The aftermath of a car accident can be stressful and confusing. If the accident occurred on private property, you might wonder how the location affects liability. Alabama’s laws on car accidents on private property may seem intricate, but understanding your rights and responsibilities can make a significant difference in how you pursue compensation for your losses.
Determining Fault for a Car Accident on Private Property
In Alabama, determining fault in a car accident hinges on the legal concept of negligence. Whether the accident occurs on private property or a public road, the negligent party whose carelessness or recklessness led to the accident is legally liable for any related losses.
Proving liability involves demonstrating that the other party owed you a duty of care, breached this duty, and this breach directly resulted in the accident causing your injuries. The duty of care applies regardless of the location of the collision, making the process of determining fault similar whether the crash occurred on private or public land.
Does Car Insurance Cover Accidents on Private Property?
A common misconception is that car insurance does not cover accident-related personal injuries or car damage on private property. That is not true. Most car insurance policies cover accidents on private property, just as they would cover accidents on public roads.
However, the insurance claim process may be more complex. For instance, if the accident occurred in a private parking lot, the owner’s premises liability insurance might also come into play. Handling these cases requires knowledge and skill, underscoring the importance of working with an experienced Alabama car accident attorney.
Filing a Claim for a Car Accident on Private Property
If you suffer injuries in a car accident on private property in Alabama, you can file a claim with your insurance company or the other party’s insurer, depending on the circumstances. Alabama follows a traditional fault system, meaning the at-fault party’s insurance typically covers the injuries and losses.
One of the most important steps you can take after an accident on private property is to seek immediate medical attention.
Although the process may seem straightforward, complications can arise. For instance, the insurance company might dispute the claim or offer a settlement that does not fully cover your losses. When that happens, the assistance of a legal professional is essential.
Contact Our Alabama Car Accident Attorneys Today
If you have suffered injuries in a car accident on private property in Alabama due to another party’s negligence, you could be entitled to compensation. The experienced car accident attorneys at Morris, King & Hodge, P.C., have a thorough understanding of Alabama’s car accident laws and can handle the complexities of pursuing your claim.
We will help you understand your legal rights, gather evidence to support your claim, negotiate with insurance companies, and, if necessary, represent you in court to fight for the compensation you deserve.
Contact us today for a free consultation to learn more about your legal options.
