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Being involved in a car accident is a traumatic experience, and it can be even more devastating if the crash was caused by a drunk driver. The actions of an impaired driver can lead to severe injuries, emotional distress, and financial burdens.
If you find yourself in this unfortunate situation, it’s important to know the steps to take to protect your health, legal rights, and potential compensation. Here’s what you should do if you experience a drunk driving accident.
1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention
The first and most important step after any accident is to seek medical attention. Even if you feel fine, some injuries may not be immediately apparent, such as internal bleeding, concussions, or soft tissue injuries. Getting checked by a medical professional ensures that any injuries are diagnosed and treated promptly, which is crucial for your health and for documenting your injuries for legal purposes.
2. Call the Police
After ensuring your safety, the next step is to call the police. A police report is a critical piece of evidence in any car accident, especially one involving a drunk driver. The responding officers will assess the situation, gather information, and likely administer a field sobriety test or breathalyzer to the driver suspected of being intoxicated.
This documentation can be vital for your case, as it helps establish the other driver’s impairment as the cause of the accident.
3. Gather Evidence at the Scene
If you’re able to do so, collect as much evidence as possible at the scene of the accident. This includes taking photos of the vehicles involved, any visible injuries, the accident scene, and any relevant road conditions or signage. If there are witnesses, ask for their contact information and a brief statement of what they saw. All of this information can be crucial in building a strong case against the drunk driver.
4. Exchange Information
Exchange information with the other driver, including names, contact details, driver’s license numbers, and insurance information. However, be cautious in your interactions—avoid discussing the accident details or admitting any fault, as these conversations could be used against you later. Let the authorities handle the investigation, and focus on gathering the necessary information.
5. Report the Accident to Your Insurance Company
Notify your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible. Provide them with all the details and evidence you’ve collected, but stick to the facts and avoid speculation. Your insurer will begin the claims process and can help you navigate the next steps. Be aware that insurance companies, even your own, may try to minimize payouts, so it’s important to have all your documentation in order.
6. Contact a Personal Injury Attorney
One of the most important steps you can take after being injured by a drunk driver is to contact a personal injury attorney. An experienced attorney can guide you through the complex legal process, help you understand your rights, and advocate for the compensation you deserve. This may include compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. A lawyer can also handle negotiations with insurance companies and represent you in court if necessary.
7. Keep Detailed Records
Throughout your recovery and legal process, keep detailed records of everything related to the accident. This includes medical bills, receipts for out-of-pocket expenses, documentation of missed work and lost wages, and a journal of your physical and emotional recovery. These records will be essential in demonstrating the impact of the accident on your life and in calculating the compensation you may be entitled to.
8. Follow Your Doctor’s Advice
Finally, be sure to follow all medical advice and attend all follow-up appointments. Not only is this crucial for your recovery, but it also demonstrates that you are taking your injuries seriously, which can be important in your legal case. Failing to follow medical advice can be used against you by the defense to argue that your injuries are not as severe as claimed.
Let Our Experienced Attorneys Fight for the Compensation You Deserve!
Being injured by a drunk driver can have life-altering consequences, but taking the right steps after the accident can protect your rights and help you secure the compensation you deserve. If you’ve been injured in a drunk driving accident, don’t hesitate to reach out to a qualified attorney who can guide you through the process and fight for your best interests.
Reach out to Gulf South Law Firm today at (228) 231-3989 to learn more.