Drunk driving is 100% preventable, making it a primary reason why it can be so frustrating to sustain injuries from a person who was driving under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol. Being in a car accident involving a drunk driver can be incredibly traumatic. Not only may victims experience physical injuries and pain from an accident, their mental health may also suffer. If you have been injured at the hands of someone who was driving under the influence, not only may they be required to face consequences of DUI charges, but also civil claims brought forth by a victim. Here are some steps you may take should you find yourself in an accident caused by a drunk driver:
Step One: Do Not Leave the Scene
The minutes following a car accident can be incredibly disorienting, especially if you have been injured. It you are able to, it’s critical for you to gather as much information as possible. In addition, take care when speaking with the other driver or police officer to not incriminate yourself by taking fault in the accident. If you notice that the person driving the other vehicle appears to be under the influence, contact the police immediately. They may be charged with a DUI as a result. Make sure, if you are able, that you do the following at the scene following an accident:
- Do Not Leave the Scene
- Contact the police and complete a police report
- Take Photographs
- Ask for witness information
- Contact 911 for emergency medical care
Step Two: Seek Medical Care
Even if you do not believe you are injured, it’s important to seek medical attention. You will want to make sure that you are medically cleared of any unknown injuries by a physician. Medical attention is one of the most important needs a car accident victim will have following a crash. If you were lucky enough to not notice any signs of injury, you may be tempted to go about your day. Despite the urge to do so, ensuring that your doctor has first looked you over can be important. Sometimes, symptoms from injuries may not present themselves for days or may go unnoticed. This can not only be dangerous, it can also make it far more difficult to prove your accident case. The documentation produced from your medical care can provide a key piece of evidence in proving that you suffered damages at the hands of the drunk driver.
Step Three: Determine if Legal Action is Necessary
If you were injured in an accident, and believe that the drunk driver who hit you can be held responsible, you will want to consult with an attorney. Many provide prospective clients with complimentary consultations so that they may review cases and determine if accident victims have the grounds to pursue a claim.
Step Four: Gather as Much Evidence as Possible
From the start it can be incredibly helpful to gather as much evidence as possible. Gathering evidence early on can be beneficial because it can be much more challenging to gather evidence once too much time has passed. Evidence is key to ensuring a successful outcome in a car accident case. Not only might it help to prove the key elements of a personal injury case, it is key in valuing your specific case.
Step Five: Keep Clear Records
Clear and concise records can make all the difference. Not only will it make it easier for an attorney to decipher them, the more you have, the easier it may be to build your injury case. Keep and medical bills or receipts that can help to prove the financial impact the accident has had on you.
If you or someone you love has been injured at the hands of a drunk driver, you could be left to pick up the pieces for some time to come. As a result, you may require the help of an attorney to support you in the legal recourse you seek.
Source: Drunk Driving Attorney Asbury Park, Rispoli & Borneo, P.C.