Alabama § 32-5-171 - Arrest Without Warrant; Issuance of Traffic Citation.
Full text of Alabama Code of Alabama § 32-5-171 — Arrest Without Warrant; Issuance of Traffic Citation., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 32-5-171. Arrest Without Warrant; Issuance of Traffic Citation.
(a) A law enforcement officer as defined in Section 36-21-40, may arrest, at the scene of a traffic accident, any driver of a vehicle involved in the accident if upon personal investigation, including information from eyewitnesses, the officer has reasonable grounds to believe that the person by violating Section 32-5A-191 contributed to the accident. He or she may arrest such a person without a warrant although he or she did not personally see the violation.
(b) A law enforcement officer, as defined in Section 36-21-40, subsequent to a traffic accident, may issue a traffic citation to a driver of a vehicle involved in the accident when, based on personal investigation, the officer has prima facie evidence demonstrating grounds to believe that the person has committed any offense under Chapter 5, 5A, 6, 7, or 7A of Title 32.
Source: official Alabama text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Alabama § 32-5-171
What does Code of Alabama § 32-5-171 cover?
Section 32-5-171 ("Arrest Without Warrant; Issuance of Traffic Citation.") is part of the Code of Alabama, the codified statutory law of Alabama. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Alabama § 32-5-171?
A common citation format is "Code of Alabama § 32-5-171" (Alabama). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Alabama law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Alabama official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Alabama attorney.
How does Alabama § 32-5-171 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Alabama can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Alabama.