, I just really loved him and have already been telling people about him and his office.
Joey (and his team) was extremely helpful in a time when we did not know what to do. His professional approach gave us assurance while he settled our case.
Hired Joseph Morris to handle my car accident and he did a great job at handling the case and explained the process as the case went. I would highly recommend him.
“I’ve had Joey take care of three separate cases and two for other family members. The service was always great and he was always there to answer my questions no matter how many times I called. Great m …”
Cory and his staff are very professional and make you feel at ease whether it is by phone or in person. My case was solved quickly and very efficiently. Thanks for everything!!
How Long Do You Have To Make a Claim After a Car Crash in Alabama?
Under Alabama Law, most personal injury claims (including car accident cases) must be filed within 2 years of the crash. This deadline is known as the statute of limitations. If you miss it, your case may be dismissed, and you could lose the right to pursue compensation entirely, no matter how valid your claim may be.
There are very few exceptions to this rule, which is why it’s so important to speak with a car accident injury lawyer in Mobile as soon as possible. Acting quickly allows your attorney to investigate the accident, preserve evidence, and file within the necessary time limits.
If the crash resulted in the death of someone you love, the same 2-year deadline typically applies to a wrongful death claim, although it usually begins on the date of passing rather than the date of the accident. Your lawyer can help determine the exact deadlines that apply to your situation and ensure your rights are protected from the start.
Contact a Mobile Car Accident Lawyer Today for FREE
Were you injured in a car accident in Mobile? At Morris, Andrews, Talmadge & Driggers, LLC, we know that you and your loved ones are more than statistics. If you’ve been seriously injured or lost someone you love in a car accident, you may be struggling through one of the most difficult seasons of your life.
When you turn to our Mobile car accident lawyers, we’ll provide thoughtful legal guidance, honest answers, and strong advocacy as you pursue justice. We proudly serve clients throughout Mobile, Baldwin County, and across southern Alabama.
Call 844-654-6228 or contact us online today for a FREE and confidential consultation. We are ready to fight for you!
