If another driver wrongfully blames you for a car accident, you may feel frustrated and unsure what to do next. The other driver may be mistaken, making a frivolous claim or relying on an incorrect accident report.

Incorrect Accident Reports

In Alabama, police officers investigate accidents and create Alabama Uniform Traffic Crash Reports. These reports often assign a "primary contributing unit" to indicate which driver they believe caused the crash. However, this does not determine legal responsibility.

Officers usually don't witness the crash firsthand. Instead, they rely on driver and witness statements, which can lead to mistakes. For example, an officer may wrongly conclude that you ran a red light if a witness provides incorrect information. These errors can unfairly shift blame, but they do not decide fault in court. Juries determine liability, and Alabama law generally treats police reports as inadmissible hearsay, with some exceptions.

How to Protect Yourself If Another Driver Files a Lawsuit Against You

If another driver falsely accuses you of causing a crash, take these steps to defend yourself:

• Collect witness contact information;
• Take photos and videos of the accident scene;
• Review the police report for errors;
• Contact your insurance company immediately, and
• Hire a personal injury attorney to fight back if you are injured. 

Your insurance company should provide legal defense if you have liability coverage. However, your defense attorney may not file counterclaims against the other driver, so you may need a separate attorney to pursue your case if you suffered harm due to the wreck. Legal action against the at-fault driver may strengthen your defense and help you recover damages for your injuries.

Get Help Before It's Too Late 

If another driver wrongly takes legal action against you for a crash you didn't cause, act now to protect yourself. At Hobbs Law, we fight for the truth and protect clients from being unfairly blamed.

Call Hobbs Law at 205-683-2892 for a free consultation. If you already have a defense attorney, get their permission before seeking additional representation. Don't be a scapegoat—fight back today!