Did you know that according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 37 people die each day in the United States because of drinking and driving? Getting into a car accident is tough, but being hit by a drunk driver makes it even harder to deal with.
Drunk driving accident lawyer Brian R. Hochman says that knowing what steps to take immediately after the incident can help protect your rights and guarantee your safety.
Stay as calm as possible and take the following steps to ensure your safety and well-being and protect your legal rights.
Ensure Safety at the Scene
After being struck by a drunk driver, your main focus should be on making sure everyone is safe at the scene. After the collision, check yourself and any passengers for injuries. If it’s safe, move your vehicle to the side of the road to prevent further accidents. Switch on your hazard lights to let other drivers know what is going on.
After making sure that you and those around you are safe, take a moment to look around and evaluate the situation. If you come across any downed power lines, fires, or other dangers, please stay at a safe distance and reach out to emergency services right away. Stay calm and collected during this chaotic time.
According to the lawyers from www.allinjuryattorney.com, you should reach out to anyone who witnessed the accident and kindly request their contact details. Their statements can be quite helpful when dealing with insurance claims or legal issues. Do not forget to capture some photos of the scene, showing the damages to both vehicles and any important road conditions.
Exchange Information With the Driver
To exchange information with the driver involved in the collision, gather their license, insurance details, and contact information. Request the driver to show their license so you can write down their name, license number, and address.
Collect their insurance information, including the insurance company’s name and policy number, and exchange contact information, such as phone numbers and email addresses.
Provide your details to the other driver. Offer your driver’s license, insurance information, and contact details. Provide clear and current information to help make the insurance claims process easier.
Take note of the make, model, and license plate number of the other vehicle involved in the accident. This information can really help when you are filing a police report and an insurance claim.
Exchanging information immediately is necessary to resolve legal and insurance matters efficiently. It sets the groundwork for a smoother post-accident process.
Contact a Legal Professional
Consider reaching out to a legal professional for guidance and support after being hit by a drunk driver. A legal professional can help handle the complex legal processes that might arise after such an incident. They can help you understand your rights, assess the strength of your case, and determine the best course of action to seek compensation for damages or injuries.
Consulting with a legal professional can assure you that you receive the necessary guidance to proceed with legal actions. They can assist you in gathering evidence, negotiating with insurance companies, and representing your interests in court if needed. A legal professional can help you understand the potential outcomes of your case and advise you on the best strategies to achieve a favorable resolution.
Remember that time is of the essence in legal matters, so it’s important to reach out to a legal professional after being involved in an accident with a drunk driver.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Your health should be your top priority following such a traumatic event. Some injuries might not show up right away, even if you feel okay at first. Some injuries may not be immediately obvious. It is important to see medical professionals to take care of your health and make sure any injuries are recorded for insurance or legal reasons.
Head to the nearest hospital or urgent care facility as soon as possible. Let the medical staff know that you were involved in a car accident caused by a drunk driver. They’ll conduct a thorough examination to assess any potential injuries. Remember, adrenaline can mask pain, so you should get a proper evaluation.
Report the Incident to Authorities
Upon arriving at the hospital or urgent care facility, quickly report the incident to the authorities.
Inform them that you have been involved in a car accident caused by a drunk driver. Provide details such as the location of the accident, the time it occurred, and any other relevant information you can remember. Report the incident immediately to ensure the authorities can begin their investigation right away.
When speaking to the authorities, provide an accurate account of what happened. Mention any injuries you have sustained and any medical treatment you’re receiving. The police will document the details of the accident and may conduct tests to determine if the other driver was under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Cooperate with the authorities to build a strong case against the drunk driver. Your report will also help prevent the individual from causing harm to others in the future. Remember to keep a copy of the police report for your records and for any legal proceedings that may follow.
Conclusion
After being hit by a drunk driver, it is important to recognize that you have rights and are entitled to seek justice for the pain caused by the reckless behavior of the driver. Don’t hesitate to seek help with a personal injury lawyer; their expertise and experience can greatly influence the outcome of your case.
