Let’s say you were changing lanes on I-65, and the car that was speeding in the lane next to you collided with your truck. If you get injured, who is at fault? And could you file a lawsuit based on negligence? This is an introduction to negligence laws in Alabama.
General Negligence Law
Negligence cases are the legal system’s attempt to determine who is to blame for injuries resulting from an accident. The first steps are figuring out if one person has a duty of care to another and whether he or she failed in fulfilling that duty. If so, that person might be liable for any injuries that result from their lack of care. In the example above, because the car was speeding, the driver of the car may be at fault.
Under Alabama law however, there is a doctrine known as “contributory negligence,†which can be a defense if the plaintiff, in this case you, contributed to accident. Let’s say you failed to use your blinker or look over your shoulder when you were changing lanes. If you were also negligent in the accident, this could bar recovery under the law.
Negligence Laws in Alabama
Each state has its own negligence laws based on their particular civil justice system. Negligence laws in Alabama are highlighted in the table below.
| Code Section | None |
| Comparative Negligence | - |
| Contributory Negligence-Limit to Plaintiff's Recovery | Plaintiff's negligence is a bar to recovery. Contributory negligence is an affirmative defense. (ARCP, Rule 8(c)) Jackson v. Waller, 410 So.2d 98 (1982) |
| Contribution Among Tortfeasors | No. Gobble v. Bradford, 147 So. 619 (1933); But yes if executed instrument with joint payees or indorsers, §7-3-116 |
| Uniform Act | No |
Negligence Cases
If you do take an accident case to court, there are several elements of a negligence case you must prove in order for the claim to be successful:
Filing a Negligence Claim? An Alabama Injury Attorney Can Help
You may be entitled to monetary compensation if you've been injured in a car accident, but Alabama has complex personal injury laws. Finding an Alabama attorney who understands the state's tortfeasor contribution rules can make all the difference. If you're dealing with a personal injury that merits legal recourse, it's in your best interests to contact an Alabama injury attorney.
